During the last SAFETY4SEA Singapore Forum, Harry Hirst, Partner & Master Mariner, Ince & Co highlighted that in order to avoid a collision, a vessel must first detect and then observe and plot the approach of the other vessel so as to make a proper appraisal of the situation and risk of collision in order to be able to take timely and positive avoiding action. To allow time for a proper appraisal and effective avoiding action it is important also, that the vessel is proceeding at an appropriate – or safe - speed.