Showing posts with label Rules of the Road. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Rules of the Road. Show all posts
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Friday, December 5, 2008
Navigation Rules FAQ
Have there been any changes to the current edition? Edition D is the most current edition of the Navigation Rules, and in 2003 several changes were made to the Navigation Rules, most dealt with Wing in Ground Craft.
Can I order the Navigation Rules over the phone? To order a copy of the Navigation Rules, call the Government Printing Office at (202) 512-1800 and provide the GPO stock number (050-012-00407-2).
What "vessels" are required to comply with the Navigation Rules? In Rule 3 the word vessel includes every description of watercraft, including non-displacement craft, WIG craft, and seaplanes, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water.Courts have interpreted transportation to not just include passengers, but also goods or services. The Navigation Rules address vessels, not whom/what is controlling them.
Am I required to carry a copy of the Navigation Rules? According to the Inland section of Annex V after January 1, 1983, the operator of each self-propelled vessel 12 meters or more in length shall carry on board and maintain for ready reference a copy of the Inland Navigation Rules.
Rules 24(a), 24(c) and 24(d) confuse me: The intent of Rule 24 is to state that the towing identification lights on a power driven vessel when towing may be carried in either the location of the forward masthead light or the after masthead light if carried. Rules 24(a) and 24(c) concern the description of the towing identification lights and where they shall be carried. Rule 24 (d) refers to Rule 23(a) which concerns the requirement for the masthead light(s).
What is a safe passing distance for vessels? According to Rule 16 there is no specified distance one must keep when crossing, meeting, or overtaking another vessel, other than, as the give-way vessel, you are to keep well clear.As to what distance a vessel may be required to take action to avoid collision, it will vary, however it should be in accordance with Rule 6, Safe Speed, and Rule 8, Action to Avoid Collision. These rules which state amongst other things that: Any alteration of course or speed shall be large enough to be readily apparent to another vessel and taken early enough to allow sufficient sea room for the safe passage of the other vessel and at a safe speed so that she can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.The provisions prescribed in action by the Give-Way Vessel and Stand-On Vessel apply only when vessels are in sight of each other.
What is a special flashing light? View the Arcs of Visibility page for an explanation of a special flashing light.
Who specifies whether a waterway is a Narrow Channel and therefore Rule 9 is applicable? A waterway is deemed a narrow channel by the practical and traditional uses of that waterway (usually a court determination) or it can be specified by the Secretary in Title 33 CFR part 89.25.Note, Rule 9 differs between the International and Inland sections..Rule 9 Inland Rules: (a) A power-driven vessel traveling downbound with a following current shall have the right-of-way over an upbound vessel in the Great Lakes , Western Rivers , and those waters specified by the Secretary.Rule 9 International Rules: (f) A vessel nearing a bend or an area of a narrow channel or fairway where other vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruction shall navigate with particular alertness and caution and shall sound the appropriate signal prescribed in Rule 34(e).
What are the regulations concerning wake effects, wake damage, and responsibility? Regarding one's wake, vessels over 1600 Gross Tons are specifically required by Title 33 CFR 164.11 to set the vessel's speed with consideration for...the damage that might be caused by the vessel's wake. Further, there may be State or local laws which specifically address "wake" for the waters in question.While vessels under 1600 GT are not specifically required to manage their speed in regards to wake, they are still required to operate in a prudent matter which does not endanger life, limb, or property (46 USC 2302). Nor do the Navigation Rules exonerate any vessel from the consequences of neglect (Rule 2), which, among other things, could be unsafe speeds (Rule 6), improper lookout (Rule 5), or completely ignoring your responsibilities as prescribed by the Navigation Rules.As to whether or not a particular vessel is responsible for the damage it creates is a question of law and fact that is best left to the Courts. For more information, contact your local Marine Patrol or State Boating Law Administrator.
