🔍 Key Concepts

• Propeller wash and suction near the stern when engines are used • How relative motion of the vessel affects slack or bight of line on deck • Risk of crew being dragged overboard or crushed if the line suddenly comes tight

💭 Think About

• Think about which engine command most increases the chance that the towline could suddenly tighten or move unpredictably while it is on deck and in the crew’s hands. • Consider how the direction of thrust at the stern changes when you go from ahead to astern or stopped, and how that affects a loose line in the water or over the stern. • Ask yourself: which option gives the deckhands the most stable, predictable situation with the least change in forces on the towline?

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify which actions significantly change propeller thrust direction while crew are working the line at the stern. • Evaluate which choices increase risk of the line running out again or getting sucked toward the propeller. • Confirm which option would minimize sudden load or movement on a towline that is being pulled in and faked down by hand.