or manoeuvred to avoid any sudden danger. The faster the speed, the greater the safe distance must be. When altering course make your intentions clear to others as early as possible. NOTE: In a collision, all masters involved can be held responsible even if the give-way vessel does not give way, because all masters are required to exercise caution and take avoiding action if the other vessel does not. Sound signals Special sound signals exist for vessels to indicate their manoeuvring intentions when they are in sight of one another. 1 short blast I am altering course to starboard (the right). 2 short blasts I am altering course to port (the left). 3 short blasts I am operating engines astern (stopping/slowing). 5 short blasts I am unsure of your intentions and I doubt whether you are taking sufficient action to avoid collision. Power gives way to sail A power driven vessel must give way to a sailing vessel unless the sailing vessel is in the process of overtaking it. Power driven vessels meeting head on When two power driven vessels meet head on, each must alter course to starboard (to the right) and pass at a safe distance. Power driven vessels crossing In crossing situations, give way to the right. Action to avoid collision The give-way vessel must avoid a collision by changing course substantially, by slowing down, or stopping and allowing the vessel which has right of way to pass clear ahead. This must be done as early as