What should you do to avoid colliding with another vessel?

Keeping a proper lookout for other vessels at all times is essential for safe boating practices. This involves using your eyes and ears to observe your surroundings and be aware of other boats, navigational markers, and potential hazards. By maintaining a vigilant lookout, you significantly reduce the risk of collisions because you can anticipate the movements of other vessels and take appropriate action to avoid them.

Being aware of your environment allows you to identify other boats that may be coming into your path, giving you time to react by changing your speed or direction if necessary. This proactive approach is crucial, especially in busy waterways or areas with many other boats.

The other options do not contribute positively to collision avoidance. Increasing speed near other boats can create dangerous situations, as it reduces reaction time if another vessel suddenly appears. Turning off navigation lights can make your vessel less visible to others and increase the danger of collisions, especially at night or in poor visibility conditions. Following the shoreline may limit your maneuverability and does not guarantee safety from other vessels that may also be near the shore. Thus, maintaining a proper lookout is the most effective preventative measure against potential collisions on the water.