2021 Vessel Safety Check Practice Test

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The exam is a combination of Multiple Choice, True or False, and Enumeration. The questions were taken from the Vessel Safety Check Manual (COMDTINST M16796.8A), and ANSC Forms: 7003, 7008, 7012, and 7012A as a reference.

Life jackets must be stowed in an immediately available location and not be stowed in plastic bags, in locked or closed compartments or have other gear stowed on top of them. *

1 point

True

False

Any boat with a gasoline powered inboard engine(s) must have a properly installed backfire flame control device on each carburetor with the appropriate approval number on the device. *

1 point

True

False

According to the Vessel Safety Check Manual COMDTINST M16796.8A, who may waive operational surface facility equipment noted on the Vessel Facility Inspection and Offer for Use Form? *

1 point

District Commodore

Flotilla Commander

Director of the Auxiliary (DlRAUX)

District Commander

Boats registered with states must display? *

1 point

The letter-and-number combination on each side of the forward half of the vessel.

Letters and numbers that are painted or permanently attached and at least three inches high.

A current state validation sticker must be affixed within six inches of the registration number, in accordance with state requirements.

All the above

Which of the following statements is false? *

1 point

Batteries should be secured.

Terminals should be covered to prevent accidental arching.

Covering just the positive terminal is acceptable to prevent accident arcing; however, some states may require both terminals be covered.

Vessels with outboards are required to have battery terminals covered.

Open boats are exempted from ventilation requirements. *

1 point

True

False

What vessels are not required to carry day signals, but must carry night signals when operating from sunset to sunrise? *

1 point

A vessel participating in a regatta.

Any sailboat under 26 feet in length of completely open construction and not equipped with propulsion machinery.

Recreational boats less than 16 feet in length.

All of the above.

Which statement is false concerning Marine Sanitation Devices (MSDs)? *

1 point

Vessels 65 feet and under may install a Type I, II, or III MSD

When operating a vessel in a no discharge zone, the operator must secure the device in a manner that prevents any discharge.

Portable toilets, often referred to as port-a-potties, are considered a Type I device and are subject to the regulations.

A holding tank is a Type III device.

Which of the following additional equipment (beyond that mandated by federal or state regulations) should boaters who operate offshore carry? *

1 point

EPIRB.

An inflatable raft.

Backup radios and cell phones.

All of the above

Boats being examined on Inland Waters or waters not defined as International by the Navigation Rules must use the Inland lighting setup. *

1 point

True

False

What VHF channel is designated in most locales as the primary hailing and distress channel? *

1 point

When conducting a VSC using the ANSC 7012A, which craft are counted as Paddle craft? *

1 point

Canoes

Kayaks

Rowboats

All of the above

Some paddle craft, such as stand-up paddle boards, might not display the HIN called for on the ANSC Form 7012A, because some manufacturers have not etched it into the hull. These craft are exempt from HIN requirements. *

1 point

True

False

When checking documented vessels, the VE: *

1 point

shall verify that the documentation number is properly marked inside the hull.

shall verify the state numbers are displayed.

shall verify the name and hailing port of the boat are properly displayed on the bow.

shall verify a HIN, if required, is shown on the documentation certificate.

What statement(s) is/are true when describing wearing uniforms while doing a VSC? *

1 point

The Operational Dress Uniform (ODU) is the Uniform of the Day; however, the VE polo shirt or the hot weather uniform may be worn.

Auxiliarists shall wear a life jacket while conducting VSCs on vessels that are in the water.

When more than one vessel examiner from the same organization are performing VSCs at the same location, all participating VEs should wear the same uniform.

All of the above.

To remain certified, a VE must complete at least five VSCs and/or Auxiliary surface facility inspections each calendar year. *

1 point

True

False

If any qualified VE fails to perform the annual certification procedures within the last year, how many VSCs must be completed under the supervision of a certified VE to regain certification? *

1 point

State and local authorities must be notified within 48 hours for: *

1 point

injuries requiring less than first aid to treat.

if the damage to the vessel or property was less than $500.

death

a BUI citation was issued.

The overall condition of a fire extinguisher such as physical damage, leakage, or corrosion can be cause for disqualification. *

1 point

True

False

If an operational surface facility fails to meet requirements, the VE may receive credit for the inspection by reporting the failed inspection as a regular VSC on the current VSC reporting form. *

1 point

True

False

Which of the following is not required for a paddle craft. *

1 point

sound signal

navigation lights

one USCG approved wearable life jacket for each person aboard the vessel.

