Practice Test Geeks(OBS) Online Boating Safety Certification Practice Test
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Online Boating Equipment & Maintenance Flashcards

7 cards from real OBS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Online Boating Equipment & Maintenance flashcards as text

  1. What class of fire extinguisher is required on a boat with a permanently installed fuel tank under 26 feet?

    Answer: One B-I type extinguisher

    Motorboats under 26 feet with a permanently installed fuel tank are required by the USCG to carry at least one B-I fire extinguisher.

  2. What is the primary function of a marine VHF radio channel 16?

    Answer: International distress, safety, and calling channel

    Channel 16 is the international hailing and distress channel that all vessels must monitor, and it is used to initiate contact before switching to a working channel.

  3. When should you replace a flare in your visual distress signal kit?

    Answer: When the flare's expiration date has passed

    Pyrotechnic flares are stamped with an expiration date and must be replaced when expired because their reliability degrades over time.

  4. What is the purpose of sacrificial anodes (zinc anodes) on a boat?

    Answer: To protect metal parts from galvanic corrosion by corroding first

    Sacrificial anodes are made of less noble metals that corrode preferentially, protecting the boat's more valuable metal components from galvanic corrosion.

  5. Which of the following is a sign that a marine battery needs replacement?

    Answer: Battery fails to hold a charge or has cracked casing

    A battery that cannot hold a charge after proper charging, or one with a cracked or bulging case, has failed and must be replaced for reliable engine starting.

  6. What is the correct procedure when fueling a boat with an inboard gasoline engine?

    Answer: Close all hatches, ports, and doors during fueling

    During fueling, close all openings to prevent vapors from entering the boat's interior, then run the blower for at least four minutes before starting the engine.

  7. A through-hull fitting below the waterline should have what installed on it?

    Answer: A seacock or gate valve that can be closed quickly

    Every through-hull fitting below the waterline must have a seacock or gate valve so the opening can be closed immediately if the fitting fails and water begins entering.