Final answer:
When approaching a mooring buoy, it is important to a) approach slowly to avoid running over the mooring line or buoy.
Step-by-step explanation:
When approaching a mooring buoy, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure safe navigation. The correct approach is option a. Approach slowly, so as not to run over the mooring line or buoy.
By approaching slowly, you give yourself enough time to assess the situation and avoid any potential hazards. Approaching the mooring buoy from the opposite direction of the moored boats, as mentioned in option b, is incorrect as it can lead to collisions with the boats already moored.
Option c, attaching extra line to the mooring buoy to reduce the chance of dragging, is unnecessary and can create additional complications. Lastly, keeping the boat in gear in order to provide steerage if you miss the buoy, as stated in option d, is not a recommended practice as it can lead to accidents and damage to the boat.