Unit 5

Issuing a MAYDAY Call

Boater's Tip To issue a MAYDAY call on Channel 16 of your VHF radio: Transmit "MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY." Say "This is (name of boat three times, call letters once)." Repeat once more "MAYDAY" and your vessel's name. Report your location. Report the nature of your emergency. Report the kind of assistance needed. Report the number of people on board and condition of any injured. Describe the vessel and its seaworthiness. Wait for a response. If there is none, repeat the message.

What Is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless, tasteless gas that is produced when a carbon-based fuel burns. CO can make you sick in seconds. In high enough concentrations, even a few breaths can be fatal. Sources of CO on your boat may include gasoline engines, gas generators, cooking ranges, and heaters. Early symptoms of CO poisoning include irritated eyes, headache, nausea, weakness, and dizziness. They often are confused with seasickness or intoxication. Move anyone with these symptoms to fresh air immediately. Seek medical attention—unless you're sure it's not CO.

Treating a Victim of Cold Water Immersion

Get the victim out of the water as soon as possible. Remove the victim from the water gently and in a horizontal position. Prevent further heat loss. Treat the hypothermia victim gently and to your level of training. Be prepared to provide basic life support. Seek medical help immediately. Learn to recognize symptoms of hypothermia. They are listed here in order of severity. Shivering, slurred speech, blurred vision Bluish lips and fingernails Loss of feeling in extremities Cold, bluish skin Confusion Dizziness Rigidity in extremities Unconsciousness Coma Death

The HELP and Huddle Positions

HELP - Heat Escape Lessening Posture: When you are alone, this position protects the body's three major areas of heat loss (groin, head/neck, and rib cage/armpits). Wearing a PFD allows you to draw your knees to your chest and your arms to your sides.

Surviving Cold Water Immersion

Of course, the best prevention is to take all measures necessary to avoid capsizing your boat or falling into cold water in the first place. If you do fall into or must enter cold water: •Don't panic. Try to get control of your breathing. Hold onto something or stay as still as possible until your breathing settles down. Focus on floating with your head above water until the cold shock response abates. •When your breathing is under control, perform the most important functions first before you lose dexterity (10-15 minutes after immersion). •If you were not wearing a PFD when you entered the water, look to see if one is floating around you and put it on immediately. Don't take your clothes off unless absolutely necessary. A layer of water trapped inside your clothing will help insulate you. •Focus on locating and getting everyone out of the water quickly before you lose full use of your hands, arms, and legs. Try to reboard your boat, even if it is swamped or capsized, or anything else that is floating. Get as much of your body out of the water as possible. Even though you may feel colder out of the water, the rate of heat loss will be slower than if immersed in water.

Maintain PFDs in Good Condition

PFDs must be in good and serviceable condition. •Regularly test a PFD's buoyancy in shallow water or a swimming pool. Over time, the ultraviolet radiation from the sun will break down the synthetic materials of your PFD. Frequently inspect PFDs for rips or tears, discolored or weakened material, insecure straps or zippers, or labels that are no longer readable. Discard and replace any PFD that has a problem. •If using an inflatable PFD, before each outing check the status of the inflator and that the CO2 cylinder has not been used, has no leaks, and is screwed in tightly. Also check that the PFD itself has no leaks by removing the CO2 cylinder and orally inflating the PFD. The PFD should still be firm after several hours. After an inflatable PFD has been inflated using a cylinder, replace the spent cylinder and re-arm it. Because an inflatable PFD is a mechanical device, it requires regular maintenance. Maintain the inflatable portion of the PFD as instructed in the owner's manual.

Have PFDs of the Proper Size

PFDs must be of the proper size for the intended wearer. Always read the label of the PFD to make sure it is the right size based on the person's weight and chest size. It's especially important to check that a child's PFD fits snugly. Test the fit by picking the child up by the shoulders of the PFD and checking that his or her chin and ears do not slip through the PFD.

