What should a Coxswain do if given a distress signal?

When a Coxswain receives a distress signal, the most appropriate action is to acknowledge the signal and assess the situation. This response involves recognizing the urgency of the distress signal, which indicates that someone may be in immediate danger and requires assistance.

By acknowledging the signal, the Coxswain confirms awareness of the situation and prepares to take appropriate measures. Following this, assessing the situation is crucial—it allows the Coxswain to evaluate the specifics of the distress, such as the location of the vessel in need, the nature of the emergency, and any potential hazards that might affect the response. This thorough assessment informs the next steps and contributes to effective decision-making in a crisis.

While changing course can be part of the response, it should be based on an informed understanding of the situation rather than a hasty action. Similarly, ignoring the signal is inappropriate and disregards the responsibility of the Coxswain to ensure safety at sea. Signaling back for clarification can be useful, but it is not the first step in responding to a distress call, as immediate acknowledgment and assessment are imperative.