United States Coast Guard Captains License Practice Exam

A power-driven vessel pushing ahead or towing alongside should display which lights?

1. Two all-around red lights where they can best be seen

2. Two towing lights in a vertical line

3. Two forward masthead lights in a vertical line

4. A single white light forward

The correct answer is: Two forward masthead lights in a vertical line

A power-driven vessel pushing ahead or towing alongside is required to display two forward masthead lights in a vertical line. This configuration is crucial for maintaining proper visibility and communication of the vessel’s status to other mariners. The two masthead lights indicate that the vessel is engaged in operations not just as a standalone power-driven vessel but also signifies that it is either pushing another vessel or towing. The positioning of these lights in a vertical line helps distinguish them from other types of vessels and notifies other vessels of the operational status, which is vital for navigational safety. The use of two forward masthead lights also follows the regulations set out by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). These regulations are specifically designed to help prevent accidents on the water by clearly indicating the presence and actions of vessels. Understanding the signaling systems used by vessels is essential for maintaining safe navigation, especially when operating in busy waterways.