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
What is the maximum power output allowed when communicating with a vessel less than 1 mile away using a VHF marine radio?
Answer: 1 watt
FCC regulations require VHF marine radios to be operated at the lowest power necessary; for short-range communications, 1 watt is typically sufficient and required.
When operating a VHF marine radio in US waters, what license is required for recreational boaters?
Answer: No license is required for domestic-only recreational use
Recreational boaters operating only in US waters on a US-flagged vessel do not need an FCC license, but one is required for international travel.
Which sound signal indicates that a vessel operating in restricted visibility is not under command or is restricted in its ability to maneuver?
Answer: One prolonged and two short blasts every 2 minutes
One prolonged blast followed by two short blasts every 2 minutes is the fog signal for a vessel not under command, restricted in maneuverability, or constrained by draft.
A boater witnesses another vessel in distress but their own radio is inoperative. What is the best alternative method to signal for help on their behalf?
Answer: Use a cell phone to call 911 or the Coast Guard on their local number
Calling 911 or the Coast Guard directly via cell phone is the fastest way to report another vessel in distress when a VHF radio is unavailable.
What is the purpose of a NOAA weather radio and on which VHF channels are weather broadcasts found?
Answer: Continuous weather forecasts and marine warnings on Channels WX1-WX9
NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts continuous marine weather forecasts, warnings, and advisories on dedicated WX channels (WX1 through WX9).
What is the recommended way to record a vessel's position, speed, and heading during a voyage?
Answer: Maintain a ship's log with periodic entries of position, time, course, and speed
A ship's log provides a written record of a voyage including position fixes, course, speed, weather, and notable events, which is essential for navigation and safety.
How should a recreational boater respond if the Coast Guard hails their vessel on VHF Channel 16?
Answer: Respond immediately on Channel 16 with vessel name and position
When hailed by the Coast Guard on Channel 16, a vessel must respond immediately with its name and position, as this is likely a safety check or important communication.