What is the procedure for securing machinery after a fire has been reported?

The procedure for securing machinery after a fire has been reported emphasizes the principle of ensuring safety first. The correct response underscores the importance of assessing the situation before taking action. It is critical to secure machinery only when it is deemed safe to do so, which allows for a careful evaluation of the fire's status and potential hazards.

This approach recognizes that shutting down machinery prematurely may create additional risks, such as inhibiting firefighting efforts or interfering with the ability to navigate the vessel effectively. Moreover, the immediate environment may still pose dangers; a careful assessment ensures that crew members do not put themselves at further risk.

In contrast, other options may imply actions that do not prioritize the safety assessment. For instance, shutting down machinery immediately could contribute to chaos or could affect crucial systems needed for effective fire response. Similarly, securing machinery only upon instruction or maintaining power until confirmed safe might lead to miscommunication or delayed action, which can exacerbate the situation during a fire emergency.