What should a vessel's crew do if they see a distress signal from another vessel?

When a vessel's crew observes a distress signal from another vessel, the appropriate response is to prepare to assist if it is safe to do so. This is in line with the obligations of mariners under maritime law and the international convention on the safety of life at sea (SOLAS). Providing assistance to those in distress is not only a matter of legal and ethical responsibility; it also reinforces the maritime principle of mutual aid among seafarers.

In practice, the crew should assess the situation to determine the safety of their own vessel and crew before embarking on any rescue attempt. Factors such as weather conditions, the condition of the distressed vessel, and the potential risks involved must be considered. If it is safe, the crew can take necessary actions to assist the distressed vessel, which may include alerting rescue authorities or providing direct assistance.

Other responses do not align with the expected conduct. For instance, ignoring the signal or merely recording it fails to acknowledge the urgency of a distress situation, while signaling back without taking further action could lead to misunderstandings and may not help those in need. Continuing on course without intervention is contrary to the maritime community's duty to assist those in distress and could lead to loss of life or further peril for the affected vessel.