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USCG Exam PracticeDanger bearings and danger circles

A danger circle is scribed on the chart around a submerged rock at a radius equal to the minimum safe passing distance. The danger bearing is then drawn from a lighthouse to this circle. What is the purpose of using the danger circle rather than drawing the line directly to the rock itself?

  1. A. To ensure the bearing line crosses the DR track at a right angle for maximum accuracy
  2. To incorporate a margin of safety so the vessel passes at a safe distance rather than merely clearing the charted hazard positionCorrect
  3. C. To allow the bearing to be used as a line of position for a simultaneous fix
  4. D. To convert the danger bearing into a running fix reference

Why B is correct

Bowditch Ch. 7 §706 specifies that the danger circle is scribed at a safe distance around the hazard, meaning the danger bearing built to that circle keeps the vessel a defined safe margin away from the hazard rather than just clearing its charted edge.

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A danger circle is scribed on the chart around a submerged rock at… — USCG Exam Practice · CaptainsGround