🔍 Key Concepts

• Rule 34 – Maneuvering and Warning Signals and how sound signals are used near bends or obstructed channels • The purpose of prolonged blasts versus danger signals (five or more short and rapid blasts) • What you must do when approaching an area where another vessel might be hidden from view

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: In a narrow channel with a blind bend, what signal do vessels use to announce their presence to other traffic that may be out of sight? • Think about the difference between a signal that says, “I’m here, around the bend” versus a signal that says, “I doubt your intentions or your actions.” Which fits this situation? • Consider whether posting a lookout or slowing down is specifically required by the Rules at a bend, or if the Rule mentions a particular sound signal instead.

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify which option matches the exact sound signal described in Rule 34 for vessels nearing a bend or an area of a channel where other vessels may be hidden • Make sure you can clearly distinguish between a danger signal and a prolonged blast—they are not the same • Confirm whether the Rule talks about a required action (a specific signal) versus general safe practices like extra lookouts or speed reduction