What must the Officer of the Deck confirm when thunderstorms are in the forecast?

The Officer of the Deck has the responsibility to ensure the safety and operational readiness of the ship, particularly during adverse weather conditions such as thunderstorms. When thunderstorms are in the forecast, it is crucial for the Officer of the Deck to implement the heavy weather bill. This plan outlines the specific procedures and actions that the ship must take to secure itself and prepare for potential heavy weather impacts.

The heavy weather bill includes critical measures such as stowing loose gear, securing hatchways, and ensuring that all personnel are briefed on safety protocols. It is a comprehensive response plan designed to mitigate risks associated with severe weather, thus protecting the ship, its crew, and cargo from potential damage.

In contrast, while confirming other actions like the heave anchor procedure, general quarters, or a ship’s readiness check can be important in specific contexts, they do not directly address the particular dangers posed by thunderstorms in the same structured way that the heavy weather bill does. The focus on the heavy weather bill ensures that the ship is appropriately prepared to handle the challenges presented by thunderstorms.