When operating a power-driven vessel in conditions of restricted visibility, you should take several precautions. First, reduce your speed to a safe level and maintain a lookout for other vessels and hazards. Use sound signals to communicate your presence, such as one prolonged blast followed by two short blasts if you are underway. Additionally, ensure you are aware of your vessel's position and use radar or other navigational aids to enhance situational awareness.
Turn on navigation lights.
You should always move very slowly while operating in conditions of low visibility. This is because you cannot avoid accidents if you are moving to fast.
If you are operating a power-driven vessel in conditions of restricted visibility, you should reduce your speed to a safe level to allow for better maneuverability and reaction time. Maintain a proper lookout using sight and hearing, and use radar if available. Sound the appropriate signal as required by navigational rules, such as prolonged blasts on the horn. Be prepared to take evasive action if necessary to avoid collisions.
Turn on navigation lights.
Turn on navigation lights.
Turn on Navigation Lights
When operating in conditions of reduced visibility, such as fog or heavy rain, reduce your speed, use your headlights, and increase following distance. Stay alert, avoid sudden maneuvers, and use windshield wipers and defrosters to maintain visibility. Consider pulling over in a safe location if visibility becomes too poor to continue driving safely.
When operating in conditions of reduced visibility, it is crucial to reduce speed and increase following distances to allow for adequate reaction time. Use headlights and fog lights to improve visibility, and avoid using high beams as they can reflect off fog or rain, worsening visibility. Stay alert and be prepared to stop or change course if necessary. If conditions become too hazardous, find a safe place to pull over and wait for visibility to improve.
Must carry a working flashlight or lantern onboard
Two prolonged blasts of a ship's horn typically indicate that the vessel is operating in restricted visibility and is making a turn to starboard (right). This signal is part of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and helps communicate the ship's intentions to other vessels nearby. It is essential for maintaining safety and awareness in foggy or low-visibility conditions.
When operating a boat, appointed lookouts should be in place at all times, especially in busy or restricted waterways, during low visibility conditions such as fog or nighttime, and when navigating through potentially hazardous areas. Lookouts help monitor for other vessels, obstacles, and changing environmental conditions, enhancing overall safety. Their presence is crucial for effective communication and timely responses to any potential dangers.
The most effective marine distress signal when operating after dark or during restricted visibility is a combination of sound signals and visual signals. A distress signal using a sound signal like a horn or whistle, along with flares or an emergency beacon, can be crucial. Flares provide bright illumination that can be seen from a distance, while sound signals can alert nearby vessels. Using both methods increases the chances of being noticed by rescuers.