Question 557 Deck Safety

The correct answer is A) the towing vessel should slip first. The reasoning behind this is that the towing vessel is responsible for the safety of the tow. In an emergency situation, the towing vessel should slip the tow first to ensure the safety of its own crew and vessel. This allows the towing vessel to maneuver freely and avoid any potential hazards or dangers. The vessel being towed, on the other hand, should only slip the tow if the towing vessel is unable to do so or if there are special circumstances that warrant the towed vessel slipping first. The other options are incorrect because B) the vessel towed should not slip first, as that would leave the towing vessel at risk. C) Slipping simultaneously is not the recommended procedure, as the towing vessel should take the lead. D) Either vessel may slip first is also incorrect, as the towing vessel has the primary responsibility for the safety of the tow.