Boating FINAL EXAM

Manually powered nav lights

Anchor light visible for 2 miles in any direction.

Ski Signals

Communication becomes vital when you're the skier at the end of a 75 foot rope behind towed behind a motorboat! That's why these hand signals for skiers are so important.

Flat Bottom

typically small open boats such as jon-boats. Flat bottom boats can easily get on plane at high speeds. Typically intended for use on calm waters such as ponds, small lakes, and slow rivers, they do not handle well in choppy or rough water, especially at planing speeds. Flat bottom boats are not very stable, caution should be used when moving about.

Inspecting a trailer

efore you hit the road you should do a safety check of the loaded trailer to be certain your load is secure, the trailer is properly hitched, and lights (and brakes if you have them) function properly. This will reduce the chance you get a ticket for an equipment violation or are left stranded at the side of the road due to break-down.Coupler - The coupler on the trailer tongue will specify what ball size is required in order to hitch your trailer to the vehicle. For example, if your trailer coupler is fitted for a 2" ball, you only use a 2" ball. Be certain the coupler is firmly seated and latched to the ball and install a coupler safety pin.Safety Chains - Safety chains or safety cables should be crossed and attached to the tow vehicle. This will prevent the trailer from separating from the vehicle if the trailer were to come uncoupled. Plain "S" hooks are OK for attachment but those with a wire safety latch add extra security.Brakes and Fluid - If your trailer has brakes, check the brake fluid reservoir and top off. Attach the emergency break-away cable to the tow hitch. This will apply the brakes to the trailer if the trailer breaks free from the tow vehicle. Finally, test for proper brake function before you leave the lot.Trailer Tires - Your tires must have an "ST" rating which means it's intended for towing. They have thicker sidewalls and dissipate heat better than a vehicle tire. Check for unusual tread wear or weathered sidewalls. Replace any worn tires if needed and inflate to the required pressure. Wheel Bearings - Look for any leaking grease which may indicate a bearing seal problem. This will eventually lead to wheel bearing failure and a breakdown. Add grease through the grease fitting if required. Check the wheel for any wobble and check that lug nuts are secure.Outdrive, Outboard - Raise the outboard or outdrive to avoid any contact with the road to avoid costly repairs. Be certain any boarding ladders are secure. If your raised drive system bounces when trailering, invest in a device that takes pressure off the mount so it doesn't add stress to the transom.Drain Plug - Drain the boat of any excess water to lighten the load. If you are expecting heavy rain, leave the drain plug out but remember where you put it and install it before re-launching. If you'll be launching later that day, you might want to reinstall it now so you have one less thing to worry about.Bunk and Roller Support - Insure bunks and rollers are in proper position to support your boat. Adjust if necessary and replace parts that seized or worn. If carpeted bunks are worn through, replace it with a good quality carpet made for trailers or the outdoors that won't hold moisture.Trailer Lights - Attach the trailering wiring harness to the tow vehicle and check for proper function of all the lights. This will require someone in the cab of the tow vehicle applying brakes and activating turn signals while someone else verifies they work properly. Remember, working lights are required on every trailer.Secure Load - Check all tie down points and straps. Depending on the type and size of your boat, at a minimum you should have a bow strap or winch and a back-up line or chain, and two transom tie downs. Lower or remove any canvas shade covers and be certain that anything that can blow out is stowed.

Gasp! 4 Stages of Cold Water Immersion

Experts have described what happens to the body when immersed in cold water and have summarized the features and characteristics leading to hypothermia into four distinct stages:1. Cold Shock - Falling into cold water provokes an immediate gasp reflex. If your head is under water, you'd inhale water instead of air and it is unlikely you'll resurface if you're not wearing a life jacket. Initial shock can cause panic, hyperventilation, increased heart rate and may lead to a heart-attack. This stage lasts 3-5 minutes and at this point you should concentrate on staying afloat with your head above water.2. Swimming Failure - In just 3 -30 minutes, the body will experience swimming failure. Due to loss of muscle coordination, swimming becomes a struggle and the body tends to go more vertical in the water making any forward movement increasingly difficult. That's why it is not recommended to swim for help, but remain with the boat or something else that floats while keeping your head above water while awaiting rescue.3. Hypothermia - True hypothermia sets in after about 30 minutes. Most victims never make it to this stage since 75% of individuals succumb and die in the earlier stages of cold water immersion. At this stage, regardless of your body type, size, insulation of clothing, acclimatization and other factors, your body's core temperature gets dangerously low. Your survival chances are greatly lessened at this stage. Victims are usually rendered unconscious in this stage, typically after about an hour.4. Post Rescue Collapse - A rescued victim must be handled very carefully. When a person is removed from cold water, the body will react to the surrounding air and the body position. Blood pressure often drops, inhaled water can damage the lungs, and heart problems can develop as cold blood from the extremities is released into the body core. Proper medical attention is essential to re-warm the body safely.

