Question 70

The Correct Answer is B **Why option B ("6 months") is correct:** According to Coast Guard regulations (specifically referencing 46 CFR 199.170(a)(2)), regulations for launching and maneuvering of free-fall lifeboats state that unless an extension has been granted by the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI), a free-fall lifeboat must be lowered into the water and launched with its assigned crew at least once every **6 months**. This requirement ensures that the crew is proficient in the emergency launching procedure. **Why each of the other options is incorrect:** * **A) 3 months:** While drills are often conducted monthly, the regulation for physically launching the free-fall lifeboat into the water with the crew is not mandated every 3 months. This interval is too frequent based on the minimum regulatory requirement. * **C) 1 year:** Launching the free-fall lifeboat only once per year is the allowed frequency only if the OCMI has specifically granted an extension. In the absence of an extension (as stipulated in the question), 1 year is insufficient. * **D) 2 years:** This interval is too infrequent and does not meet the minimum regulatory requirements for launching free-fall lifeboats, regardless of whether an extension is granted or not.