Question 28

The Correct Answer is C ### Explanation for Option C (special flashing light) **The special flashing light is correct because it is a mandatory, identifying light displayed forward on power-driven vessels engaged in a common Inland River operation.** 1. **Inland Rules Mandate:** Under the Inland Navigation Rules (Rule 23(e)), a power-driven vessel pushing ahead or towing alongside on the Western Rivers (or waters specified by the Commandant) must display a **special flashing light**. 2. **Visibility and Purpose:** This light is amber, flashes 50–70 times per minute, and is placed forward. It is visible over a horizontal arc of 180–225 degrees, centered on the centerline, meaning it is specifically designed to be seen by vessels approaching head-on or slightly off the bow. 3. **Conclusion for Scenario:** Since the vessels are "INLAND ONLY" and meeting on a river, Vessel B is likely a towing vessel pushing a tow. If Vessel B is pushing, this special flashing light is displayed at the bow and would be clearly visible to Vessel A during the meeting situation. *** ### Explanation for Incorrect Options **A) yellow towing light** The yellow towing light (required under Rule 24 for towing astern) is a white or yellow light positioned vertically above the stern light and is visible only in the **stern sector (135 degrees astern)**. Since Vessel A and Vessel B are meeting, Vessel A is looking at Vessel B's bow. Therefore, Vessel A would not see the towing light. **B) red sidelight** While a red sidelight (port side) *may* be seen depending on the final angle of the passing maneuver, it is not a definite identifying light for a vessel meeting head-on (in which case, masthead lights and the special flashing light are primary). More importantly, the sighting of the sidelight depends entirely on A being slightly off B's port bow. The special flashing light (C) is mandatory for the operation and displayed in the forward sector, making it the definitive unique light visible during a meeting in this specific inland context. **D) All of the above** This option is incorrect because the yellow towing light (A) is not visible in a meeting situation.