MSD Type III

Holding tank with Y valve

Anchor light

No other nav lights should be on while anchor light is on.

Crossing Coastal Bars

The interplay of tidal flux, ocean breakers, offshore winds, and river current makes a bar - the entrance of a river into the ocean - a highly unstable environment. Most boating accidents and fatalities on the coastal bars result from capsizing. A boat is much more apt to capsize when crossing the bar from the ocean because the seas are on the stern and the operator has less control of the steerage. When looking at the bar from seaward, you don't see the front of the seas or breakers; as a result the bar may appear much calmer than it really is.REGULATED NAVIGATION AREA: The U.S. Coast Guard has established Regulated Navigation Areas on all the coastal river bars. If the yellow lights on any of the pictured signs are flashing, a restriction from crossing the bar has been placed on recreational and uninspected passenger vessels. In accordance with 33 CFR 165.1325, the U.S. Coast Guard has the authority to restrict all recreational and uninspected passenger vessels from crossing the bar when hazardous conditions exist. Failing to comply with posted bar restrictions may result in a maximum civil penalty of $25,000.00WARNING SIGN LOCATIONS: There are two different styles of warning signs that indicate that Bar Restrictions are in place. A white diamond shape sign with orange boarder indicating "Rough Bar" with amber flashing lights are normally located IN the vicinity of the Coast Guard station or near the harbor or boat ramp. An additional warning sign is located at the boat ramps. This sign is blue in color and has amber flashing lights and say, "Warning, When Flashing", bar restrictions in effect, tune to 1610 AM. When the amber lights are flashing on any of the warning signs hazardous conditions are present and a bar restriction is in place and mariners should tune in to listen to the restriction information.BAR CONDITION AND OBSERVATION REPORTS: Observed weather and bar conditions are updated every four hours or more frequently if there is a significant change in the conditions. Marine Information Broadcasts on Channel 16 VHF FM are conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard when hazardous bar conditions and restrictions are put into place or are lifted. Mariners are strongly encouraged to monitor channel 16 VHF/FM for all notices and weather updates. The AM radio broadcast is audible within a 4 mile radius from the U.S. Coast Guard Station. It provides a continual broadcast on radio station 1610 AM containing bar conditions, bar restrictions, and local weather. You can also access current bar conditions and restriction on you smart phone or hand held device by going to, https://www.weather.gov/pqr/AllBars All boaters are reminded that Safe navigation is the responsibility of the operator of each boat. It is the boat operator's responsibility to ascertain if hazardous conditions exist and if bar restrictions are in place prior to getting underway. The U.S. Coast Guard and NOAA provide information to assist mariners in navigation safely. The information provided will be updated every four hours or when local bar conditions and or restrictions change. The information provided reflects conditions at the time the bar was observed and may not reflect current conditions. Bar conditions are subject to change without notice. This report should NOT be used as the sole source of information when making a decision to cross the bar. Mariners are advised to use all means available to safely reevaluate Bar Conditions and risk before crossing the bar.For the safest crossing: Observe the bar from a nearby perch before you go out. If it looks dangerous, it probably is. Even small breaking waves have a lot of power. If in doubt, don't go out. Know your own limitations. A rough bar is the wrong place to put your skills to the test. Be sure your boat is moderately loaded and that the load is stable. Preserving your boat's stability is most important—a sudden shift of the passengers' weight in a small boat could prove dangerous. In fact, stability will be vastly improved in a small boat if passengers lie down in the bottom of the boat as near the center line as possible. Make sure everyone aboard is wearing a life jacket before crossing. If you are caught unexpectedly on a rough bar when running in, it is imperative to keep the boat on the back of a swell. Ride the swell and keep clear of the following wave. Stay square before the seas. Keep the swells fore and aft to avoid broaching (veering broadside to the waves.) Remember that experience is the key to safe bar crossings. Gain your experience in favorable conditions and good weather, learn from the experts, and do your homework. Tell Stability, a vital factor for boats cruising in coastal waters, can be aided by proper loading. An improperly loaded or overloaded craft is susceptible to capsizing. Overloading increases the risk of seas breaking aboard the boat. It is extremely important that boats operating along the coast are sitting high enough in the water.

