Communication & Documentation Flashcards
7 cards from real OBS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Communication & Documentation flashcards as text
A boater files a float plan and returns two hours late. What should the person holding the float plan do?
Answer: Attempt to contact the boater, then notify the Coast Guard if unsuccessful
The float plan holder should first try to contact the boater by phone or radio, then alert the Coast Guard or local authorities if contact cannot be made.
What information must appear on the hull of a state-registered recreational vessel?
Answer: State registration number and validation sticker
State-registered vessels must display their registration number on the bow and have a current validation decal showing the registration is active.
How should a vessel's name and hailing port be displayed on a documented vessel?
Answer: On the stern in letters at least 4 inches high and on the hailing port below
Documented vessels must permanently display the vessel name on the exterior hull and the hailing port on the stern in letters at least 4 inches high.
In what situation would a boater use the SECURITE signal on VHF Channel 16?
Answer: To broadcast a navigational hazard such as a large floating log
SECURITE is used to warn other mariners of navigational hazards or important meteorological warnings that could affect vessel safety.
When must a boater file a written accident report with state authorities?
Answer: When a collision results in death, disappearance, injury requiring medical care, or damage exceeding $2,000
Federal law requires a boating accident report when there is loss of life, disappearance, injury requiring medical treatment beyond first aid, or property damage exceeding $2,000.
What is the proper radio procedure for calling another vessel whose name you know?
Answer: Call the vessel name three times, your vessel name once, and 'over' on Channel 16
Proper calling procedure on Channel 16 is to say the called vessel's name up to three times, then your vessel's name, and 'over' to indicate you're waiting for a response.
What should a boater do if they accidentally transmit a false MAYDAY call on Channel 16?
Answer: Immediately announce on Channel 16 that the MAYDAY was sent in error and cancel it
A boater who accidentally transmits a false MAYDAY must immediately announce on Channel 16 that the distress call was made in error to prevent unnecessary rescue operations.