Am I required to have Radar? Radar is not required on vessels under 1600 GT (Title 33 CFR part 164.35), however, Rule 7 states that proper use shall be made of radar equipment if fitted and operational. In other words, whoever has one must use it.The Navigation Rules are not meant to discourage the use of any device, rather they expect prudent mariners to avail themselves of all available means appropriate...as to make full appraisal of the situation (Rule 5), e.g. the use of radar. At issue is whether the use of radar is appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and that is a determination made by the Master; and, ultimately decided by a trier of fact.Should you be in a collision how would a judge/jury rule on your contention that the use of radar was impracticable (due to electrical drain, crew shortages, etc.)? Also, if a collision does occur, then there was obviously a risk of collision beforehand. Could the determination of that risk have been made sooner with the use of radar? It is difficult to answer such questions because the circumstances of each case are different.More importantly, remember that Rule 7specifies that assumptions shall not be made on the basis of scanty information, especially scanty radar information.
When do I need a Look-out? According to Rule 5, all vessels are responsible for maintaining a proper look-out at all times this includes one-man crews, unmanned crafts, and recreational boats.The term look-out implies watching and listening so that he/she is aware of what is happening around the vessel. The emphasis is on performing the action, not on the person. Still, in all but the smallest vessels, the lookout is expected to be an individual who is not the helmsman and is usually located in the forward part of the boat, away from the distractions and noises of the bridge. While no specific location on a vessel is prescribed for the lookout, good navigation requires placement at the point best suited for the purpose of hearing and observing the approach of objects likely to be brought into collision with the vessel.The size of the vessel and crew effect this answer, however, the emphasis in every legal decision points to the need for a proper, attentive look-out. While the use of radar to evaluate the situation is implied in the requirement to use all available means, that is still understood to be secondary to maintaining a look-out by sight and hearing.
Where do Kayaks and Canoes fit into the Navigation Rules? Neither the International nor Inland Navigation Rules address "kayaks" or "canoes" per se, except in regards to "vessels under oars" in Rule 25 regarding lights. One could infer that a "vessel under oars" should be treated as a "sailing vessel" since it is permitted to display the same lights as one, but, ultimately the issue of whom "gives way" would fall to what would be "required by the ordinary practice of seamen, or by the special circumstances of the case" (Rule 2).
Can I use Strobe Lights to be more visible at night? For any other lights beyond those specifically defined within the Navigation Rules they should be such lights as cannot be mistaken for the lights specified in these Rules, or do not impair their visibility or distinctive character, or interfere with the keeping of a proper look-out (Rule 20).Displaying a strobe for “higher visibility” would confuse other vessels as to your navigational status (many aids to navigation use a strobe or flashing). Also, lights provide direction and aspect information to other boat operators. For example, if while operating my vessel I see a red light on my starboard side I know I am the give-way vessel (Rule 16, 17). The use of a strobe light could overwhelm a vessel’s navigation lights and cease to provide such crucial direction and aspect information to other boat operators.Also, Rule 36 of the International Rules addresses signals to attract attention and for the purpose of [that] rule the use of high intensity intermittent or revolving lights, such as strobe lights, shall be avoided. Rule 37 of the Inland Rules addresses strobes in regards to distress signals so that when a vessel is in distress and requires assistance she shall use…a high intensity white light flashing at regular intervals from 50 to 70 times per minute.Since strobe light use is to be avoided (International waters) or used as a distress signal (Inland waters), it cannot be used to routinely mark vessels operating on the water.
How do I report a marine accident? Title 33 CFR part 173 provides guidance in regards to accident reporting. For most States the issuing and reporting authority is the State itself – if in doubt contact your local Coast Guard Marine Safety Office.
Who is responsible for damage incurred during a marine accident?There is a long standing notion of Tort Law--that one is responsible for one's damages--the issue however is culpability and to what degree. These are matters of fact and law.
What does WIG stand for? WIG stands for Wing in Ground Craft.
