What are two key obligations of a coxswain regarding the boat?

A coxswain plays a pivotal role in the safe operation and management of a boat, and two of the primary obligations they hold are cleanliness and readiness for service.

Cleanliness is essential as it ensures that the boat remains in optimal condition for operation, reducing the risk of accidents caused by clutter or debris. A clean boat also helps maintain equipment and can prevent issues that could arise from neglect.

Readiness for service indicates that the boat and its operations are fully prepared for any mission or task. This requires not just physical cleanliness but also ensuring that all equipment is functional, safety gear is available, and the boat is seaworthy. A coxswain must always ensure that the vessel is in a state where it can immediately respond to any orders or emergencies, reflecting the importance of maintaining high standards for operational readiness.

The other choices, while related to various aspects of boat operation, do not encapsulate the central responsibilities of a coxswain in the same way that cleanliness and readiness for service do. Hence, these obligations are fundamental to the coxswain’s role.