Cold Water Immersion Kills

Proper response to accidents results from good training and common sense. If an injury is minor, treat it immediately. If an injury is major, make the victim as comfortable and safe as possible until medical personnel arrive, assuming you have a way to call for help. Cold water immersion kills in several ways. The colder the water, the greater the chance of death. However, the initial reaction to cold water immersion can occur in water as warm as 77° Fahrenheit. By understanding how your body reacts to cold water, you can prepare for and be better able to respond appropriately, thus increasing your chance of survival. Boater's Tip Don't ever think that boating activities won't expose you to the risk of hypothermia. Wear rain gear when it rains. A windbreaker over a fleece jacket is very effective to protect against the wind. Hypothermia can occur on what begins as a warm, sunny day. In remote areas, carry matches and go ashore if you need to build a fire. Also carry an extra jacket, hat, and blankets. Remember that, as a responsible operator, you should tell your passengers what to bring along for the outing.

What To Do If a Passenger Falls Overboard

Reduce speed and toss the victim a PFD—preferably a throwable device—unless you know he or she is already wearing a PFD. Turn your boat around and slowly pull alongside the victim, approaching the victim from downwind or into the current, whichever is stronger. Stop the engine. Pull the victim on board over the stern, keeping the weight in the boat balanced, especially in small boats.

Prepare for and Prevent Accidents

Remember... Most accidents are preventable. Even accidents attributed to the environment most likely could have been prevented if the operator had not overlooked the warning signals, had not made poor decisions, or had the proper boating skills. Many accidents attributed to equipment also could have been prevented if proper maintenance and defect detection had taken place.

Preventing Capsizing, Swamping, or Falling Overboard

Sitting on the gunwale, bow, seat backs, or any other area not designed for seating is risky behavior and can result in falling overboard. It is illegal in many states. To help prevent and prepare for capsizing, swamping, or someone falling overboard, follow these guidelines. Make sure that you and your passengers are wearing PFDs while the boat is underway. Attach the engine cut-off switch lanyard to your wrist, clothes, or PFD. Don't allow anyone to sit on the gunwale, bow, seat backs, motor cover, or any other area not designed for seating. Also, don't let anyone sit on pedestal seats when operating at a speed greater than idle speed. Don't overload your boat. Balance the load of all passengers and gear. Keep your center of gravity low by not allowing people to stand up or move around while underway, especially in smaller, less-stable boats. In a small boat, don't allow anyone to lean a shoulder beyond the gunwale. Slow your boat appropriately when turning. Don't risk boating in rough water conditions or in bad weather. When anchoring, secure the anchor line to the bow, never to the stern.

CO Poisoning Situations—Slow Speed or Station Wagon Effect

Slow Speed or Idling causes carbon monoxide to accumulate in the cabin, cockpit, and rear deck. Carbon monoxide poisoning - station wagon effect Station Wagon Effect causes carbon monoxide to accumulate inside the cabin and cockpit if you are operating the vessel at a high bow angle, if there is an opening that draws in exhaust, or if protective coverings are used when the vessel is underway.

If Caught in Severe Weather—Prepare Your Boat and Passengers

Slow down, but keep enough power to maintain headway and steering. Close all hatches, windows, and doors to reduce the chance of swamping. Stow any unnecessary gear. Turn on your boat's navigation lights. If there is fog, sound your fog horn as instructed in Unit 2. Keep bilges free of water. Be prepared to remove water by bailing. If there is lightning, disconnect all electrical equipment. Stay as clear of metal objects as possible. Prepare your passengers for severe weather. Have everyone put on a USCG-approved PFD. If a PFD is already on, make sure it is secured properly. Have your passengers sit on the vessel floor close to the centerline. This is for their safety and to make the boat more stable. Boater's Tip To determine the distance you are from an approaching thunderstorm: Count the number of seconds between the flash of lightning and the clap of thunder. Divide the number of seconds by five. The result is roughly the distance in miles you are from the storm.