Type-IV PFD

Although not a Federal Requirement for issuing a VSC decal, which is/are true regarding anchors and anchor line? *

1 point

If equipped with an anchor, ensure it is the proper type.

A three-to-six-foot length of galvanized chain should be attached between the anchor and the anchor line.

Ideally, the anchor line should be made of nylon.

All of the above

If a boat fails to qualify for a VSC decal following the initial exam, the VE can still award the decal if the owner corrects the deficiencies within 24 hours and the VE can verify it within that time period. *

1 point

True

False

Every documented vessel must have an official number: *

1 point

Displayed near the hull identification number (HIN).

Clearly marked on the exterior of the hull.

Properly marked inside the hull.

Displayed with the state registration number on both sides of the forward half of the vessel.

What form is used to perform facility inspections and offers for use on operational surface facilities? *

1 point

7001

7002

7003

7005

Cursive script in registration letters and numbers painted on the hull are allowed as long as they are easily identifiable? *

1 point

True

False

What is the one activity the VE should do when completing a VSC examination? *

1 point

Determine measurements, such as length or beam.

Attempt to discover spots of dry rot or other deteriorated areas that are not readily apparent to the eye

Examine obvious discrepancies that might adversely affect the safety of the boat.

Help the operator calibrate electronic devices.

Certain equipment on a vessel must be Coast Guard, S.A.E. or U.L. approved to be eligible for a VSC decal. Which items must have this approval? *

1 point

Life Jackets, VDSs, Fire Extinguishers, anchors, MSDs.

Life jackets, Fire Extinguishers, First aid kits, navigation lights, MSDs.

VDSs, Life jackets, Fire extinguishers, Backfire flame arresters, MSDs.

VDSs, Fire Extinguishers, Backfire flame arresters, MSDs, Navigation lights.

Which of the following is considered failing for the overall condition of a vessel? *

1 point

Electrical switches and fuse panels are exposed to the elements.

Portable fuel tanks are constructed of a non-breakable material.

Battery terminal(s) on vessels with outboard engine is/are covered.

Wiring in good condition.

When discussing a child's life jacket, what are the recommendations the VE should explain to the boat owner/operator? *

1 point

USCG approved, and child's weight falls within the range specified on the label.

Children should be fitted with Type II life jackets, not Type III.

Parents should pick the child up by grasping the shoulders of life jacket; if it fits properly, the child's chin and ears will not slip through.

All the above

Boating accidents that result in a death must be reported to the local and state authorities within: *

1 point

Immediately

24 Hours

36 Hours

48 Hours

Which statement is false concerning life jacket use based on federal and/or state requirements? *

1 point

Children under 13 years of age must wear an approved life jacket underway unless they are below deck or within a closed cabin.

Inflatable devices are approved only for use on recreational vessels by persons at least 16 years of age.

The VE must examine every life jacket on board, regardless of whether they are needed to meet requirement that the vessel carry one for every person aboard.

Federal regulations require life jackets for racing shells, rowing sculls and racing kayaks.

All state regulations (as well as federal) must be met before a VSC decal can be awarded. *

1 point

True

False

Certified Vessel Examiners can perform VSCs? *

1 point

only in their division area of operations.

within their district.

In all 50 states and all territories of the U.S.

Only within their flotilla's area of operations

In all 50 states

If a sailing vessels less than 23 feet does not exhibit the masthead, side lights, and stern light it may have ready at hand an electric torch or lighted lantern showing a white light. *

1 point

True

False

When checking for proper ventilation, the VE should do all of the following except: *

1 point

Ensure ducts are not torn.

Check for worn components.

Check for a Certificate of Compliance for boats built after 31 May 1970.

Ensure that there are no blocked or obstructed openings that prevent free flow of fresh air.

Have the owner turn on the blower to ensure it operates properly.

The mission of the Coast Guard Auxiliary Vessel Safety Check program is? *

1 point

Voluntary compliance with federal and state recreational boating safety laws.

Provide information to vessel examiners to educate boaters.

Provide awareness of safety issues through one-on-one contact by vessel examiners.

All the above.