What are Demarcation Lines and Territorial Seas? Demarcation Lines divide the high seas from harbors, rivers, and other inland waters of the United States, for the purpose of determining the applicability of Inland Rules in lieu of the International Rules. International Rules are tantamount to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, (72 COLREGS), while the Inland Rules are synonymous with 33 CFR 80 of United States Code.Note, the term international water is not defined by U.S. law or the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), yet, it is commonly used to convey high seas. High seas are those waters beyond territorial seas. Territorial seas are a maritime zone extending beyond the land territory and internal waters of that country over which the country exercises sovereignty and jurisdiction, to include the airspace over the territorial sea, as well as to its bed and subsoil.Territorial seas of the United States are 12 nautical miles from the baseline of the United States of America, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the United States Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and any other territories or possessions over which the United States exercises sovereignty. The territorial waters of the United States can sometimes extend out to 24 or 200 miles depending on the matter in question; see 33 CFR 2 or UNCLOS for further information.
What are the Waters Specified by the Secretary? There is a list of waters specified by the Secretary as quoted from Title 33 CFR part 89.25. These waters are referred to in the Inland sections of Rule 9(a)ii, Rule 14(d), Rule 15(b), and Rule 24(i).
What is Outer Continental Shelf Activity? Outer Continental Shelf Activities and Mobile Offshore Drilling Units (MODU) are accountable to the regulations found in Title 33 CFR, parts 140-147 (Subchapter N).According to Rule 3 Mobile Offshore Drilling Units (MODU) are not considered underway when drilling because they are “attached” or “made fast” to the bottom. That being established, requirements for MODU’s can be found in Title 33 CFR, part 67.05, Aids to Navigation on Artificial Islands and Fixed Structures. MODU’s fall under the definition of “structures” which includes drilling platforms and barges.
What is Automatic Identification System? For more information on Automatic Identification System (AIS), visit the USCG AIS Webpage.
Can I order the Navigation Rules over the phone? To order a copy of the Navigation Rules, call the Government Printing Office at (202) 512-1800 and provide the GPO stock number (050-012-00407-2).
What "vessels" are required to comply with the Navigation Rules? In Rule 3 the word vessel includes every description of watercraft, including non-displacement craft, WIG craft, and seaplanes, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water.Courts have interpreted transportation to not just include passengers, but also goods or services. The Navigation Rules address vessels, not whom/what is controlling them.
Am I required to carry a copy of the Navigation Rules? According to the Inland section of Annex V after January 1, 1983, the operator of each self-propelled vessel 12 meters or more in length shall carry on board and maintain for ready reference a copy of the Inland Navigation Rules.
Rules 24(a), 24(c) and 24(d) confuse me: The intent of Rule 24 is to state that the towing identification lights on a power driven vessel when towing may be carried in either the location of the forward masthead light or the after masthead light if carried. Rules 24(a) and 24(c) concern the description of the towing identification lights and where they shall be carried. Rule 24 (d) refers to Rule 23(a) which concerns the requirement for the masthead light(s).
What is a safe passing distance for vessels? According to Rule 16 there is no specified distance one must keep when crossing, meeting, or overtaking another vessel, other than, as the give-way vessel, you are to keep well clear.As to what distance a vessel may be required to take action to avoid collision, it will vary, however it should be in accordance with Rule 6, Safe Speed, and Rule 8, Action to Avoid Collision. These rules which state amongst other things that: Any alteration of course or speed shall be large enough to be readily apparent to another vessel and taken early enough to allow sufficient sea room for the safe passage of the other vessel and at a safe speed so that she can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.The provisions prescribed in action by the Give-Way Vessel and Stand-On Vessel apply only when vessels are in sight of each other.
What is a special flashing light? View the Arcs of Visibility page for an explanation of a special flashing light.
Who specifies whether a waterway is a Narrow Channel and therefore Rule 9 is applicable? A waterway is deemed a narrow channel by the practical and traditional uses of that waterway (usually a court determination) or it can be specified by the Secretary in Title 33 CFR part 89.25.Note, Rule 9 differs between the International and Inland sections..Rule 9 Inland Rules: (a) A power-driven vessel traveling downbound with a following current shall have the right-of-way over an upbound vessel in the Great Lakes , Western Rivers , and those waters specified by the Secretary.Rule 9 International Rules: (f) A vessel nearing a bend or an area of a narrow channel or fairway where other vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruction shall navigate with particular alertness and caution and shall sound the appropriate signal prescribed in Rule 34(e).
