What should you do if a safe speed cannot be maintained due to a hazard that develops during a night approach?

• A. Slow down further or stop and reassess, possibly change course.
• B. Speed up to clear hazard.
• C. Ignore hazard and proceed.
• D. Turn off lights.

Answer: (A)

When a hazard appears during a night approach, your priority is to have enough time and space to respond safely. Slowing down gives you more time to evaluate the hazard, increases your control of the vessel, and reduces your stopping distance relative to your new speed. If you can’t maintain a safe speed, slow down further or come to a stop to reassess the situation and, if needed, change course to avoid the hazard. Speeding up would leave you less able to react, while ignoring the hazard or proceeding could lead to a collision. Turning off lights hinders visibility and is not a safe remedy.