The skipper assesses: one crew member mildly hypothermic, possible forestay damage, 10cm of bilge water (pumped down), 12nm from harbour, Force 7. Which distress category is appropriate?

A. No call required — the vessel is making way and the crew member is aboard

B. Mayday — any crew in the water event requires a Mayday call regardless of outcome

C. Pan Pan (URGENCY) is correct — there is a potential threat to vessel/crew safety but no immediate life-threatening situation. Use Ch16 format: "Pan Pan, Pan Pan, Pan Pan, All Stations, this is RESOLUTE [MMSI], position [lat/long], crew injury, rig damage, proceeding to [harbour], require medical advice, 4 POB." Upgrade to Mayday if situation deteriorates

D. Sécurité — warn other vessels about the squall conditions

A. Release the mainsheet immediately — reducing sail power is the priority to prevent full knockdown. A free mainsheet allows the main to depowering (luff). Simultaneously steer to head up into wind if possible. Every second of full sail pressure at 70° heel risks the mast hitting the water

B. Apply full helm to bear away downwind — this immediately levels the boat

C. Radio the Coastguard — they need to know immediately before the capsize occurs

D. Hold course and speed — the squall will pass in seconds and the yacht will right herself without action

A. All crew move to the windward side — their weight will right the vessel faster

B. Account for all crew — confirm everyone is either aboard or on a safety line. Then: ease all sheets completely so sails cannot fill when she rights. The boat will usually self-right from 90° when sails are freed. Do not start the engine until the righting is confirmed and no lines are near the prop

C. Deploy the liferaft immediately — a knockdown flat is a capsize and the vessel must be abandoned

D. Start the engine and motor out of the heel — thrust will right the vessel