Which action should be taken when counter flooding a ship?

When counter flooding a ship, the action of pumping seawater into the high side is the most effective strategy. This method helps to balance the ship's stability and counteract the effects of flooding. By adding weight on the high side, you effectively lower the center of gravity and create a more stable condition. This is crucial as it can prevent the ship from listing further, allowing it to maintain a safer level of buoyancy while the crew responds to the flooding.

This strategy relies on the principle of buoyancy and stability, which are critical in maritime operations. The introduction of seawater serves to offset the shift in weight caused by flooding on one side of the vessel.

Other actions, such as pumping water out of the lower side, might seem beneficial initially, but they do not address the underlying issue of weight distribution and could potentially exacerbate the problem. Similarly, discharging oil to balance weight is not a viable solution, as it can lead to environmental hazards and regulatory issues. Sealing all openings can be essential to prevent further flooding, but it should be part of a comprehensive management strategy rather than a standalone action when dealing with existing flooding conditions.