What type of operational facility is inspected using ANSC Form 7008? *

1 point

Twin Engine Aircraft

PWC

Sailboat

30' Cabin Cruiser

The VSC is not a complete survey of the boat. *

1 point

True

False

All PWCs do not have to have a kill-switch or self-circling mechanism. *

1 point

True

False

Boating accidents that do not result in death, injury, or disappearance must be reported to the local and state authorities: *

1 point

Immediately

Within 24 hours

Within 36 hours

Within 48 hours

Within 10 days

Auxiliarists who are also law enforcement personnel have no conflict of interest when performing VSCs. *

1 point

True

False

All vessels 26 feet and longer must carry a copy of the Navigation Rules at all times. *

1 point

True

False

Red denotes the starboard sidelight. *

1 point

True

False

To be acceptable for a VSC decal, a backfire flame control must be: *

1 point

Clean. A dirty backfire flame control will not function properly and prevent flames from exiting the carburetor.

Disassembled to check the numbers.

Suitably attached to the air intake with a flame-tight connection.

Cannot be covered with decorative cowling.

Vessel safety checks are generally performed on recreational boats: *

1 point

over 65 to 75 feet with permission from the DIRAUX district office.

up to but less than 70 feet.

under 65 feet.

up to 60 feet.

A completed ANSC 7003 should be forwarded up the chain of leadership for signatures if the vessel fails the exam. *

1 point

True

False

A vessel examiner conducting a vessel safety check must pay careful attention to the safety equipment carried on board the recreational boat that is being examined and to the condition of the gear and of the vessel itself. *

1 point

True

False

Testing dry chemical extinguishers by holding the fire extinguisher inverted and solidly hitting the base of the extinguisher with the palm of the hand several times is one method to check the extinguisher. *

1 point

True

False

Vessels, with machinery spaces, over what length must display a pollution placard (oil pollution prevention/oily waste discharge). *

1 point

14 feet

21 feet

26 feet

28 feet

39 feet

During training or recertification, the certified vessel examiner is credited with the VSC performed by the trainee. *

1 point

True

False

A placard must be displayed in a prominent location notifying the crew and passengers of discharge restrictions on vessels _____ feet or longer. *

1 point

14 feet

26 feet

28 feet

39 feet

Which of the following is false regarding Garbage Dumping Restrictions? *

1 point

Recreational vessels used exclusively in the Great Lakes may use a specifically developed placard that prohibits the dumping of garbage.

It is illegal to discharge garbage in the Great Lakes and other navigable waters of the United States.

Only one placard can be placed on a vessel.

For vessels requiring a written waste management plan, a person must be designated in writing for carrying out the plan.

At least one wearable Life Jacket (PFD) for each person on board a recreational vessel must be on board to meet VSC requirements for boats that are: *

1 point

Less than 16' in length.

26' or greater in length.

40' or greater in length.

All vessels

Which statement is false about life jackets PFDs? *

1 point

Inflatable jackets are the most lightweight and comfortable.

Boaters should buy life jackets that are appropriate for their body size and planned activities.

A near shore life jacket is a Type-II.

Ring Buoys are classified as a Type-III.

Auxiliary Facility "INSPECTIONS" are: *

1 point

approved by the Flotilla Commander first.

approved by the Division Commander first.

only done by a qualified Auxiliary Vessel Examiner.

done with the approval of the DIRAUX officer first.

A dirty backfire flame arrestor will not function properly and will allow flames to exit the carburetor. *

1 point

True

False

What must the VE look for when examining the Visual Distress Signals? *

1 point

Not past its expiration date

Properly stowed and readily accessible

VDS must be in serviceable condition

All the above

Which boat is required to have an acceptable means of backfire flame control? *

1 point

gasoline powered engine installed before 25 Apr 1940.

diesel powered inboard engine

gasoline powered outboard engine

gasoline powered inboard/outboard engine

All of the following are true on documented vessels except. *

1 point

The document identifies the nationality of the vessel.

The document identifies the authorized use of the vessel.

All pleasure vessels that are at least 5 tons must be documented with the Coast Guard.

The Certificate of Documentation must be carried on board at all times.

A VSC is being performed on 19' boat equipped with a 150 horsepower out-board motor. The capacity plate shows a maximum horsepower rating of 90. The VE should: *

1 point

Award the decal but advise the boater that the Boat/motor combination is unsafe.

Award the decal since boat horsepower and capacity plates are not VSC requirements.

Withhold the decal and advise the boater that the boat/motor combination is unsafe.

Award the decal since horsepower and capacity plates are not VSC requirements, but advise the boater that the boat/motor combination is unsafe.

