Distress behavior cues?

• A. People acting calm and not signaling
• B. Passengers yelling to attract attention
• C. The vessel's engine humming normally
• D. Everyone wearing PFDs

Answer: (B)

Distress behavior cues are actions that indicate someone on board needs help and is trying to attract attention. Yelling to attract attention is a clear distress cue because it signals an immediate need for rescue or assistance. It tells others that someone is in trouble and requires a response. In contrast, calm behavior, a normally operating engine, or everyone wearing PFDs are not distress signals themselves—they represent normalcy or safety readiness, not an active call for help. When you notice distress cues like someone shouting for help, respond promptly by locating the source, providing assistance, and using proper distress signaling (such as radio on Channel 16 or appropriate signaling devices) to summon aid.