During what level of hurricane preparations should the gyrocompass be turned on?

The gyrocompass should be turned on during Level 4 hurricane preparations. This level signifies that the storm is imminent, and readiness measures are being put into place. Activating the gyrocompass early in the preparation phase is critical because it provides accurate heading information essential for navigation, particularly when dealing with rough seas and possible loss of other navigational aids.

At this stage, having reliable navigational equipment can enhance the safety measures being implemented, ensuring the vessel can respond effectively to changing conditions. Proper functioning of the gyrocompass helps maintain situational awareness and ensures that maneuvers to avoid the hurricane can be executed efficiently.

Each subsequent level of preparation entails different risk assessments and actions, where navigational accuracy becomes increasingly vital as conditions deteriorate. Thus, Level 4 represents a crucial point where prioritizing operational readiness is essential.