What should a vessel do if necessary to avoid a collision?

A vessel must take appropriate action to avoid a collision, and one effective method to achieve this is to slack her speed or stop her propulsion. Slowing down or stopping can create additional time and space to assess the situation, allowing for better decision-making. It also helps prevent a collision by reducing the vessel's speed, which in turn lessens the impact of any potential collision and provides options for maneuvering.

Maintaining speed without considering the risk can lead to dangerous situations, especially if the other vessel is on a collision course. Taking no action when another vessel is approaching is contrary to the responsibilities outlined in the COLREGs, which expressly require vessels to take steps to avoid collisions. Simply shouting warnings does not provide an effective means of preventing a collision if no other actions are taken to alter course or speed. Thus, reducing speed or stopping when necessary aligns well with the principles of safe navigation and is critical for collision avoidance.