If you encounter a fog bank while on the water, what should you do first?

When you encounter a fog bank while on the water, the first step is to sound your horn and proceed with caution. This approach is crucial for several reasons. Fog significantly reduces visibility, making it difficult to see other vessels, navigational aids, and potential hazards. By sounding your horn, you are alerting other boaters to your presence, which is essential for safety in low-visibility conditions.

Proceeding with caution allows you to navigate more safely and make better decisions as you assess the situation. Maintaining a slower speed gives you more time to react to any unexpected obstacles or oncoming traffic. This balanced approach also helps prevent accidents that could occur if you were to speed through the fog without taking appropriate precautions.

While turning around and heading back to shore may seem like a safe option, it could lead to panic or disorientation in low visibility. Dropping anchor could potentially leave you at risk in open water if the current or winds shift. Thus, sounding your horn and proceeding with caution is the most proactive and safe response to navigating through fog.