Mariners Learning Practice Test

Fog makes visual detection unreliable, so the safest approach is to take avoiding action as early as possible. When you hear fog signals or sense another vessel nearby, act promptly to reduce risk by adjusting speed or altering course to pass at a safe distance. Waiting for visual contact can leave you with insufficient time to maneuver, since visibility is limited. Simply maintaining course or ignoring signals doesn’t help because you don’t have a clear view of the other vessel, and drifting isn’t a controlled or reliable way to prevent a collision. The best practice is to use all available information and execute a positive, early action to stay well clear.