Which statement about radar equipment is true?

Which statement about radar equipment is true?

• A. Radar equipment is optional and should be used only in calm seas.
• B. Radar is irrelevant to navigation in narrow channels.
• C. Radar should be switched off in heavy traffic.
• D. A vessel equipped with radar must use this equipment to obtain early warning of risk of collision.

Answer: (D)

Radar gives you real-time information on other ships’ positions and movements, so using it when it’s fitted is required to obtain early warning of any risk of collision. This early warning lets you assess potential crossing or overtaking situations and act in time to avoid a collision, which is exactly what the rules expect you to do. The others miss the mark because radar isn’t optional if you have it, it isn’t irrelevant in a narrow channel, and you shouldn’t switch it off in heavy traffic—keeping the radar on enhances safety and helps you stay ahead of danger.

Radar gives you real-time information on other ships’ positions and movements, so using it when it’s fitted is required to obtain early warning of any risk of collision. This early warning lets you assess potential crossing or overtaking situations and act in time to avoid a collision, which is exactly what the rules expect you to do. The others miss the mark because radar isn’t optional if you have it, it isn’t irrelevant in a narrow channel, and you shouldn’t switch it off in heavy traffic—keeping the radar on enhances safety and helps you stay ahead of danger.