If your vessel is in distress and you are asked to give a LONG COUNT, what should you do?

In a situation where a vessel is in distress and you are asked to give a LONG COUNT, the correct action is to key your mic and speak for about 10 seconds. This method is used in radio communications to provide a clear and concise distress signal.

The terminology "LONG COUNT" refers to using a specific length of transmission to ensure that your call is received clearly by others monitoring the radio frequencies. Speaking for around 10 seconds allows enough time for your message to be captured while also maintaining clarity so that those listening can quickly respond to the distress situation. This method balances the need to convey urgency with the practical limits of radio communication, as excessively long transmissions can lead to confusion and radio congestion.

The other options, while potentially useful in different contexts, do not align with the specific protocol associated with a LONG COUNT. For instance, speaking for 30 seconds may lead to unnecessary delays and could detract from the urgency of your distress signal. Immediate distress signals without additional context can also be misunderstood, making it essential to follow the correct protocol in such situations. Waiting for further instructions can result in critical time lost when immediate communication is needed to ensure safety and effective response.