Where shall muster stations be provided?

Muster stations are critical components of a vessel's emergency preparedness plan, designed to ensure that crew and passengers can be effectively gathered and accounted for in the event of an emergency. The correct answer emphasizes that muster stations should be located close to embarkation stations. This proximity is essential for efficient evacuation during an emergency, as individuals can quickly transition from the muster station to the embarkation point where lifeboats or life rafts are deployed.

Being near embarkation stations helps streamline the process, ensuring that all personnel are accounted for and can board evacuation vessels swiftly. The strategic placement of muster stations minimizes the time spent in evacuation procedures, which is crucial for safety in emergencies.

In contrast, locations such as the engine room, upper deck, and galley do not provide the optimal accessibility and quick exit strategies needed during an urgent situation, thereby making them less suitable choices for muster stations.