Excessive high or low readings on the gauge of a fire extinguisher can be a cause for disqualification. *

1 point

True

False

All paddle craft must always have a Hull Identification Number (HIN) on the front part of the vessel in order to receive a VSC decal. *

1 point

True

False

A recreational vessel less than 65 feet should monitor channel 16 if a VHF-FM radio is carried onboard. *

1 point

True. Only if the radio is on and not locally directed to use channel 9.

False. It is at the discretion of the operator.

Only if it is an Operational Facility.

Only if required to have an FCC license.

Which of the following is not an USCG approved Visual Distress Signal Device? *

1 point

Electric distress light (flashing SOS).

Handheld orange smoke.

Orange flag with black square and ball.

Inverted flag.

The overall condition of a vessel can make a vessel fail a VSC. *

1 point

True

False

All operational surface facilities must only meet the operational facility inspection requirements found in Chapter 6 of the Vessel Safety Manual, COMDTINST M16796.8 series. *

1 point

True

False

What is a MSD? *

1 point

Maritime Surveillance Device

Maritime Sanitary Device

Marine Sanitation Device

Mechanical Sanitary Device

Recreational boats with installed heads (MSD) are required to have: *

1 point

a Type-I, -II, or -III MSD if 65 feet or under.

a Type-III MSD to recirculate waste.

a means to secure a Type-III device to prevent any discharge.

a Type-I, -II, or -III MSD if under 39.9 feet.

How many Type-IV PFDs are required for a 30-foot vessel with five people aboard? *

1 point

While checking a 23' stern drive boat, you see a fixed fire extinguisher with a current inspection tag. However, the boat doesn't have any other fire extinguishers onboard. Can you issue the VSC decal? *

1 point

No, all motorboats with inboard engines must carry at least one B-1 fire extinguisher.

No, since VE's are not able to check fixed fire suppression systems.

Yes, discuss the consequences of insufficient firefighting capabilities and the advantages of carrying extra fire protection.

Yes, first you have to make sure that the red light goes on at the alarm panel when you press the fixed system test button.

Operational Facilities must carry __________ above the number required for facility size? *

1 point

2 extra portable fire extinguishers.

1 type B-I and 1 type B-II extra fire extinguishers.

1 extra portable fire extinguisher.

2 B-II type extra fire extinguishers.

Some of the recommended items are mandated by law in some states. *

1 point

True

False

It is the duty of a VE to report any violations found during the VSC to a law enforcement agency. *

1 point

True

False

For initial certification, how many vessel safety checks (VSCs) must be completed by a trainee under the observation of a certified VE? *

1 point

Boats under 16 feet are not required to have navigation lights installed; however, if lights have been installed, they must work properly. *

1 point

True

False

Portable toilets are not considered installed MSD devices and are not subject to regulations. *

1 point

True

False

All old VSC decals must be either removed or the new decal must be placed directly over the old decal. *

1 point

True

False

The direct discharge of untreated sewage is allowed within 3 NM of shore. *

1 point

True

False

Which of the following category of vessels cannot receive a vessel safety check? *

1 point

Personal Watercraft (PWC)

Government owned recreational boats

Government owned patrol boats

Uninspected commercial vessels

To remain certified, vessel examiners must complete at least how many vessel safety checks and/or Auxiliary surface facility inspections each calendar year? *

1 point

Ten (10)

Five (5)

Three (3)

Two (2)

Which ANSC Form is used when conducting a vessel safety check for paddle boards? *

1 point

ANSC Form 70l2A

ANSC Form 7012

ANSC Form 7003

ANSC Form 7008

To qualify for a vessel safety check decal, a recreational boat must only meet compliance for safety equipment and environmental regulations; including good condition of the vessel and the gear it carries. *

1 point

True

False

All boats equipped with propulsion machinery (engines) can only be registered by the Coast Guard. *

1 point

True

False

The registration and numbers displayed on each side of the forward half of the vessel must be at least how high? *

1 point

Two Inches

Five Inches

Three Inches

Any size or height as long as they are clearly visible

Which of the information below is not on a state registration certificate or certificate of number? *

1 point

Owner information

State of principal operation

Hull identification number

Official documentation number

Which of the following the requirements is false for use of life jackets? *

1 point

Must be water resistant and have reflective material

Properly stored on board the boat

In good and serviceable condition

U.S. Coast Guard approved

Federal law does not require the use of life jackets for racing shells, rowing sculls, and racing kayaks. *

1 point

True

False

Which of the following vessels are not required to carry day signals, but must carry night signals when operating from sunset to sunrise? *

1 point

Power driven recreational boat greater than 16 feet in length.

A sailboat equipped with propulsion machinery.

