What immediate action should you take if you hear the fog signal of another boat you cannot see?

When you hear the fog signal of another boat that you cannot see, the appropriate action is to slow to minimum speed. This response is critical because it enhances safety for you and other vessels in the vicinity. Reducing speed allows for better control of your boat and gives you more time to assess your surroundings. In conditions of reduced visibility, such as fog, it is crucial to navigate cautiously to prevent collisions.

Slowing down ensures that you can react appropriately to any potential hazards that may come into your line of sight as the fog thickens or clears. It also minimizes the risk of making sudden maneuvers, which could be dangerous in low visibility. Maintaining a slow speed allows you to hear and identify the fog signals of nearby vessels more effectively, providing additional information that can guide your navigation.

Other responses, such as speeding up or anchoring, could lead to increased risk. Speeding up may temporarily distance you from danger but could also result in unforeseen hazards that you might not see in time to react appropriately. Anchoring could be problematic if other vessels are nearby and navigating to avoid you, as it could restrict their ability to maneuver safely. Changing course drastically could lead to confusion for others navigating the same area and increases the chance of collision. Therefore,