Best Practices for Collision Avoidance at Se
When a vessel is sighted $20^{\circ}$ to port, and the distance off is 2 miles with a determined risk of collision, it becomes crucial for the Officer on Watch (OOW) to take immediate action. In such a scenario, there are specific actions that can be taken to mitigate the risk effectively. One option available to the OOW is altering course to starboard while sounding one short blast on the whistle. This maneuver helps in changing direction away from potential danger and signaling intent simultaneously. Another possible course of action is maintaining current course and speed while continuously monitoring the situation. By staying vigilant and observant, any deviations or changes in approach by other vessels can be promptly identified. Alternatively, maintaining course and speed but sounding five or more short rapid blasts on the ship's whistle could also signal urgency and draw attention towards avoiding an imminent collision threat. In contrast, if deemed necessary based on assessment criteria like COLREGs rules or prevailing conditions; altering course to port along with two short blasts on the whistle may offer another viable strategy for evasive maneuvers under certain circumstances. Ultimately, when faced with a looming collision risk at sea as described above - swift decision-making coupled with clear communication through appropriate sound signals plays an instrumental role in ensuring maritime safety protocols are adhered too efficiently.