Question 45

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation for Option A (Correct):** The rule governing a vessel aground in fog is specified in both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and the U.S. Inland Rules (Rule 35, "Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility"). Rule 35(g) states that a vessel aground shall, in addition to the anchor signal (a rapid ringing of the bell for about five seconds followed by a ringing of the gong for about five seconds at intervals of not more than one minute), sound **three separate and distinct strokes on the bell** immediately before and immediately after the rapid ringing of the bell. These three strokes serve to indicate the vessel's serious predicament (being aground). **Explanation for Other Options (Incorrect):** * **B) Three strokes on the gong before and after sounding the anchor signal:** This is incorrect. The three distinct strokes are required to be made on the **bell**, not the gong, and they must immediately precede and follow the rapid ringing of the bell. * **C) Four short blasts on the whistle:** This is incorrect. Four short blasts are not the specified signal for a vessel aground in restricted visibility. Four short blasts are typically associated with a signal for a pilot vessel (Rule 35(i)) or sometimes used as a warning signal, but not for an anchored vessel that is aground. * **D) One prolonged and one short blast on the whistle:** This is incorrect. This signal (one prolonged and one short blast) is the maneuvering signal required for a power-driven vessel leaving a dock or berth (Inland Rule 34(d)). It is not the signal required for a vessel aground in fog.