Weather Warning Display Signals

Small Craft Advisory Winds in the range of 21 to 33 knots (24 to 38 mph) create conditions considered dangerous to small vessels. Gale Warning Winds are in the range of 34 to 47 knots (39 to 54 mph). Storm Warning Winds are 48 knots (55 mph) and above. If winds are associated with a tropical cyclone, this warning signals winds of 48 to 63 knots. Hurricane Warning Winds are 64 knots (74 mph) and above. This warning is displayed only in connection with a hurricane.

Preventing Falls Overboard from Small Boats

Small craft boaters need to be especially careful to avoid falling overboard. Falling overboard and drowning is the major cause of fatalities for small boats. To prevent falling overboard: •Keep centered in the boat with your center of gravity low in the boat. Always keep your shoulders between the gunwales. •If possible, don't move about the boat. If you must move, maintain three points of contact. That is, keep both hands and one foot or both feet and one hand in contact with the boat at all times. •Evenly distribute and balance the weight of persons and gear within the boat, keeping most of the weight low. It is extremely important not to overload a small boat.

Consider Inflatable PFDs

Some people say they don't wear their PFDs because they're too hot or too bulky. But that's not an excuse anymore. Inflatable PFDs offer a U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD that is small and lightweight. Inflatable PFDs come in two styles: a PFD that looks like a pair of suspenders or a belt pack that looks like a small fanny pack. Some of these PFDs are designed to inflate if the wearer falls into the water; others require the wearer to pull a cord. Inflatable PFDs are approved only for people 16 and older, and they are not to be worn on PWC or while water-skiing. Read the operating instructions and the approval label before you choose an inflatable PFD. Then be sure to wear it!

Typical Boating Fatalities

Someone not wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) falls overboard and drowns or... A vessel capsizes and someone drowns or... A vessel strikes another vessel or fixed object, and the occupants are fatally injured or drown due to injuries. Collisions often occur because boat operators are not staying alert and keeping a lookout for other boats or objects, or are going a little faster than they should. Although some collisions happen at night when it is difficult to see, many occur in daylight hours on calm, clear days. About one-third of the time, alcohol is involved. You also might be surprised to learn that: Typically, victims drown even though there are enough PFDs on the boat. (Remember, you probably won't have time to put on your PFD during an emergency. Get in the habit of wearing it.) The vessel is most often a small boat of open design, such as a jon boat, canoe, or other type of boat with low sides. The victims are usually men 26 to 50 years old, who have been boating for years and likely know how to swim.

Preparing for Possible Cold Water Immersion

Your chance of surviving cold water immersion depends on having sufficient flotation to keep your head above water, controlling your breathing, having timely rescue by yourself or others, and retaining body heat. Prepare for boating in cold water conditions by always wearing a secured PFD. Also wear layered clothing for insulation. Equip your boat with a means for re-entry (ladder, sling, etc.) to use if you should fall into the water.

Preventing a Collision

A collision occurs when your boat or PWC collides with another vessel or with a fixed or floating object such as a rock, log, bridge, or dock. Collisions can cause very serious damage, injury, or even death. It is every vessel operator's responsibility to avoid a collision. To prevent a collision, boat and PWC operators should: Follow the rules of navigation. Pay attention to navigational aids. Keep a sharp watch and appoint one person to be the "lookout." Maintain a safe speed, especially in congested traffic and at night. Look in all directions before making any turn. Use caution if you are traveling directly into the sun's glare on the water. Never operate when fatigued, stressed, or consuming alcohol. Be aware that floating debris is more common after heavy rainfall.

