Lifesaving and Survival Craft Flashcards

What does a hydrostatic release unit (HRU) on a liferaft do?

Answer: Releases the raft from its cradle when a vessel sinks to 1.5-4 meters depth

The HRU automatically releases the liferaft from its cradle when the vessel sinks to a depth of 1.5 to 4 meters.

Which signal indicates that crew should proceed to muster stations during an emergency?

Answer: Seven or more short blasts followed by one long blast on the whistle

The abandon ship alarm is seven or more short blasts followed by one long blast on the ship's whistle or alarm system.

What is the maximum number of persons a 20-person capacity liferaft is required to hold in an emergency?

Answer: 20

A liferaft is certified for a specific number of persons and must not exceed that rated capacity.

How long must a lifeboat's propulsion system be capable of operating in still water at full load?

Answer: 24 hours

SOLAS requires lifeboat engines to have sufficient fuel to operate for 24 hours at 6 knots.

When should a crewmember don an immersion suit?

Answer: During any emergency where abandoning ship may be required

Immersion suits should be donned whenever there is a risk of abandoning ship, before entering the water.

What is the purpose of the retro-reflective tape on liferafts and lifejackets?

Answer: To reflect light from searchlights at night for easier detection

Retro-reflective tape reflects light from searchlights or torches back to the source, improving visibility during night rescues.

What action should be taken with the sea anchor when a liferaft is adrift in open ocean?

Answer: Deploy it to slow drift and keep the raft head-on to waves

A sea anchor slows the liferaft's drift, keeps it oriented into the waves, and helps prevent capsizing in rough seas.