In fog ahead, you hear a fog signal from a vessel ahead. What should you do?

• A. Slow to bare steerageway and navigate with caution
• B. Maintain speed
• C. Change course to starboard
• D. Stop immediately

Answer: (A)

In restricted visibility, a fog signal from a vessel ahead means another vessel may be nearby on a possible collision course, so you should slow down to bare steerageway and navigate with caution. Reducing speed gives you more time to observe, reassess the situation with all available tools, and take appropriate action to avoid a collision. You should maintain a vigilant lookout and be prepared to alter course or speed further if more information indicates a risk of crossing paths.

Maintaining speed would keep you at higher risk in fog, stopping immediately is unnecessary unless a collision is imminent, and changing course to starboard based solely on hearing the signal isn’t the recommended first step without a clear indication of the other vessel’s maneuver. The key is to reduce speed and proceed cautiously while monitoring for additional signals and information.