ASA Risk Management & Mitigation 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A crew member falls overboard at night. What is the FIRST action the skipper should take?
- Deploy the life ring and note the GPS position immediately (Correct answer)
- Turn the engine on and circle back slowly
- Call the Coast Guard on VHF Channel 16
- Have all remaining crew put on life jackets
Correct answer: Deploy the life ring and note the GPS position immediately
Immediately throwing flotation and marking the position prevents losing sight of the MOB in darkness.
Question 2: Which action best mitigates the risk of a lightning strike while sailing offshore?
- Lower metal sails and store below deck
- Ensure the mast is bonded to a keel-grounded conductor and stay away from metal (Correct answer)
- Anchor in shallow water to reduce height above sea level
- Turn off all electronics to prevent surge damage
Correct answer: Ensure the mast is bonded to a keel-grounded conductor and stay away from metal
A proper bonding system routes lightning energy safely into the water, protecting crew and vessel.
Question 3: When anchoring in an unfamiliar bay overnight, what risk mitigation step is most critical?
- Setting two anchors in a V configuration regardless of conditions
- Checking the anchor scope, setting an anchor alarm, and noting swinging room (Correct answer)
- Informing the Coast Guard of your anchorage location
- Keeping the engine running in neutral all night
Correct answer: Checking the anchor scope, setting an anchor alarm, and noting swinging room
Proper scope, an anchor alarm, and awareness of swinging room prevent dragging into hazards.
Question 4: A crew member reports feeling dizzy and nauseous below decks in rough weather. What is the most likely risk and mitigation?
- Dehydration; give them saltwater to drink
- Carbon monoxide poisoning; move them to fresh air immediately and check for CO sources (Correct answer)
- Seasickness; administer antihistamine medication below deck
- Low blood pressure; have them lie down in the forward berth
Correct answer: Carbon monoxide poisoning; move them to fresh air immediately and check for CO sources
Symptoms below decks, especially near the engine or stove, can indicate CO poisoning and require immediate fresh air.
Question 5: What is the primary purpose of a Float Plan before an offshore passage?
- To satisfy insurance requirements for offshore sailing
- To provide authorities with information to mount a search if the vessel is overdue (Correct answer)
- To document the vessel's fuel and water capacity for customs
- To notify marinas along the route to reserve berths
Correct answer: To provide authorities with information to mount a search if the vessel is overdue
A Float Plan gives rescuers your intended route, crew, and check-in schedule so they know when and where to search.
Question 6: Which scenario represents the HIGHEST fire risk aboard a sailboat?
- Running the diesel engine at full throttle in calm conditions
- Refueling the outboard engine in the cockpit with the cabin closed (Correct answer)
- Using a gas stove with a pot of water while at anchor
- Charging lithium batteries below deck with a certified charger
Correct answer: Refueling the outboard engine in the cockpit with the cabin closed
Gasoline vapors are heavier than air and can accumulate in the cabin, creating an explosive atmosphere during enclosed refueling.
Question 7: What is the safest way to manage the risk of an unexpected gust while sailing with full canvas?
- Bear away immediately to reduce apparent wind
- Luff the sails and ease sheets simultaneously to spill wind (Correct answer)
- Tack quickly to change the point of sail
- Drop the mainsail and continue under jib only
Correct answer: Luff the sails and ease sheets simultaneously to spill wind
Luffing and easing sheets simultaneously depowers the sails fastest without making a drastic course change.
ASA Risk Management & Mitigation 2
A crew member falls overboard at night.
What is the FIRST action the skipper should take?