Practice Test GeeksSVOP - Small Vessel Operator Proficiency Practice Test
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Emergency Procedures and Safety Flashcards

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

Read the first 6 Emergency Procedures and Safety flashcards as text

  1. What is the correct sequence for abandoning a commercial small vessel?

    Answer: Send MAYDAY, don lifejackets, take survival equipment, launch and board liferaft, stay near the vessel if safe

    Abandon ship sequence: MAYDAY first (so rescue is on the way), lifejackets on all persons, grab grab-bag (EPIRB, flares, water, first aid), launch the liferaft, board the raft (staying near the vessel as a reference point for searchers), and activate EPIRB.

  2. How should fire fighting on a small vessel be approached before using an extinguisher?

    Answer: Ensure an escape route is available, account for all persons, cut fuel supply if possible, fight from the windward side

    Before engaging a fire: account for all persons and get them on deck with lifejackets ready; ensure you have a clear escape route; position the vessel so wind carries flames away from escape routes; cut fuel (engine off, close fuel valves); and fight from the windward side (fire blows away from you).

  3. What is hypothermia and at what water temperature does serious risk begin for an immersed person?

    Answer: A dangerous drop in core body temperature — serious risk begins below approximately 15°C (59°F) and is life-threatening below 10°C (50°F)

    Hypothermia occurs when core body temperature drops below 35°C. Cold water (below 15°C) conducts heat away from the body 25× faster than air. In water below 10°C, unconsciousness can occur within 30 minutes. Most Canadian waters are dangerously cold.

  4. What is the correct procedure for towing a distressed vessel?

    Answer: Establish communication, use a bridle on the towed vessel, ensure sufficient scope of towline, maintain low speed, and monitor both vessels

    Safe towing requires: clear communication between vessels; a proper towing bridle to distribute loads; adequate scope (towline length) with a catenary for shock absorption; low, steady speed; watch on the towline; and constant monitoring of the towed vessel for changes in trim or flooding.

  5. What is the purpose of an EPIRB and how is it activated?

    Answer: Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon — transmits a distress signal with GPS position to COSPAS-SARSAT satellites, activated manually or automatically when submerged

    An EPIRB transmits a 406 MHz distress signal with encoded vessel identity and GPS position to the international COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system, which relays the alert to the nearest Rescue Coordination Centre (RCC). Class II EPIRBs activate manually; Category I activate automatically when submerged.

  6. What steps should a commercial vessel operator take when encountering a medical emergency aboard?

    Answer: Assess and stabilise the patient, radio MCTS/Coast Guard for medical advice (MEDICO), and proceed to the nearest appropriate facility

    Medical emergencies: assess ABCs (airway, breathing, circulation), administer first aid, contact MCTS on Ch 16 to request MEDICO (medical advice by radio), and proceed to the nearest appropriate medical facility or rendezvous with emergency services.