A First Aid Kit

A responsible vessel operator takes a certified course in first aid and CPR. Doing so enables you to respond quickly in emergency situations and to provide immediate care until the victim can be treated by a physician. When out boating, it can take a long time to get medical help. A responsible vessel operator also keeps a first-aid kit on board. It should be waterproof and include: An extra towel Antiseptic medications and lotions Aspirin or aspirin substitute Assorted gauze adhesive bandages and pads Cotton and cotton swabs Latex gloves Scissors

Increased Risk Due to Dehydration

A typical boating day in the summer causes your body to generate a large amount of heat. Sitting exposed in the sun increases your body heat. As you ride in a boat, your body automatically adjusts to the changing position of the boat. The exertion of this constant adjustment increases body heat. The way the body rids itself of increased heat is by sweating. Increased sweating will cause dehydration if fluids are not replaced. Dehydration will make you more fatigued and more at risk for a boating accident. The best way to minimize the risk of dehydration is to drink plenty of water—before, during, and after any water activities. A good rule of thumb while you are boating in warm weather is to drink some water every 15-20 minutes. Besides thirst, other signs of dehydration are a dry mouth, sleepiness, irritability, weakness, dizziness, and a headache. The first thing you should do if you experience any of these symptoms is to drink plenty of water. If possible, get out of the sun and rest. Serious dehydration may require medical attention.

Preventing Running Aground

A vessel is grounded (runs aground) when it gets stuck on the bottom. Never assume that water is deep enough just because you are away from the shore. Also, don't presume that all shallow hazards will be marked by a danger buoy. If you run aground while traveling at a high speed, the impact not only can cause damage to your boat but also can cause injury to you and your passengers. Knowing your environment is the best way to prevent running aground. •Become familiar with the locations of shallow water and submerged objects before you go out. Be aware that the location of shallow hazards will change as the water level rises and falls. •Learn to read a chart to determine your position and the water depth.

Understand Alcohol Impairment

Alcohol impairment increases the likelihood of accidents—for both passengers and vessel operators. Always designate non-drinking boaters to operate the vessel and to act as an observer if your group plans to consume alcohol. Do not allow your skipper to operate if he or she is drinking. Alcohol is a major contributor to boating accidents and fatalities. Don't Drink and Boat! Drinking while boating is a choice. The best way to minimize the risk of an accident is to make the wise choice—Don't drink and boat!

Minimize Risk by Wearing PFDs (Life Jackets)

Approximately 70% of all boating fatalities are drownings, and most of those fatalities could have been avoided. Ninety percent of drowning victims are not wearing a PFD—drownings are rare when boaters are wearing an appropriate PFD. One of the most important things you can do to make boating safe and enjoyable is not only to carry enough PFDs for everyone on board but also to have everyone wear them!

Practice Risk Management

Because most accidents are the result of a simple mistake, nearly all accidents are easily preventable. •The best way to avoid having a serious accident is to take a few simple steps toward accident prevention. The water can be an unfriendly environment if you don't recognize risks and are not properly prepared for them. •Risk management is the process of recognizing and acting upon accident warning signs or minimizing the effects of an accident if it does occur. •By taking this safety course, you are practicing risk management. You've already reduced the chance that you will be involved in a dangerous boating emergency by learning safe boating practices. ◦You now know the "rules of the road" and how important it is to pay close attention to other boats and potential hazards and to maintain a safe speed. By practicing these rules, you greatly reduce the chance that you'll be involved in an accident. ◦Developing a habit of wearing your life jacket also reduces the chance that you will drown should you find yourself in the water unexpectedly. •Below is additional information to help you understand and minimize the risks associated with boating and make your time on the water safe and enjoyable.

CO Poisoning Situations—Blocked Exhaust or Another Boat's Exhaust

Blocked Exhaust Outlets can cause carbon monoxide to accumulate in the cabin and cockpit area. Another Vessel's Exhaust that is alongside can emit carbon monoxide into the cabin and cockpit of your vessel. Your vessel should be at least 20 feet from a vessel that is running a generator or engine.

