Question 4141 Deck General

The correct answer is C) decrease speed. In heavy weather conditions, particularly with the bow into the seas, decreasing speed is the appropriate action to prevent pounding. Pounding can occur when the bow of the vessel rises up and then crashes back down into the waves, which can be damaging to the vessel and its cargo. Reducing speed will lower the impact of the waves on the bow, helping to mitigate the pounding effect. The other options are not the best course of action in this situation. Securing loose gear (A) is a good general practice, but does not directly address the pounding issue. Changing course to an 85 degree angle (B) may not be feasible or practical in heavy seas. Increasing speed (D) would actually exacerbate the pounding problem.