What are the primary responsibilities of a lookout?

The primary responsibility of a lookout is to search for objects in the water and/or sky. This role is critical for ensuring the safety of the vessel and its crew by providing early warnings about potential hazards, such as other ships, obstacles, weather conditions, or navigational markers. The lookout's vigilance helps in avoiding accidents and maintaining safe navigation, which is vital for the effective operation of any maritime vessel. This task requires constant attention and the ability to quickly report any sightings to the crew, enabling timely decision-making in response to potential dangers.