What must the POOW do before inclement weather?

The correct action for the Petty Officer of the Watch to take before inclement weather is to check and confirm the operational readiness of safety equipment. This is crucial because the safety of crew members and the vessel itself can be significantly compromised during adverse weather conditions. Ensuring that all safety equipment is operational means that the crew will be prepared to respond effectively to any emergencies that may arise, such as flooding or man overboard situations.

By verifying that life jackets, lifeboats, distress signals, and other critical equipment are in proper working order, the POOW helps ensure that all personnel are prepared for unexpected situations. This proactive step can mitigate risks and enhance overall safety aboard the vessel when facing inclement weather.

In contrast, while notifying the crew to prepare emergency supplies is important, the immediate priority is verifying that safety equipment is fully operational. Casual inspections of personal belongings or postponing all planned activities on deck might be relevant responses to certain situations but do not address the critical safety aspects needed in harsh weather conditions.