What does the term 'Danger shot' refer to in maritime contexts?

The term 'Danger shot' refers specifically to the last shot of the anchor chain. In maritime contexts, when a vessel is anchoring, the anchor chain is made up of several links or "shots." The danger shot is the final section of the chain that can be seen above the waterline and is a crucial point of reference. If the danger shot reaches the water's surface or becomes visible, it often indicates that the vessel is running out of chain to safely anchor in deeper water or that the anchor is not holding properly. This term helps crew members manage the anchoring process effectively and is critical for ensuring the safety of the ship when at anchor.