How To Respond to Injuries

Here are some proper responses to accidents that can occur while boating. •Shock: The seriously injured should be treated for shock by keeping the victim warm, still, and in a lying-down position until medical attention arrives. Elevate the feet several inches except in cases of head injury or hypothermia. •Bleeding: Bleeding usually can be controlled by applying direct pressure to the wound. If the bleeding is minor, apply first aid. If it is serious, apply a dressing, maintain direct pressure, and seek medical attention. •Burns: In cases of burns, the immediate goals are to relieve pain, prevent infection, and treat for shock. Immediately place minor burns in cold water and apply a dry bandage after the pain subsides. Seek medical attention for more severe burns. •Broken Bones: Seek medical assistance immediately for broken and dislocated bones. Apply temporary splints with care. An improper splint can result in lifelong disfigurement; lack of a splint can lead to hemorrhage, shock, or death. •Head, Neck, or Spinal Injury: In cases of head, neck, or spinal injuries, never move a victim more than is absolutely necessary. The water can provide excellent support until medical personnel arrive. If a victim must be moved, place him or her gently on a firm, full-length support.

VHF Marine Radio Channels

Here are the most commonly used channels on United States waters. •Channel 6: Intership safety communications. •Channel 9: Communications between vessels (commercial and recreational), and ship to coast (calling channel in designated USCG Districts). •Channel 13: Strictly for navigational purposes by commercial, military, and recreational vessels at bridges, locks, and harbors. •Channel 16: Distress and safety calls to Coast Guard and others, and to initiate calls to other vessels; often called the "hailing" channel. (Some regions use other channels as the hailing channel. For example, the Northeast uses Channel 9.) When hailing, contact the other vessel, quickly agree to another channel, and then switch to that channel to continue conversation. •Channel 22: Communications between the Coast Guard and the maritime public, both recreational and commercial. Severe weather warnings, hazards to navigation, and other safety warnings are broadcast on this channel. •Channels 24-28: Public telephone calls (to marine operator). •Channels 68, 69, and 71: Recreational vessel radio channels and ship to coast. •Channel 70: Digital selective calling "alert channel."

If Caught in Severe Weather—Go to Shore or Ride it Out?

If possible, head for the nearest shore that is safe to approach. If already caught in a storm, it may be best to ride it out in open water rather than try to approach the shore in heavy wind and waves. Head the bow into the waves at a 45-degree angle. PWC should head directly into the waves. Keep a sharp lookout for other vessels, debris, shoals, or stumps. If the engine stops, drop a "sea anchor" on a line off the bow to keep the bow headed into the wind and reduce drifting while you ride out the storm. In an emergency, a bucket will work as a sea anchor. Without power, a powerboat usually will turn its stern to the waves and could be swamped more easily. If the sea anchor is not sufficient, anchor using your conventional anchor to prevent your boat from drifting into dangerous areas.

What To Do If a Fire Erupts on Your Boat

If underway, stop the boat. Have everyone who is not wearing a PFD put one on in case you must abandon the boat. Position the boat so that the fire is downwind. If the fire is at the back of the boat, head into the wind. If the engine must be shut off, use a paddle to keep the bow into the wind. If the fire is at the front of the boat, put the stern into the wind. If the fire is in an engine space, shut off the fuel supply. Aim the fire extinguisher at the base of the flames, and sweep back and forth (remember PASS). Never use water on a gasoline, oil, grease, or electrical fire. Summon help with your VHF marine radio.

Reach, Throw, Row, or Go

If you are on a dock when someone falls in, you should try to "talk" the victim to safety. If he or she is unable to get to the dock, you should: Reach Extend a fishing rod, branch, oar, towel, or other object to REACH out to the victim and pull him or her to safety. If nothing is available, lie flat on the dock and grab the victim's hand or wrist, and pull him or her to safety. Throw If the victim is too far away to reach and a boat isn't handy, THROW the victim a PFD or anything else that will float. Row If a rowboat is available, ROW to the victim and then use an oar or paddle to pull the victim to the stern. Let the victim hold onto the stern as you paddle to shore. If the victim is too weak, hold onto him or her until help arrives. If using a powerboat, stop the engine and glide to the victim from the downwind side. Go Swimmers without lifesaving training should not swim to a victim. Instead, GO for help. If you must swim, take along anything that floats to keep between you and the victim.

