In restricted visibility, what basic actions are recommended to avoid collisions?

• A. Increase speed, ignore signals, and maintain course.
• B. Keep a proper lookout and use signals only when needed.
• C. Reduce speed only.
• D. Reduce speed, sound appropriate signals, keep a proper lookout, and use radar/communications as needed.

Answer: (D)

In restricted visibility, the goal is to make your vessel’s presence known, your actions predictable, and your ability to detect others maximized. Reducing speed gives you more time to see and react to hazards and reduces the risk of a collision if another vessel is closer than it appears. Sounding appropriate signals warns nearby vessels of your approach and your intentions, following standard fog or meeting signals so others know you’re there even when you can’t see them. Keeping a proper lookout means scanning visually and by ear, using lights or night signals as needed, and staying alert for small or fast-moving targets that might not be easy to spot. Using radar and communications as needed helps you detect vessels or obstacles that aren’t visible and coordinate with otherTraffic or shore stations to avoid conflicts.

The other options’re incomplete or unsafe because they either ignore signals and slow down, or rely on reducing speed alone without addressing being seen, heard, or able to communicate effectively. By combining all four actions, you maximize safety in poor visibility.