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?
- A. To ensure the bearing line crosses the DR track at a right angle for maximum accuracy
- ✓ To incorporate a margin of safety so the vessel passes at a safe distance rather than merely clearing the charted hazard positionCorrect
- C. To allow the bearing to be used as a line of position for a simultaneous fix
- 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.
Cited:Bowditch Ch. 7 §706