While underway your vessel enters fog. You stop your engines and the vessel is dead in the water. Which fog signal should you sound?

When a vessel is dead in the water, as in the scenario presented, the appropriate fog signal to sound is two prolonged blasts every two minutes. This signal is specifically designated for vessels that are not making way, indicating their presence to other vessels in the vicinity.

In fog conditions, sound signals are essential for safety, allowing other vessels to assess the situation and navigate accordingly. A prolonged blast lasts about four to six seconds, and sounding two prolonged blasts communicates that the vessel is stationary. The regulation emphasizes that this particular signal should be used by vessels that are not underway, ensuring a clear understanding of their status to avoid potential collisions.

Other sound signals differ in their meanings and are intended for different circumstances, such as vessels that are underway or those conducting maneuvers. Therefore, knowing the correct signal for being dead in the water is crucial for maritime safety and adherence to navigational rules.