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

When the water depth becomes uncertain, what is the best practice?

1. Set the anchor outside of a channel

2. Increase speed to get through quickly

3. Assume the depth is safe and continue

4. Call for help immediately

The correct answer is: Set the anchor outside of a channel

Setting the anchor outside of a channel when the water depth becomes uncertain is a prudent safety measure. This practice allows you to ensure that your vessel is stable and secure in an area where you can avoid potential grounding or collisions with submerged obstacles. Anchoring in a safe and open area provides time to assess the situation, determine water depth using soundings, and decide the best course of action without risking the integrity of your vessel. In contrast, increasing speed to get through quickly can lead to unsafe situations, as it can reduce your control over the vessel and increase the risk of damage or accidents. Assuming the depth is safe and continuing without verification can lead to grounding, potentially causing significant damage to the boat and danger to those onboard. Calling for help immediately may be necessary in dire situations, but proactively anchoring in a safe area is often the best first step when faced with uncertainty regarding water depth.