To ensure the vessel is floating free, which of the following precautions should be taken?

To ensure the vessel is floating free, it's essential to take soundings and slack off the mooring lines. Taking soundings around the vessel helps to assess the water depth, ensuring that there is sufficient clearance below the keel to prevent grounding. This is particularly important during certain conditions, such as changes in tide or water levels, which could affect the vessel's stability.

By slacking off the mooring lines, you allow the vessel to move freely without the risk of being restrained, which can lead to potential stresses on the vessel's hull or mooring equipment. This freedom of movement is crucial for the vessel to maintain its stability and avoid capsizing or tilting due to external forces such as waves or wind.

Ensuring both soundings are taken and mooring lines are slack creates a situation where the vessel can safely and effectively respond to its environment while still being anchored or moored. This combination helps guarantee that the vessel maintains its stability and is ready for any operational needs.