boating safety study guide

A recreational vessel is approaching a US Naval vessel. At what distance from the US Naval vessel must the recreational vessel slow to minimum speed?

500 yards

If a person operates a boat in Alabama while intoxicated, then he or she has to submit to?

A test of their blood alcohol concentration

What sound producing device is required when boating on Alabama water in an 18-foot powerboat?

A whistle, a horn or another sound device

According to Alabama law, what equipment is required when a vessel (other than a PWC) is towing a skier and does not have a capable observer on board in addition to the operator?

A wide angle rearview mirror

What should a vessel operator do to make sure everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency?

Conduct an emergency drill with passengers

When two vessels are operating in the same general area, who is responsible for avoiding a collision?

The operators of both vessels.

Everyone on board a vessel should understand basic safety practices. Who is responsible for ensuring this?

The vessel operator

What should a motorboat operator do when someone is being pulled into the boat from the water?

Turn off the engine

What should you do before fueling your boat?

Turn off the engine and close all windows, ports, doors, and other openings.

How can propeller strike accidents be avoided?

Turn off the engine when passengers are boardline

Where should your trailer be located while you prepare to launch your vessel?

Well away from the boat ramp.

What condition is a person at the greatest risk of developing hypothermia?

When immersed in cold water

When should a life jacker be discarded and replaced?

When it is slightly torn

When is a sailboat under sail the give way vessel when encountering a power driven vessel?

When the sailboat is overtaking the power driven vessel

How do you know when you are operating your vessel at a safe speed?

When you have enough time to avoid a collision.

What should the vessel operator tell everyone on board before departing?

Where to find the PFD's and visual distress signals

In Alabama, how far must a vessel stay from a diver down flag?

100 feet

According to Alabama law, during what hours is it legal to tow a person behind a boat on water skis or other device?

Between one before sunrise and one hour after sunset

In Alabama, what are the recommended hours for personal watercraft operation?

Between sunset and sunrise (daylight hours)

How should a vessel's registration number and validation decal be displayed?

Both sides of the bow of the boat

What should the operators of a PWC and a motorboat do when approaching head on?

Both vessels should turn to starboard or the right

What are three illegal operations of a PWC in Alabama?

Buzzing another vessel or person in the water, weaving through congested traffic at a high speed, and swerving at the last possible moment to avoid collision

What is one part of a regular vessel and engine maintenance program?

Checking the oil level before every outing.

What is the best way to find out about hazards on a local waterway?

Consult a nautical chart

What weather conditions provide a warning that dangerous weather is approaching?

Dark clouds and shifting winds

What is indicated by a WHITE marker with an ORANGE crossed diamond and black lettering?

Exclusion or keep out area, such as a dam

When must navigation lights be displayed?

From sunset to sunrise and when visibility is restricted

What is the best way to minimize the risk of drowning while boating?

Have everyone wear an appropriate life jacket at all times

What effect does alcohol have when you are operating a vessel?

Increases the likelihood of accidents

How should you approach the dock when docking your vessel?

Into the wind or current, whichever is stronger.

Why is carbon monoxide gas dangerous?

It is colors, odorless, and tasteless and can be fatal

What could happen if you anchor a boat from the stern?

It may cause the boat to swamp.

What should paddlers do to protect against capsizing their canoe or kayak?

Keep a low center of gravity and three points of contact

What should you do reduce the risk of falling overboard?

Keep centered in the boat

What is the maximum speed you can go in slow, no wake zone?

Less than 5 mph

What action may cause the loss of steering ability n a PWC?

Letting off the throttle control

What must an owner do before allowing others to operate his or her vessel?

Make sure they know how to operate it safely

What important safety information is found on a boat's capacity plate?

Maximum weight and/or number of people the boat can carry safety.

You have to report a boating accident to the Alabama Marine Police Division if the damage to your vessel?

More than $2,000

Where is the best place to store a fire extinguisher on a boat?

Mounted in an accessible location

How does the effect of alcohol consumed while boating compare to the effect on land?

Much greater effect while boating

What is an example of careless operation?

Not having enough personal flotation devices on board

According to Alabama law, what operators are required to have completed an approved boating course in order to operate a personal watercraft (PWC)?

Operators who are 12 years of age or older

What is most important when selecting the right PFD for a passenger?

Passenger's body weight and chest size

Visibility is restricted due to fog. What should the vessel operator do to avoid the risk of a collision?

Reduce speed to the minimum needed to stay on course

How can you prevent transporting nuisance species (plants or animals) with your vessel from one waterway to another?

Remove any zebra mussels you see before leaving the body of water

What should you do immediately if a boat motor catches on fire?

Shut off the feel supply, and try to put out the fire with an extinguisher

If your inboard/outboard boat runs aground, what action should take in addition to shifting the weight away from the point of impact?

Stop the engine and lift the outdrive

According to Alabama law, what age person who has boater safety certification may operate a personal watercraft without supervision?

Those at least 14 years of age

According to Alabama law, children of what age are required to wear a properly secured PFD while on a vessel unless the child is in a enclosed cabin?

Those under 8 years of age

Why should a vessel operator keep a proper lookout?

To avoid collisions.

What is the main purpose of the lateral system of RED and GREEN buoys and markers?

To mark the edges of safe water areas

What is the first action required of a boat operator who witness a boating accident?

To produce assistance

What is the main function of an ignition safety switch?

To shut off the engine if the operator is thrown overboard

What should you do if you fall overboard into cold water?

Try to rebound your boat, even if its swamped

What type of PFD will turn most unconscious persons face up in the water?

Type I

When boating on federally controlled waters in an 18-foot boat, what equipment are you legally required to have on board?

US Coast Guard approved visual distress signals

What determines if a speed is safe for your boat?

Visibility conditions

What should a vessel operator do to keep a proper lookout?

Watch for navigational hazards.

What should. anglers and hunters do when they are fishing or hunting from a boat?

Wear a life jacket at all times