An inflatable liferaft is floating in its container, attached to the ship by its painter, as the ship is sinking rapidly. Which action should be taken with respect to the liferaft container?

Correct Answer: Option B — Take no action as the pull on the painter will cause the liferaft to inflate and open the container.

As the vessel sinks, hydrostatic pressure or manual release allows the painter to pay out. The tension generated by the sinking vessel automatically trips the CO2 cylinders, inflating the liferaft and causing it to break free from its container as the weak link parts.