In restricted visibility, which actions should you take to avoid a collision?

• A. Increase your speed and rely on searchlights only.
• B. Ignore radar and signal from distant ships only.
• C. Reduce speed, sound appropriate signals, keep a proper lookout, and use radar/communications as needed.
• D. Stop the vessel and wait for seas to calm.

Answer: (C)

In restricted visibility, the safe approach is to slow down, alert others, keep a keen watch, and use all available tools to detect and assess risks. Reducing speed gives you more time to spot hazards and to maneuver if another vessel comes into your path. Sounding the appropriate signals communicates your presence and intentions to nearby ships, helping to prevent surprised crossings. A proper lookout means continuously monitoring by sight and hearing and using every available means—radar, AIS, and radios—to stay aware of traffic and potential conflicts. Using radar helps you detect vessels that aren’t visible yet, gauge their range and bearing, and track their movement, while radios and other communications help you share information and coordinate actions with others. Put together, these actions create a safer, more controlled response to the uncertainties of limited visibility.

Options that push speed, ignore radar, or rely on signaling from distant ships, or that require stopping the vessel, ignore the practical tools and steps needed to safely manage approaching risks and are not appropriate in restricted visibility.