Question 271 Deck Safety

70% to pass

You are approaching another vessel and see that she has the signal flag "F" hoisted. What should you do?

A Stop your vessel instantly.
B Continue on your present course since the vessel is signaling for a pilot.
C Change course to keep clear of the vessel because she is maneuvering with difficulty.
D Attempt to call the vessel on VHF radiotelephone because she is disabled.
AI Explanation

The correct answer is D) Attempt to call the vessel on VHF radiotelephone because she is disabled. The signal flag "F" indicates that the vessel is "Disabled and requires assistance." According to maritime regulations, when a vessel displays this signal, other vessels should attempt to contact the disabled vessel on VHF radio to offer assistance or determine how they can safely pass by. Stopping instantly (A) or continuing on course (B) would not be the appropriate response, as the disabled vessel may need help or need the other vessel to keep clear (C). Attempting to communicate by radio is the correct action to take in this situation.

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