What are the regulations concerning wake effects, wake damage, and responsibility? Regarding one's wake, vessels over 1600 Gross Tons are specifically required by Title 33 CFR 164.11 to set the vessel's speed with consideration for...the damage that might be caused by the vessel's wake. Further, there may be State or local laws which specifically address "wake" for the waters in question.While vessels under 1600 GT are not specifically required to manage their speed in regards to wake, they are still required to operate in a prudent matter which does not endanger life, limb, or property (46 USC 2302). Nor do the Navigation Rules exonerate any vessel from the consequences of neglect (Rule 2), which, among other things, could be unsafe speeds (Rule 6), improper lookout (Rule 5), or completely ignoring your responsibilities as prescribed by the Navigation Rules.As to whether or not a particular vessel is responsible for the damage it creates is a question of law and fact that is best left to the Courts. For more information, contact your local Marine Patrol or State Boating Law Administrator.
Am I required to have Radar? Radar is not required on vessels under 1600 GT (Title 33 CFR part 164.35), however, Rule 7 states that proper use shall be made of radar equipment if fitted and operational. In other words, whoever has one must use it.The Navigation Rules are not meant to discourage the use of any device, rather they expect prudent mariners to avail themselves of all available means appropriate...as to make full appraisal of the situation (Rule 5), e.g. the use of radar. At issue is whether the use of radar is appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and that is a determination made by the Master; and, ultimately decided by a trier of fact.Should you be in a collision how would a judge/jury rule on your contention that the use of radar was impracticable (due to electrical drain, crew shortages, etc.)? Also, if a collision does occur, then there was obviously a risk of collision beforehand. Could the determination of that risk have been made sooner with the use of radar? It is difficult to answer such questions because the circumstances of each case are different.More importantly, remember that Rule 7specifies that assumptions shall not be made on the basis of scanty information, especially scanty radar information.
When do I need a Look-out? According to Rule 5, all vessels are responsible for maintaining a proper look-out at all times this includes one-man crews, unmanned crafts, and recreational boats.The term look-out implies watching and listening so that he/she is aware of what is happening around the vessel. The emphasis is on performing the action, not on the person. Still, in all but the smallest vessels, the lookout is expected to be an individual who is not the helmsman and is usually located in the forward part of the boat, away from the distractions and noises of the bridge. While no specific location on a vessel is prescribed for the lookout, good navigation requires placement at the point best suited for the purpose of hearing and observing the approach of objects likely to be brought into collision with the vessel.The size of the vessel and crew effect this answer, however, the emphasis in every legal decision points to the need for a proper, attentive look-out. While the use of radar to evaluate the situation is implied in the requirement to use all available means, that is still understood to be secondary to maintaining a look-out by sight and hearing.
Where do Kayaks and Canoes fit into the Navigation Rules? Neither the International nor Inland Navigation Rules address "kayaks" or "canoes" per se, except in regards to "vessels under oars" in Rule 25 regarding lights. One could infer that a "vessel under oars" should be treated as a "sailing vessel" since it is permitted to display the same lights as one, but, ultimately the issue of whom "gives way" would fall to what would be "required by the ordinary practice of seamen, or by the special circumstances of the case" (Rule 2).
Can I use Strobe Lights to be more visible at night? For any other lights beyond those specifically defined within the Navigation Rules they should be such lights as cannot be mistaken for the lights specified in these Rules, or do not impair their visibility or distinctive character, or interfere with the keeping of a proper look-out (Rule 20).Displaying a strobe for “higher visibility” would confuse other vessels as to your navigational status (many aids to navigation use a strobe or flashing). Also, lights provide direction and aspect information to other boat operators. For example, if while operating my vessel I see a red light on my starboard side I know I am the give-way vessel (Rule 16, 17). The use of a strobe light could overwhelm a vessel’s navigation lights and cease to provide such crucial direction and aspect information to other boat operators.Also, Rule 36 of the International Rules addresses signals to attract attention and for the purpose of [that] rule the use of high intensity intermittent or revolving lights, such as strobe lights, shall be avoided. Rule 37 of the Inland Rules addresses strobes in regards to distress signals so that when a vessel is in distress and requires assistance she shall use…a high intensity white light flashing at regular intervals from 50 to 70 times per minute.Since strobe light use is to be avoided (International waters) or used as a distress signal (Inland waters), it cannot be used to routinely mark vessels operating on the water.
