Your vessel has run hard aground in an area subject to heavy wave action. Backing full astern failed to free her. Which action should be taken next?

Correct Answer: Option C — Flood empty tanks to increase bottom pressure and prevent inshore creep.

When hard aground in heavy surf, rising tides and wave action can drive a vessel further shoreward or structurally damage the hull. Flooding empty tanks temporarily increases ground reaction and draft, anchoring the hull securely to prevent inshore creep until salvage assets arrive.