Protecting Against Rapid Heat Loss

If you cannot get out of the water quickly, act to protect against rapid heat loss. In as little as 10 minutes, you may be unable to self-rescue. Your focus now should be to slow heat loss. Stay as motionless as possible, protecting the high heat loss areas of your body, and keep your head and neck out of the water. Safety typically looks closer than it actually is, so staying with the boat is usually a better choice than swimming. Adopt a position to reduce heat loss. If alone, use the Heat Escape Lessening Posture (HELP) position; or if there are others in the water with you, huddle together. If you must swim, conserve energy and minimize movement. Swim on your back with your upper arms against the sides of your chest, your thighs together, and your knees bent. Flutter-kick with your lower legs. Be prepared at all times to signal rescuers.

What To Do If Your Boat Runs Aground

If you run aground, make sure no one is injured and then check for leaks. If the impact did not cause a leak, follow these steps to try to get loose. •Don't put the boat in reverse. Instead, stop the engine and lift the outdrive. •Shift the weight to the area farthest away from the point of impact. •Try to shove off from the rock, bottom, or reef with a paddle or boathook. •Check to make sure your boat is not taking on water. If you can't get loose, summon help using your visual distress signals. Call for assistance using your VHF marine radio.

What To Do If You Capsize, Swamp, or Fall Overboard

If you should capsize or swamp your boat, or if you have fallen overboard and can't get back in, stay with the boat if possible. Your swamped boat is easier to see and will signal that you are in trouble. Also signal for help using other devices available (visual distress signals, whistle, mirror). If you made the mistake of not wearing a PFD, find one and put it on. If you can't put it on, hold onto it. Have your passengers do the same. Take a head count. Reach, throw, row, or go, if needed. If your boat remains afloat, try to reboard or climb onto it in order to get as much of your body out of the cold water as possible. Treading water will cause you to lose body heat faster, so try to use the boat for support.

What To Do If Your Boat Sinks or Floats Away

If your boat sinks or floats away, don't panic. If you are wearing a PFD, make sure that it is securely fastened, remain calm, and wait for help. If you aren't wearing a PFD, look for one floating in the water or other floating items (coolers, oars or paddles, decoys, etc.) to help you stay afloat. Do your best to help your passengers find something to help them float and stay together. If you have nothing to support you, you may have to tread water or simply float. In cold water, float rather than tread to reduce hypothermia. Remember... Swimming to shore should be considered only as a last resort.

What You Need on Board To Summon Help

In times of serious boating emergencies, the ability to summon help quickly can make the difference between life and death. Here are some items that you should carry on board to help get assistance quickly. Visual distress signals Visual Distress Signals: It is recommended that you have and know how to use visual distress signals. Carry extras. Always respond immediately to other boaters displaying a distress signal. VHF radio VHF Marine Radio: Consider purchasing a Very High Frequency (VHF) marine radio. VHF marine radios have channels that are reserved for distress calls and are monitored continuously by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). Mobile phone Mobile Phone: If you own a mobile telephone, include it as part of your standard boating gear. It may be useful for contacting local law enforcement agencies. However, they have serious limitations and should not be used as a substitute for a VHF radio. Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB): If you operate far from shore, you should seriously consider carrying appropriate communications gear. A satellite EPIRB is designed to quickly and reliably alert rescue forces, indicate an accurate distress position, and guide rescue units to the distress scene, even when all other communications fail.