How do I report a marine accident? Title 33 CFR part 173 provides guidance in regards to accident reporting. For most States the issuing and reporting authority is the State itself – if in doubt contact your local Coast Guard Marine Safety Office.
Who is responsible for damage incurred during a marine accident?There is a long standing notion of Tort Law--that one is responsible for one's damages--the issue however is culpability and to what degree. These are matters of fact and law.
What does WIG stand for? WIG stands for Wing in Ground Craft.
What are Demarcation Lines and Territorial Seas? Demarcation Lines divide the high seas from harbors, rivers, and other inland waters of the United States, for the purpose of determining the applicability of Inland Rules in lieu of the International Rules. International Rules are tantamount to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, (72 COLREGS), while the Inland Rules are synonymous with 33 CFR 80 of United States Code.Note, the term international water is not defined by U.S. law or the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), yet, it is commonly used to convey high seas. High seas are those waters beyond territorial seas. Territorial seas are a maritime zone extending beyond the land territory and internal waters of that country over which the country exercises sovereignty and jurisdiction, to include the airspace over the territorial sea, as well as to its bed and subsoil.Territorial seas of the United States are 12 nautical miles from the baseline of the United States of America, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the United States Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and any other territories or possessions over which the United States exercises sovereignty. The territorial waters of the United States can sometimes extend out to 24 or 200 miles depending on the matter in question; see 33 CFR 2 or UNCLOS for further information.
What are the Waters Specified by the Secretary? There is a list of waters specified by the Secretary as quoted from Title 33 CFR part 89.25. These waters are referred to in the Inland sections of Rule 9(a)ii, Rule 14(d), Rule 15(b), and Rule 24(i).
What is Outer Continental Shelf Activity? Outer Continental Shelf Activities and Mobile Offshore Drilling Units (MODU) are accountable to the regulations found in Title 33 CFR, parts 140-147 (Subchapter N).According to Rule 3 Mobile Offshore Drilling Units (MODU) are not considered underway when drilling because they are “attached” or “made fast” to the bottom. That being established, requirements for MODU’s can be found in Title 33 CFR, part 67.05, Aids to Navigation on Artificial Islands and Fixed Structures. MODU’s fall under the definition of “structures” which includes drilling platforms and barges.
What is Automatic Identification System? For more information on Automatic Identification System (AIS), visit the USCG AIS Webpage.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Navigational Rules of the Road Renewal Exercise
Generally, the boat approaching from your right has the right-of-way. Keep in mind, however, that vessels restricted in maneuverability have the right-of-way over sailing vessels, and sailing vessels have the right-of-way over power vessels that are not restricted in maneuverability.
In order to avoid collisions, you must know the rules of the road whenever he or she is at the helm of a boat. Nobody is born knowing the rules and regulations, so the best time to learn them is before you go out on the water.
The following is a 25 question quiz on the rules of the road. These questions were taken from a Coast Guard Rules of the Road exam that a friend of mine took for their 100 Ton Masters license. The answers are high lighted in red. You should also have a copy of the "International and Inland Navigation Rules" to study and keep aboard your boat. Remember safe boating is alot more fun.
The following is a 25 question quiz on the rules of the road. These questions were taken from a Coast Guard Rules of the Road exam that a friend of mine took for their 100 Ton Masters license. The answers are high lighted in red. You should also have a copy of the "International and Inland Navigation Rules" to study and keep aboard your boat. Remember safe boating is alot more fun.