A manually propelled boat.

A cabin cruiser 35 feet in length.

Which of the following is considered as a USCG approved visual distress day signal? *

1 point

Waterproof Flashlight

Buoyant Red Smoke

SOS Flashing Light

Handheld orange smoke

Which of the following boats are required to carry fire extinguishers? *

1 point

All boats with closed compartments and compartments under seats where portable fuel tanks can be stored.

All boats with double bottoms that are not sealed to the hull or are not completely filled with flotation materials.

All boats with closed stowage compartments in which combustible or flammable materials are stowed.

All the above.

Every boat with a gasoline engine installed in a vessel after 25 April 1940, including outboard motors, shall be equipped with an acceptable means of backfire flame control? *

1 point

True

False

A masthead navigation light means a white light placed over the fore and aft centerline of the boat showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of how many degrees? *

1 point

112.5 Degrees

225 Degrees

22.5 Degrees

135 Degrees

Which of the following require an efficient sound signaling device (whistle) to comply with the Navigation Rules? *

1 point

boat length 39.4 feet or more

personal watercraft

vessels of less than 39.4 feet

All of the above

Which vessels must carry a Type-IV PFD? *

1 point

Power vessel over 26 feet

Any boat 16 feet or over (except canoes and kayaks)

Canoes, rowboats and kayaks, and boats over 16 feet

All vessels

For what reason may a qualified vessel examiner lose their Vessel Examiner certification? *

1 point

The member has failed any exam.

The member has not paid their dues.

The member did not complete specific, mandated workshop.

The member performed 5 vessel exams, but not all 5 were passing.

In some states, a Coast Guard documented vessel must display a state issued validation sticker? *

1 point

True

False

Which of the following is considered a correct method to display state numbers? *

1 point

MN-5678JJ

MN5678 JJ

MN 5678 JJ

MN5678JJ

Every documented vessel must have an official number... *

1 point

clearly marked on the exterior structural hull

displayed under the engine hatch cover to be easily seen

marked by any permanent method in some clearly visible interior structural part of the hull

posted near the helm

For security reasons, float plans should be filed with the Coast Guard or other first responders and not be given to a friend relative or local marina operator before the vessel gets underway. *

1 point

True

False

Engine Cutoff Switch Section : The reference for these questions is the “Coast Guard Announces New Law Requiring Use of Engine Cut-off Switches” article in the Coast Guard News. Note: Recommend using the following link. It takes one directly to the Coast Guard News. Coast Guard Announces New Law Requiring Use of Engine Cut-off Switches | Coast Guard News

https://coastguardnews.com/coast-guard-announces-new-law-requiring-use-of-engine-cut-off-switches/2021/03/10/

Operators of recreational vessels _____________ will be required to use an engine cut-off switch (ECOS) and associated ECOS link (ECOSL) as of April 1, 2021, as the U.S. Coast Guard implements a law passed by Congress. *

1 point

less than 65 feet in length

less than 26 feet in length

greater than 26 feet in length

all recreational vessels regardless of length.

A wireless engine cut-off switch (ECOS) can be used to satisfy the engine cut-off switch (ECOS) and associated ECOS link (ECOSL) law. *

1 point

True

False

The engine cut-off switch is designed to prevent serious danger due to runaway boats to which group of people? *

1 point

ejected operator

others on the waterway

first responders

all of the above

Section 503 of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 required manufacturers of covered recreational boats (less than 26 feet in length, with an engine capable of 115 lbs. of static thrust) to equip the vessel with an ECOS installed as of December 2019. If installed, the owner is required to: *

1 point

Start the engine and demonstrate that the cuttoff is operational at time of vessel safety check.

Owners of recreational vessels produced after December 2019 are required to maintain the ECOS on their vessel in a serviceable condition.

Show the vessel examiner the updated owners manual.

Take the vessel examiner for a ride.

There are (2) Laws. Section 8316 of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2021 requires individuals operating covered recreational vessels (less than 26 feet in length, with an engine capable of 115 lbs. of static thrust; 3 HP or more) to use ECOS “links.” Using the ECOSL is required only when the primary helm is: *

1 point

Using the ECOSL is required only when the primary helm is not within an enclosed cabin

When the boat is operating on plane or above displacement speed.

All the Above

Which common situation would not require the use of an Emergency Cut-Off Switch (ECOS) system? *

1 point

operating on a plane

primary helm is within an enclosed cabin

operating in a no-wake zone

operating above displacement speed

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