What must a certificated lifeboatman in command of a lifeboat have?

• A. A list of the persons assigned to the lifeboat.
• B. A radio license.
• C. A medical certificate.
• D. A whistle and flare kit.

Answer: (A)

The essential thing a certificated lifeboatman in command must have is a current list of the persons assigned to the lifeboat. This muster list provides a clear, official record of everyone aboard, which is crucial for accountability during an evacuation and as operations proceed. It helps the lifeboat commander ensure no one is left behind, manage safety and medical needs, and communicate accurate passenger numbers to rescue coordinators or the ship’s master.

Other items are important in their own right, but they do not fulfill this specific accountability requirement. A radio license is tied to operating radio equipment and is handled by the ship’s designated radio operator. A medical certificate is about overall fitness for duty, not a document carried specifically for lifeboat operations. A whistle and flare kit are part of standard signaling and survival gear, but they do not provide the survivor roll call needed for orderly rescue and disembarkation.