1. INLAND ONLY Which statement is TRUE concerning narrow channels?
A. You should keep to that side of the channel which is on your port side.
B. You should avoid anchoring in a narrow channel.
C. A vessel having a following current will propose the manner of passage in any case where two vessels are meeting.
D. All of the above
2. INLAND ONLY Your vessel is meeting another vessel head-on. To comply with the steering and sailing rules, you should?
B. You should avoid anchoring in a narrow channel.
C. A vessel having a following current will propose the manner of passage in any case where two vessels are meeting.
D. All of the above
2. INLAND ONLY Your vessel is meeting another vessel head-on. To comply with the steering and sailing rules, you should?
A. sound the danger signal
B. sound one prolonged and two
C. exchange two short blasts
D. exchange one short blast
3. INLAND ONLY A power-driven vessel pushing ahead or towing alongside on the Mississippi River, below the Huey P. Long Bridge, shall carry?
B. sound one prolonged and two
C. exchange two short blasts
D. exchange one short blast
3. INLAND ONLY A power-driven vessel pushing ahead or towing alongside on the Mississippi River, below the Huey P. Long Bridge, shall carry?
A. two masthead lights, sidelights and stern light
B. two masthead lights, sidelights and two towing lights
C. sidelights and two towing lights
D. one masthead light, sidelights and stern light
B. two masthead lights, sidelights and two towing lights
C. sidelights and two towing lights
D. one masthead light, sidelights and stern light
4. INLAND ONLY You are overtaking another power-driven vessel in a narrow channel. The other vessel will have to move to allow you to pass. You wish to overtake the other vessel and leave her on your starboard side. Your first whistle signal should be?
A. two prolong blast followed by one short blast
B. two prolong blast followed by two short blast
B. two prolong blast followed by two short blast
C. one short blast
D. two short blast
5. INLAND ONLY A partially submerged object towed by a vessel must show during the day?
5. INLAND ONLY A partially submerged object towed by a vessel must show during the day?
A. one diamond shape regardless of length of the tow
B. diamond shape only when the length of the tow exceeds 200 meters in length
C. black ball
D. black ball only when the length of the tow exceeds 200 meters in length
B. diamond shape only when the length of the tow exceeds 200 meters in length
C. black ball
D. black ball only when the length of the tow exceeds 200 meters in length
6. INTERNATIONAL ONLY A single vessel being towed alongside shall exhibit?
A. one all-round white light
B. sidelights, stern light and a special flashing light
B. sidelights, stern light and a special flashing light
C. only the outboard sidelight and a stern light
D. sidelights and a stern light
7. INLAND ONLY You are proceeding up a channel in Chesapeake Bay and are meeting an outbound vessel. There is no current. You MUST ?
D. sidelights and a stern light
7. INLAND ONLY You are proceeding up a channel in Chesapeake Bay and are meeting an outbound vessel. There is no current. You MUST ?
A. keep to that side of the channel which is on your vessel's port side
B. stop your vessel, letting the outbound vessel sound the signals for meeting and passing
C. propose or answer one- or two-blast whistle signals given by the other vessel if passing within 1/2 mile
D. give the outbound vessel the right-of-way
B. stop your vessel, letting the outbound vessel sound the signals for meeting and passing
C. propose or answer one- or two-blast whistle signals given by the other vessel if passing within 1/2 mile
D. give the outbound vessel the right-of-way
8. INLAND ONLY While underway and in sight of another vessel forward of your beam more than 0.5 mile away, you put your engines full speed astern. Which statement concerning whistle signals is TRUE?
A. You must sound three short blasts on the whistle.
B. You must sound one blast if backing to starboard.
C. You must sound whistle signals only if the vessels are meeting.
B. You must sound one blast if backing to starboard.
C. You must sound whistle signals only if the vessels are meeting.
D. You need not sound any whistle signals.
9. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND A vessel must proceed at a safe speed?
A. in restricted visibility
B. in congested waters
C. during darkness at all times
9. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND A vessel must proceed at a safe speed?
A. in restricted visibility
B. in congested waters
C. during darkness at all times
D. at all times
10. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND A vessel may use any sound or light signals to attract the attention of another vessel as long as?
