What should a vessel be prepared to do in the event of a close-quarters situation?

In the event of a close-quarters situation, a vessel should be prepared to take avoiding action in ample time. This is crucial as it aligns with the maritime principle known as good seamanship, which emphasizes the importance of preventing collisions through proactive measures.

Being aware of the surroundings and recognizing when a close-quarter situation is developing allows a vessel to assess the situation quickly and take necessary actions, such as altering course or speed. Delaying action can lead to reduced maneuverability, increased risk of collision, and potentially hazardous scenarios, particularly in busy or constrained waters.

Maintaining speed and course, relying solely on radar detection, or simply signaling to other vessels do not adequately address the need for timely and decisive action when threats arise. Proper training and adherence to the Rules of the Road under the COLREGs require mariners to prioritize avoidance of collisions by actively managing their vessel's position and movement in relation to other traffic.