What should you do if you see a distress signal but cannot offer assistance without putting your vessel at risk?

When you see a distress signal but determine that offering assistance would put your vessel or crew at risk, the appropriate course of action is to notify the nearest authorities who can provide help. This is important because professional rescuers have the training, equipment, and resources to handle emergency situations safely.

Ignoring the distress signal is irresponsible and could lead to tragic consequences for those in need. Turning your vessel around might seem like a solution, but it does not ensure that help will arrive in a timely manner. Signaling back to the distressed vessel could create confusion or delay the assistance they require, especially if you're not equipped to help them directly. By notifying the authorities, you ensure that trained personnel are dispatched to the scene, providing the best chance of rescue while keeping your own vessel safe.