On a vessel equipped with marine propulsion gas turbines, the operators initial response to a high vibration alarm should be to _________.

Correct Answer: Option B — reduce the engine speed

High vibration alarms signify potential mechanical imbalance, bearing failure, or foreign object damage. Reducing engine speed immediately lowers the centrifugal forces acting on the rotating assembly, minimizing further mechanical damage while the operator assesses the situation. This is the standard protective response to maintain structural integrity during an abnormal event.