What is the initial action to be taken if a collision is imminent?

The initial action to be taken if a collision is imminent is to pipe an alert regarding the object. This action is crucial because it immediately informs the crew of the potential danger, allowing them to assess the situation and respond appropriately. Piping an alert serves as a timely notification that can help ensure that all hands are aware of the imminent threat and can take specific actions to avoid or mitigate the collision.

Piping an alert typically involves sounding alarms or making announcements that alert crew members to the danger, helping to maintain situational awareness and enabling a cohesive response to the threat. This proactive communication is essential in a high-stress situation where quick decisions and teamwork are needed to navigate away from danger or prepare for impact.

Other actions, such as engaging emergency steering or securing machinery, may follow based on the situation's evolution, but the priority is to first alert the crew, so everyone is aware and can contribute to preventing a collision. Sounding the general alarm can also be a necessary follow-up action, but the immediate step to address the threat involves clearly conveying information about the object at risk of collision.