What sound signal should a small vessel use when aground?

• A. 1 long blast every 2 minutes
• B. 1 blast every 2 minutes
• C. 3 short blasts every minute
• D. 5 short blasts every 5 minutes

Answer: (B)

When a small vessel is aground, the appropriate sound signal is to make one blast every two minutes. This signaling serves as a warning to other vessels in the vicinity that the vessel is not underway and is in a position of potential danger. The purpose of these sound signals is to promote safety on the water by ensuring that other boaters are aware of the grounded vessel's presence, thereby helping to prevent collisions or other unsafe interactions.

The signaling protocol for a vessel aground is established in navigation rules to communicate the status of the vessel clearly and effectively. Making one blast every two minutes allows for an easy and recognizable signal that can be heard by other vessels, thereby enhancing situational awareness in the area.