OBS Communication & Documentation 5

Question 1

What is the maximum power output allowed when communicating with a vessel less than 1 mile away using a VHF marine radio?

Accepted Answer

1 watt

Answer

25 watts

Answer

5 watts

Answer

There is no restriction on power output

Question 2

When operating a VHF marine radio in US waters, what license is required for recreational boaters?

Accepted Answer

No license is required for domestic-only recreational use

Answer

A Ship Station License from the FCC is always required

Answer

A Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit is required for all operators

Answer

A General Radiotelephone Operator License is required

Question 3

Which sound signal indicates that a vessel operating in restricted visibility is not under command or is restricted in its ability to maneuver?

Accepted Answer

One prolonged and two short blasts every 2 minutes

Answer

One prolonged blast every 2 minutes

Answer

Two prolonged blasts every 2 minutes

Answer

Three short blasts followed by a prolonged blast

Question 4

A boater witnesses another vessel in distress but their own radio is inoperative. What is the best alternative method to signal for help on their behalf?

Accepted Answer

Use a cell phone to call 911 or the Coast Guard on their local number

Answer

Flash lights continuously in any pattern

Answer

Wave both arms slowly to signal passing aircraft

Answer

Sound the horn in a continuous pattern for 10 minutes

Question 5

What is the purpose of a NOAA weather radio and on which VHF channels are weather broadcasts found?

Accepted Answer

Continuous weather forecasts and marine warnings on Channels WX1-WX9

Answer

Entertainment broadcasts on Channels 1-6

Answer

Traffic updates on Channels 17-20

Answer

Coast Guard communications on Channel 22A

Question 6

What is the recommended way to record a vessel's position, speed, and heading during a voyage?

Accepted Answer

Maintain a ship's log with periodic entries of position, time, course, and speed

Answer

Post updates on a boating social media group

Answer

Rely solely on the chartplotter's track history

Answer

Memorize the information and record it only upon arrival

Question 7

How should a recreational boater respond if the Coast Guard hails their vessel on VHF Channel 16?

Accepted Answer

Respond immediately on Channel 16 with vessel name and position

Answer

Switch to a working channel without responding on 16

Answer

Ignore the call and continue monitoring

Answer

Respond only if the vessel is in distress