The danger signal indicates ________.

• A. A collision imminent
• B. The other vessel is changing course
• C. Indicates doubt as to another vessel's actions
• D. Request to sound more signals

Answer: (C)

When a vessel uses the danger signal, it is conveying doubt about what the other vessel is going to do. This signal is three short blasts on the whistle, and it tells the other vessel that the signaling party isn’t sure of the other vessel’s intentions and there may be danger of a collision if things aren’t clarified. It’s not a statement that a collision is imminent, nor a request for the other vessel to change course or to sound more signals. It’s specifically about uncertainty and prompting the other vessel to communicate or take action to avoid danger.