Preventing CO Poisoning Before You Go Boating

Make sure you know where the exhaust outlets are located on your boat. Educate all passengers about the symptoms of CO poisoning and where CO may accumulate. Confirm that water flows from the exhaust outlet when the engines and generator are started. Listen for any change in exhaust sound, which could indicate an exhaust component failure. Test the operation of each CO detector by pressing the test button. At least monthly, you should: Make sure all exhaust clamps are in place and secure. Look for leaks from exhaust system components. Signs include rust and/or black streaking, water leaks, or corroded or cracked fittings. Inspect rubber exhaust hoses for burns, cracks, or deterioration. At least annually, have a qualified marine technician check the engine and exhaust system.

When Boaters End Up in the Water Unexpectedly

Most boating fatalities don't have anything to do with bad weather or hazardous sea conditions. They typically occur in smaller, open boats on inland waters during daylight hours when weather and visibility are good, the winds are light, and the water is calm. Despite these ideal conditions, passengers fall overboard and many boats capsize, causing over half of all boating fatalities. Capsizing, Swamping, or Falling Overboard Capsizing is when a boat turns on its side or turns completely over. Swamping occurs when a boat stays upright and fills with water. Sometimes a person falling overboard from a boat causes the boat to capsize or swamp. Regardless, the outcome is the same—people are in the water unexpectedly.

The Four Stages of Cold Water Immersion—Stages 1 and 2

Stage 1: Initial "cold shock" occurs in the first 3-5 minutes of immersion in cold water. Sudden immersion into cold water can cause immediate, involuntary gasping; hyperventilation; panic; and vertigo—all of which can result in water inhalation and drowning. Immersion in cold water also can cause sudden changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and heart rhythm, which also can result in death. (First signs: shivering) Stage 2: Short-term "swim failure" occurs 3-30 minutes following immersion in cold water. The muscles and nerves in the arms and legs cool quickly. Manual dexterity, hand grip strength, and speed of movement all can drop by 60%-80%. Even normally strong persons can lose the strength necessary to pull themselves out of the water or even to keep their head above water. Death occurs by drowning.

The Four Stages of Cold Water Immersion—Stages 3 and 4

Stage 3: Long-term immersion hypothermia sets in after 30 minutes, at a rate depending on water temperature, clothing, body type, and your behavior in the water. Cold water robs the body of heat 25 times faster than cold air. Hypothermia occurs when your body loses heat faster than it produces it, cooling the organs in the core of your body. Hypothermia eventually leads to loss of consciousness and death, with or without drowning. Stage 4: Post-immersion collapse occurs during or after rescue. Once rescued, after you have been immersed in cold water, you are still in danger from collapse of arterial blood pressure leading to cardiac arrest. Also, inhaled water can damage your lungs, and heart problems can develop as cold blood from your arms and legs is released into the core of your body.

Preventing CO Poisoning While Boating

Swimmers should never enter an enclosed area under the swim platform—even for a second. One or two breaths of the air in this area could be fatal. To protect yourself and others against CO poisoning while boating: •Allow fresh air to circulate throughout the boat at all times, even during bad weather. •Know where your engine and generator exhaust outlets are located and keep everyone away from these areas. •Never sit on the back deck, "teak surf," or hang on the swim platform while the engines are running. •Never enter areas under swim platforms where exhaust outlets are located—even for a second. One or two breaths in this area could be fatal. •Ventilate immediately if exhaust fumes are detected on the boat. •Install and maintain CO detectors inside your boat. Replace detectors as recommended by the manufacturer.

CO Poisoning Situations—Teak Surfing

Teak Surfing or dragging or water-skiing within 20 feet of a moving vessel can be fatal. If persons are using a swim platform or are close to the stern, all gasoline-powered generators with transom exhaust ports must be off.

Minimize Risk by Avoiding Alcohol

The effect of alcohol is increased by the natural stressors placed on your body while boating. Also, alcohol causes dehydration of your body. It takes less alcohol, combined with stressors, to impair an operator's ability to operate safely. Research has proven that one-third of the amount of alcohol that it takes to make a person legally intoxicated on land can make a boater equally intoxicated on the water. Alcohol depresses the central nervous system, affects judgment, and slows physical reaction time. Most people become impaired after only one drink. Alcohol makes it difficult for you to pay attention and perform multiple tasks. For example, it will be more difficult for you to keep track of two or more vessels operating in your area. This could become critical if you are placed in an emergency situation and must make a sudden decision. Alcohol can reduce your ability to distinguish colors, especially red and green.

