Boating Exam (Drivers Ed)
How do you know when you are operating your vessel at a safe speed?
You have enough time to avoid collisions
At what distance should a vessel slow to minimum speed when approaching a US Naval vessel?
500 yards
What sound-producing device is required when boating on Alabama waters in an 18 foot powerboat?
A whistle, horn, or another audible sound device
What is required when a vessel is towing a skier with no other observer is on board?
A wide angle rear view mirror
What age person who has boater certification may operate a PWC without supervision?
At least 14 years old
During what hours is it legal to tow a person behind a boat on water skis or other device?
Between 1 hour before sunrise and 1 hour after sunset
In Alabama, what are the recommended hours for personal watercraft operations?
Between sunrise and sunset (daylight hours)
What should the operators of a PWC and a motorboat do when approaching head-on?
Both vessels should turn to starboard (right)
What is one part of a regular vessel and engine maintenance program?
Checking the oil level before every outing
What should a vessel operator do to make sure everyone knows what to do in an emergency?
Conduct an emergency drill with the passengers
What is the best way to find out about hazards on a local waterway?
Consult a nautical chart
Which of the following is legal operation of a PWC in Alabama?
Crossing at right angles to another vessel
Which condition requires you to report a boating accident?
Damage to your boat is more than $2000 from the accident
Which of these provides 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
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
Which is true about operating a boat in Alabama while intoxicated?
In Alabama, a boater must submit to testing for B.A.C.
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 colorless, odorless, tasteless, and 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 contract
What should you do to reduce the risk of falling overboard?
Keep centered in the boat
Which action may cause the loss of steering ability in a PWC?
Letting off the throttle control
What must an owner do before allowing others to operate the vessel?
Make sure they know how to operate it safely
What important safety information is found on a boat's capacity plate?
Max weight and/or number of people the boat can carry safely
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
Which of the following is an example of careless operation?
Not having enough personal flotation devices on board
How should a vessel's registration number and validation decal be displayed?
On both sides of the bow of the boat
According to Alabama law, which of these are considered legal operation?
Operating at less than 5mph in a slow, no wake speed area
What operators are required to have completed the boating course in order to operate a PWC?
Operators 12 years or older
What is most important when selecting the right PFD for a passenger?
Passenger's body weight and chest size
What should the vessel operator do to avoid the risk of collision when driving in fog?
Reduce speed to the minimum needed to stay on course
You can prevent transporting nuisance species with your vessel from one waterway to another by:
Remove any zebra mussels you see before leaving the water
What should you do immediately if a boat motor catches on fire?
Shut off the furl supply and use fire extinguisher
If your boat runs aground, what action do you take to shift weight away from point of impact?
Stop the engine and life the outdrive
Who's responsible for ensuring everyone on board a vessel understands basic safety practices?
The vessel operator
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 sale water areas
What is the first action required of a boat operator who witnesses a boating accident?
To provide 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 reload your boat
How can a propeller strike accidents be avoided?
Turn off engine when passengers are boarding
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, doors
Which type of PFD will turn most unconscious persons face up in the water?
Type I
On federally controlled waters in an 18 ft boat, what equipment are you required to have?
US Coast Guard approved visual distress signals
According to AL law, children of what age are required to wear a PFD while on a vessel?
Under 8 years of age
What determines if a speed is safe for your boat?
Visibility conditions
What should a vessel operator do to keep 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
Where should your trailer be located while you prepare to launch your vessel?
Well away from the boat ramp
Under what condition is a person at the greatest risk of hypothermia?
When immersed in cold water
When should a life jacket be discarded and replaced?
When it is slightly torn
In Alabama, how far must a vessel stay from a diver down flag?
100 feet
When two vessels are operating in the same area, who is responsible for avoiding a collision?
The operators of both vessels
When is a sailboat the give-way vessel when meeting a power driven vessel?
When the sailboat is overtaking the power driven vessel
What should the vessel operator tell everyone on board before departing?
Where to find PFDs and visual distress signals
