Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Boater Safety Practice Exam

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What does it mean to "heave to" when hailed by a CG vessel?

  1. To increase speed and escape

  2. To come to a stop and allow boarding

  3. To change the course suddenly

  4. To call for help

The correct answer is: To come to a stop and allow boarding

To "heave to" means to come to a stop and allow the Coast Guard (CG) vessel to board or engage with you. This maneuver is particularly important for safety and compliance with maritime regulations. When a vessel is hailed by the Coast Guard, it indicates that the authorities need to conduct a boarding or inspection, often for safety checks or to ensure adherence to legal requirements. By heaving to, the boater is signaling cooperation and respect for the authority of the Coast Guard, allowing for a smooth interaction. This action not only ensures the safety of everyone onboard but also avoids potential misunderstandings or escalations that could arise from failing to stop. The other options, such as increasing speed or changing course suddenly, would likely be viewed as evasive actions and could lead to further complications or legal consequences. Calling for help, although a valid action in distress situations, does not apply here since the context involves responding to a direct hail from a CG vessel rather than seeking assistance.