United States Coast Guard Captains License Practice Exam

In a situation where a vessel is aground, what sound signal is necessary?

1. A long blast of the whistle at intervals not to exceed one minute

2. A rapid ringing of a bell for 10 seconds

3. A rapid ringing of a bell for 5 seconds every two minutes

4. A series of short whistles followed by a long blast

The correct answer is: A rapid ringing of a bell for 5 seconds every two minutes

In a situation where a vessel is aground, the sound signal required is a rapid ringing of a bell for 5 seconds every two minutes. This sound signal is specifically designated for vessels that are at anchor or aground and serves as a warning to nearby vessels of potential danger, allowing others to navigate safely around the grounded vessel. The regulation emphasizes the need for intervals, ensuring other mariners are alerted to the vessel's position without risking collision or confusion. Ringing the bell repetitively indicates to others that the vessel is not able to maneuver, and the periodicity of every two minutes helps maintain a consistent signal that is easily identifiable. In contrast, other sound signals listed are not applicable to a grounded vessel. For example, a long blast of the whistle at intervals not exceeding one minute is typically used for vessels that are restricted in their ability to maneuver, while a series of short whistles followed by a long blast refers to different navigational situations, such as when a vessel is about to be overtaken. Therefore, the choice of the bell signal accurately aligns with the maritime rules concerning vessels that are aground.