What action should you take if your tow sinks in shallow water?

Correct Answer: Option D — pay out cable until it's on the bottom and place a buoy on the upper end

If a tow sinks in shallow water, paying out cable until it rests on the bottom prevents the dead weight from hanging suspended and dragging the tug backward. Marking the upper end with a lighted buoy ensures navigational safety and allows subsequent salvage operations.