A. white lights are not used
B. red and green lights are not used
C. the vessel signals such intentions over the radiotelephone
A. white lights are not used
B. red and green lights are not used
C. the vessel signals such intentions over the radiotelephone
D. the signal cannot be mistaken for a signal authorized by the rules
11. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND Your vessel is underway in reduced visibility. You hear the fog signal of another vessel about 30° on your starboard bow. If danger of collision exists, you must?
11. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND Your vessel is underway in reduced visibility. You hear the fog signal of another vessel about 30° on your starboard bow. If danger of collision exists, you must?
A. alter course to starboard to pass around the other vessel's stern
B. slow your engines and let the other vessel pass ahead of you
C. reduce your speed to bare steerageway
D. alter course to port and pass the other vessel on its port side
C. reduce your speed to bare steerageway
D. alter course to port and pass the other vessel on its port side
12. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND Which vessel would show 3 day-shapes in a vertical line, the highest and lowest being balls and the middle shape being a diamond?
A. Vessel not under command
B. Vessel constrained by her draft
B. Vessel constrained by her draft
C. Vessel minesweeping
D. Vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver
13. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND The Rules state that risk of collision shall be deemed to exist?
A. whenever two vessels approach from opposite directions
B. if the bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change
C. whenever a vessel crosses ahead of the intended track of another vessel
D. if one vessel approaches another so as to be overtaking
B. if the bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change
C. whenever a vessel crosses ahead of the intended track of another vessel
D. if one vessel approaches another so as to be overtaking
14. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND A white masthead light shows through an arc of how many degrees?
A. 90°
B. 112.5°
B. 112.5°
C. 225°
D. 360°
15. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND During the day, a vessel with a tow over 200 meters in length will show?
A. a black ball
B. a diamond shape
C. two cones, apexes together
D. one cone, apex upward
B. a diamond shape
C. two cones, apexes together
D. one cone, apex upward
16. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND You sight another power-driven vessel dead ahead showing both the red and green sidelights. The required action to take would be to ?
A. carefully watch his compass bearing
B. start a radar plot in order to ascertain his course
B. start a radar plot in order to ascertain his course
C. alter your course to port
D. alter your course to starboard
D. alter your course to starboard
17. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND The stern light shall be positioned such that it will show from dead astern to how many degrees on each side of the stern of the vessel?
A. 22.5°
B. 67.5°
C. 112.5°
D. 135.0°
C. 112.5°
D. 135.0°
18. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND A pilot vessel may continue to identity signal if she is?
A. aground
B. at anchor
C. not under command
C. not under command
D. being towed
19. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND Which vessel would exhibit sidelights when underway and not making way?
A. A vessel towing astern
A. A vessel towing astern
B. A vessel trawling
C. A vessel not under command
D. A vessel engaged in dredging operations
20. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND What is the minimum sound signaling equipment required aboard a vessel 10 meters in length?
20. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND What is the minimum sound signaling equipment required aboard a vessel 10 meters in length?
A. Any means of making an efficient sound signal
B. A bell only
C. A whistle only
D. A bell and a whistle
B. A bell only
C. A whistle only
D. A bell and a whistle
21. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND A vessel may exhibit lights other than those prescribed by the Rules as long as the additional lights?
A. are not the same color as either side light
B. have a lesser range of visibility than the prescribed lights
C. do not impair the visibility or distinctive character of the prescribed lights
B. have a lesser range of visibility than the prescribed lights
C. do not impair the visibility or distinctive character of the prescribed lights
D. All of the above
22. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND What determines if a vessel is "restricted in her ability to maneuver" ?
A. Whether or not all of the vessel's control equipment is in working order
B.The vessel's draft in relation to the available depth of water
A. Whether or not all of the vessel's control equipment is in working order
B.The vessel's draft in relation to the available depth of water
C. Whether the vessel is operating in a narrow channel
D. The nature of the vessel's work, limiting maneuverability required by the Rules
23. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND What does the word "breadth" mean in the Rules ?
