Question 50

The Correct Answer is B A continuous sounding of a fog whistle (or any prolonged sounding of a whistle or fog horn) by a vessel, under both International and Inland Rules (COLREGs Rule 36), is the internationally recognized signal indicating that **a vessel is in distress** and needs assistance. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) A request that the draw span of a bridge to be opened:** Bridge opening signals (like one long blast followed by one short blast or four short blasts) are specific requests defined by local regulations, not a continuous whistle. * **C) That the vessel is anchored:** Under limited visibility, an anchored vessel signals its presence by rapid ringing of the bell for 5 seconds every minute (and possibly sounding a gong if the vessel is large), not a continuous whistle. * **D) A vessel is broken down and drifting:** While a drifting vessel might also be in distress, simply being broken down and drifting is typically signaled by the required sound signals for a vessel underway but stopped (two prolonged blasts at intervals of not more than 2 minutes in restricted visibility, depending on the situation), not the continuous blast reserved specifically for distress.