Increased Risk Due to Boating Stressors

The glare and heat of the sun, along with the motion of the vessel caused by the wind and the waves and the noise and vibration of the engine, have a large impact on your body that you may not even realize. These natural stressors make you tire more rapidly when on the water—regardless of your age or level of fitness. Many boaters greatly underestimate the effect these stressors have on fatigue. While perhaps not fatal themselves, stressors may weaken your body and mind enough to make the risk of an accident much greater.

Preventing a Fire

To help prevent a fire: Don't mix the three ingredients required to ignite a fire—fuel, oxygen, and heat. Make sure ventilation systems have been installed and are used properly. Maintain the fuel system to avoid leaks, and keep the bilges clean. Follow the safe fueling procedures outlined in Unit 1.

How To Use a Fire Extinguisher

To remember how to properly use a fire extinguisher—remember PASS P: Pull pin. A: Aim at base of fire. S: Squeeze handle. S: Sweep side to side.

bailing

To remove water by scooping it out with a bucket

How To Avoid Severe Weather

Tune a portable radio to a local station that gives weather updates. Listed here are the VHF-FM radio stations that broadcast National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather reports, which are updated each hour. Be alert to weather conditions. Accumulating dark clouds, shifting winds, and graying skies all may be indications of danger. Listen for distant thunder. Track changes in barometer readings. A rising barometer indicates fair weather. A falling barometer indicates foul weather is approaching. Watch for wind direction shifts, which usually indicate a weather change. Watch for lightning and rough water. If not electrically grounded, boats (particularly sailboats) are vulnerable to lightning. Be observant of weather from all directions; however, closely watch the weather to the west, the direction from which most bad weather arrives. Watch for fog that creates problems in inlets and bays. Typically, fog will form during the temperature changes of the early morning or evening hours and can persist for lengthy periods. Head toward the nearest safe shore if a thunderstorm is approaching.

gunwale

Upper edge of vessel's side (generally pronounced "gunnel")

Using a VHF Marine Radio

VHF marine radios are increasingly popular with boaters for good reasons. They save lives and are easy to use. They are more effective for marine communications than CB radios or mobile phones. VHF radios have more consistent reception than mobile phones. No license is needed when used in recreational boats. They withstand rough weather. Boat-mounted radios are wired to the boat's battery. The source of a VHF signal can be located so that you can be found even in fog. Operating a VHF radio takes some basic knowledge. When operating your boat, you must monitor Channel 16 (the distress channel). If you hear a MAYDAY call, remain silent, listen, and write down information about the boat in distress. If the USCG or other rescue authority does not respond, try to reach the USCG while traveling toward the boat. If you cannot reach the USCG, assist the other boat to the best of your ability while not placing yourself or your passengers in danger. If you have a life-threatening emergency, have everyone put on PFDs and issue a MAYDAY call on Channel 16. Be aware that the distance for sending and receiving messages is limited by the height of the antenna and the power of the radio. Always use the one-watt setting except in an emergency or if your signal is too weak to be received clearly. Channel 16 is a calling and distress channel only and should not be used for conversation or radio checks. It can be used to make contact with another station (boat), but the communication then should move to a non-emergency channel such as 68 or 69. Penalties exist for misuse of a radio, including improper use of VHF Channel 16.

Changes in the Weather

Weather can change very rapidly and create unexpected emergencies for boat and PWC operators. Even meteorologists have trouble predicting rapid changes in the weather. You should always watch for changes in the weather and monitor the weather forecast. As an operator, it is your responsibility to take appropriate action based on the weather.