A.Breadth on the uppermost continuous deck
D. The nature of the vessel's work, limiting maneuverability required by the Rules
23. BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND What does the word "breadth" mean in the Rules ?
A.Breadth on the uppermost continuous deck
B. Molded breadth
C. Greatest breadth
D. Breadth at the load waterline
C. Greatest breadth
D. Breadth at the load waterline
24. INTERNATIONAL ONLY At night, a power-driven vessel underway of less than 7 meters in length where its maximum speed does not exceed 7 knots may show, as a minimum?
A. sidelights and a stern light
B. the lights required for a vessel more than 7 meters in length
B. the lights required for a vessel more than 7 meters in length
C. sidelights only
D. one all-round white light
D. one all-round white light
25. The Rules of Good Seamanship say that ?
A. the stand-on vessel becomes the give-way vessel.
B. every action, including breaking all the rules, must be taken to avoid a collision.
C. in case of a collision, the stand-on vessel is responsible.
D. in case of a collision, the give-way vessel is responsible.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Navigation Rules
Require vessels to display lights and shapes under certain conditions.
Navigation Lights
Recreational vessels are required to display navigation lights between sunset and sunrise and other periods of reduced visibility (fog, rain, haze, etc.). The U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Rules, International-Inland, specifies lighting requirements for every description of water craft. The information below is for power-driven and sailing vessels less than 65.5 feet / 20 meters in length.
Power-driven Vessels
(Sail Vessel under machinery power is considered a power-driven vessel).
If your power-driven vessel is less than 65.5 feet / 20 meters in length, then it must display navigation lights.
If your power-driven vessel is less than 39.4 feet / 12 meters in length, then it may display navigation lights.
If your power-driven vessel is less than 23 feet / 7 meters in length and its maximum speed cannot exceed 7 knots, then it may display an all-round white light, and if practicable, sidelights instead of the lights prescribed above. (For International Rules only)
For power-driven vessels less than 39.4 feet / 12 meters in length, the masthead or all-round white light must be at least 1 meter above the sidelights.
Sidelights may be a combination light, instead of two separate lights.
Sailing Vessels
If your sailing vessel is less than 65.6 feet / 20 meters in length, then it must display navigation lights as shown below
If your vessel is less than 23 feet / 7 meters in length, then it should display lights for a sailboat, such as above. As an option, your vessel may carry an electric torch (flashlight) or lightened lantern that can show a white light in sufficient time to prevent collision.
Vessel Under Oars
Your vessel may carry a flashlight or lighted lantern that can show a white light in sufficient time to prevent collision.
Lights and Shapes
To alert other vessels of conditions, which may be hazardous, there are requirements to display lights at night and shapes during the day.
Anchored Vessels
AT NIGHT: All vessels at anchor must display anchor lights. If your vessel is less than 164 feet / 50 meters in length, then its anchor light is an all-round white light visible where it can best be seen from all directions.
EXCEPTIONS: If your vessel is less than 23 feet / 7 meters in length, then it is not required to display an anchor light or shape unless it is anchored in or near a narrow channel, fairway or anchorage, or where other vessels normally navigate.
If your vessel is less than 65.6 feet / 20 meters in length, then it is not required to display an anchor light if it is anchored in Inland Waters in a special anchorage designated by the Secretary of Transportation.
Sailing Vessels Under Power (Machinery)
During the day, vessels under sail also being propelled by machinery, must exhibit forward, where best seen, a black conical shape with the apex pointing down.
EXCEPTION: If your vessel is less than 39.4 feet / 12 meters in length, then it is not required to display the shape in Inland Waters.
REMINDER: If you are operating your sail vessel at night using machinery or sail and machinery, then your vessel must display lights required for a power-driven vessel.
Restricted Maneuverability
The Navigation Rules require vessels restricted in their ability to maneuver to display appropriate day shapes or lights. To meet this requirement, if your vessel is engaged in diving activities during the day, then it must exhibit a rigid replica of the international code flag "Alpha" not less than 3.3 feet / 1 meter in height. If the diving activities are at night, then your vessel must display the navigation lights shown below. This requirement does not affect the use of a red and white divers flag, which may be required by State or local law to mark a diver's location. The "A" flag is a navigation signal indicating your vessel's restricted maneuverability and does not pertain to the diver.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)