Practice Test Geeks(OBS) Online Boating Safety Certification Practice Test
← All OBS Flashcard Decks

Defensive Driving Techniques 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 Defensive Driving Techniques flashcards as text

  1. When operating at night, a defensive boater uses which technique to spot hazards?

    Answer: Scanning side to side and using peripheral vision rather than staring directly ahead

    Scanning and using peripheral vision helps detect low-visibility objects at night, as direct staring reduces night-vision sensitivity.

  2. What is the purpose of a 'float plan' in defensive boating?

    Answer: To inform someone ashore of your trip details so they can alert rescuers if you're overdue

    A float plan left with a responsible person ashore ensures that rescuers know where to search if you don't return on time.

  3. When anchoring for the night, a defensive boater should:

    Answer: Choose a protected anchorage, set proper scope, and display anchor light

    A protected anchorage with proper scope (7:1 ratio recommended) and a white anchor light ensures safety and compliance with regulations.

  4. A passenger falls overboard. What is the first defensive action a boater should take?

    Answer: Shout 'man overboard,' throw a flotation device, and keep the person in sight

    Shouting the alarm, throwing a PFD, and maintaining visual contact are the immediate priorities in a man-overboard situation.

  5. Which condition makes a vessel particularly vulnerable to capsizing, requiring extra defensive measures?

    Answer: Beam seas (waves striking the side of the vessel)

    Beam seas strike the side of a vessel and can cause rolling that leads to capsizing, especially on flat-bottomed or narrow boats.

  6. Why should a defensive boater avoid following the wake of a faster vessel through a narrow channel?

    Answer: The wake can push your vessel into hazards, and you may not see what the lead vessel is avoiding

    A leading vessel's wake can be misleading and obscure hazards; they may also be making corrections you cannot anticipate.

  7. What does defensive boating require when approaching a vessel displaying a dive flag (blue-and-white Alpha flag)?

    Answer: Slow to minimum speed and stay at least 100 feet away from the flag

    Divers may be underwater near a dive flag; passing slowly and staying at least 100 feet away prevents propeller strikes.