What action should a vessel take if a risk of collision is identified?

When a vessel identifies a risk of collision, it is essential to take large and apparent actions to avoid the situation. This means making clear and decisive maneuvers that will reduce the chance of an accident. The principles of good seamanship dictate that actions taken to avoid collision should be easily recognizable to other vessels. This allows for shared understanding among mariners about the intended maneuvers, ensuring that other vessels can accurately predict the movements and adjust accordingly.

Taking large and apparent actions enhances safety by allowing other operators to gauge the intention behind the maneuver and react appropriately. This is especially important in busy and crowded navigational areas where rapid decisions are often necessary. Acknowledging the risk and proactively addressing it through significant adjustments to course or speed is crucial for the safety of all vessels involved.

In contrast, ignoring the situation or maintaining the current path could lead to a dangerous scenario. Drastic changes in course and speed can also be risky if not executed properly or if they are not readily apparent to others on the water. Thus, opting for clear and decisive maneuvers stands as the recommended practice when confronted with potential collision risks.