Emergency Procedures & Safety Flashcards

What is the DWO's role during a man overboard (MOB) emergency?

Answer: Sound the alarm, execute the appropriate recovery maneuver, post lookouts, and coordinate rescue

The DWO must immediately sound the MOB alarm, deploy a life buoy, execute the Williamson turn or appropriate recovery maneuver, post lookouts, and coordinate the rescue effort.

What is the Williamson Turn used for?

Answer: A ship maneuvering technique to return to the exact point where a person fell overboard

The Williamson Turn puts the ship's rudder hard over, then shifts to the opposite side, bringing the vessel back along its original track to the point where the person entered the water.

What information must be included in a distress (MAYDAY) call?

Answer: Vessel name, position, nature of distress, number of persons aboard, and assistance required

A MAYDAY call must include vessel identification, MMSI, position, nature of distress, type of assistance required, number of persons aboard, and any other relevant information.

What is the purpose of the Ship Security Alert System (SSAS)?

Answer: To silently alert shore authorities of a security threat without alerting the attackers aboard

SSAS allows a ship under threat (piracy, terrorism) to send a covert distress alert to shore authorities without alerting the attackers, enabling response coordination without escalating the situation.

What are the DWO's responsibilities regarding fire detection and response?

Answer: Monitor fire detection systems, raise the alarm, contain and fight the fire, and prepare for evacuation if necessary

The DWO must monitor fire detection systems, immediately raise the alarm upon detection, activate fire suppression systems, direct firefighting efforts, and prepare for abandonment if the fire cannot be controlled.

What is GMDSS and what role does it play in maritime emergencies?

Answer: Global Maritime Distress and Safety System — an automated communication system for distress alerting and safety information

GMDSS is an internationally coordinated system using satellite and terrestrial communications to ensure rapid, automated distress alerting and maritime safety information dissemination regardless of sea area.