What is the appropriate action to take if a fire alarm sounds while at the gangway?

When a fire alarm sounds while at the gangway, the most appropriate action is to secure the area and assist with evacuation. This is crucial for ensuring the safety of all personnel and visitors, as an alarm indicates a potential fire situation that needs immediate attention.

By securing the area, you help maintain a controlled environment and prevent any further risks or dangers that may arise from panic or unorganized movement. Assisting with evacuation allows for a systematic approach to ensuring everyone, including visitors, is moved to a safe location. This proactive measure is a key responsibility of a Gangway Petty Officer of the Watch, who must prioritize safety and follow emergency protocols.

Continuing regular duties without interruption disregards the alarm's significance and could endanger lives. Ignoring the alarm and waiting for further instructions could lead to confusion and chaos, compromising the safety of those in the vicinity. While evacuating all visitors immediately might seem like a decisive action, it's important to first secure the area and ensure that the evacuation process is orderly and controlled.