OBS Communication & Documentation 2

Question 1

What does a single prolonged blast of a horn lasting 4-6 seconds indicate when a vessel is departing a dock?

Accepted Answer

The vessel is leaving the berth

Answer

One prolonged blast (4-6 seconds) signals a vessel is departing from a dock or berth.

Question 2

On VHF radio, what does 'MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY' followed by the vessel name indicate?

Accepted Answer

A distress call for grave and imminent danger

Answer

MAYDAY repeated three times is the internationally recognized distress signal for a vessel in grave and imminent danger requiring immediate assistance.

Question 3

Which VHF channel is designated for ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore commercial working traffic?

Accepted Answer

Channel 68

Answer

Channel 68 is one of the recreational working channels used for ship-to-ship communication after establishing contact on Channel 16.

Question 4

What information must be included in a float plan left with a responsible person before departure?

Accepted Answer

Vessel description, trip itinerary, crew list, and emergency contacts

Answer

A complete float plan includes vessel description, color, registration numbers, trip itinerary, number of persons aboard, and emergency contact information.

Question 5

How long should a skipper wait before contacting the Coast Guard if an overdue vessel has not returned according to a float plan?

Accepted Answer

There is no standard — use judgment based on conditions

Answer

There is no fixed wait time; the decision to contact the Coast Guard depends on weather, vessel type, operator experience, and other circumstances.

(OBS) Online Boating Safety Certification Practice Test

(OBS) Online Boating Safety Certification Practice Test

OBS Communication & Documentation 2