If an underwater shock is expected, what action should you take to reduce personal injury risks?

The action of lying prone on the deck is effective in reducing personal injury risks during an underwater shock because it minimizes your exposure to potential hazards. When in a prone position, your body is lower to the ground, which can provide several advantages. First, it helps stabilize your posture, reducing the chance of being thrown or impacted by debris or shock waves. Additionally, being closer to the ground can provide a lower profile, making you less susceptible to flying objects and minimizing the risk of injury from those impacts.

While other options may suggest protective stances, they don't offer the same degree of stability or protection against the unique dangers that can arise from an underwater shock. For instance, curling up may not adequately shield your body against sudden shifts or flying debris, and holding on to a structure requires a specific solid point of contact, which may not always be available or practical. Finally, standing clear of structures could lead to exposure to more hazards, as you may be less stable and more likely to be impacted by the shock's aftereffects. Therefore, lying prone on the deck is a strategy that effectively minimizes risks associated with underwater shock events.