Towing safety.

Prior to getting underway, and giving due consideration to the prevailing and expected conditions of the trip or voyage, the officer in charge of the navigational watch for a towing vessel must ensure that: (a) The barges, vessels, or objects making up the tow are properly configured and secured; (b) Equipment, cargo, and industrial components on board the tow are properly secured and made ready for transit; (c) The towing vessel is safely and securely made up to the tow; and (d) The towing vessel has appropriate horsepower or bollard pull and is capable of safely maneuvering the tow.