Stern

back of the boat

Trash and Marine Debris

-Habitat destruction -Aesthetic and Economic impacts -Human health and safety -Wildlife entanglement Here are some tips to prevent marine debris while boating Make a rule that nothing goes overboard. Have sturdy trash and recycling containers with lids on your boat. Bring all of your trash back when going out on the water. Properly dispose of cigarette butts. Purchase reusable products, containers and water bottles. Save and reuse plastic bags. Be sure to stow or tie down all gear when underway on the water or the highway. Recycle your plastic, metal, glass, paper products and monofilament fishing line. Many tackle shops offer recycling and waterfront recycling bins are becoming more commonplace. The BoatUS Foundation has built and distributed over 2,000 bins to waterfront locations around the country. If you are interested in fishing line recycling but have not seen bins near you and would like more information on how you can build your own fishing line recycling bins visit:www.boatus.org/monofilament/build-a-bin/ Under federal law, it is illegal to toss ANY garbage from a boat while you are anywhere in lakes, rivers, bays, sounds, and offshore in the ocean less than 3 miles. All boats 26 ft or more in length must have garbage and oil discharge placards prominently posted to remind you and your crew what can be thrown overboard and what can't. The placards must be permanently attached, made of durable material, and at least 5 by 9 inches in size. Boats 40 ft and longer must also have a written waste management plan, stating how you deal with the collected waste onboard, who handles it, and where it is disposed. It is recommended that you keep the plan in your onboard ships papers. Click here to view some sample waste management plans.

launching

10 Step Pre-Launch ChecklistThe boat ramp can be a busy place during boating season, especially on weekends. In order to get launched safely and quickly, here are some tips that can help. The better you are prepared the smoother it will go and the less looks and stares you'll get at the boat ramp.Before You Back Down: Move coolers and as much other gear from the tow vehicle to the boat. If you have a starting battery switch turn it on now and insert the ignition key. Disconnect tie-downs and transom straps but keep the boat attached to the trailer with both the winch bow strap and the safety chain on the bow eye. Install the drain plug and remove the transom saver if you use one. This may also be the time to partially lower the outboard or stern drive but don't let it bottom out on the way down the ramp. Roll down the windows in the tow vehicle so you can communicate with your help and have everyone else get out of the vehicle before you back down the ramp. Backing Down the Ramp: When backing the boat trailer, put your hand on the bottom of the steering wheel. When your hand moves left or right, the trailer will go in the same direction. Hopefully you practiced! If the trailer starts to jackknife or becomes difficult to straighten, go forward just enough to straighten out and start again. It's easier than making huge swings to correct. Once you've reached the water level where the boat can be launched, put the vehicle in park, set the parking brake, and chock the front wheels if you wish for extra security. Remove the winch strap or cable from the bow eye and the safety chain and push the boat into the water while your crew holds dock lines attached to both bow and stern. Move the boat to the end of the dock or if possible, to the opposite side of the dock away from the boat ramp. Do not congregate on the ramp, especially if someone is ready to use it. Once the boat is safely off the trailer, pick up the wheel chocks if you used them, release the parking brake and drive the tow vehicle up the ramp and park in a designated area for boat trailers.

What is your boating environment

4. What is your boating environment?Just because it is sunny and calm outside doesn't necessarily mean the trip will go smoothly. Weather can change quickly with little warning. Thunder storms, high winds, fog, and other weather events can put a damper on your trip. Unseen factors include the tide and current - will there be enough water to get through a shallow channel? And don't forget water temperature. Even if the air temperature is warm, the water may be colder and hypothermia can occur in even the warmest of waters over time. Clothing is your first line of defense against the elements. Dress for the water temperature - not the air temperature! While cotton clothing may be comfortable, especially in warmer weather, synthetic fibers help retain body heat better. Wearing a hat is also a smart thing to do - it protects you from the sun and helps retain body heat. Are you wearing appropriate clothing for the weather conditions? And do you have spare clothing in case you get wet? Have you seen the weather report for your area? Do you have a radio to listen to the weather while you are on the water? Have you brought sunscreen to prevent sunburn, and plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration? What is the water temperature, and can you survive for long if you fall in? Can you and your crew handle rough weather? Will anyone become sick or incapacitated? Will you be traveling in the evening? If so, do you have lights, and are the lights working? Do you have nighttime signaling devices or reflective materials on your clothing?

What is your equipment

5. What is your equipment?Properly equipping your boat with the appropriate gear can make a great day even better, and can make a bad day survivable. Proper equipment really depends upon the boat, for instance, row boats on a pond need different equipment than an ocean going vessel. All vessels must adhere to the State and Federal minimum carriage requirements that we discussed in the Boating Equipment section. Knowing what kind of trip you are taking, and where you are going will help you determine what extra equipment to bring along. If you are going far from shore or other boaters, do you have (and know how to use) a VHF radio and navigation equipment such as a compass, charts and GPS? Do you have usable, properly sized and fitted life jackets for everyone? While life jackets come in a variety of prices, styles and performance abilities - the life jacket that is worn is the best one to have. How much is your life worth? More than 80% of the people who drown each year weren't wearing a life jacket! Do you have spare parts, oil, or gasoline? Do you have a first-aid kit? If you are going off-shore, do you have an EPIRB, raft, or survival suits? EPIRBS are available for rent from the BoatUS Foundation. Visit www.boatus.org/epirb for more information. Do you have even a small survival kit or "ditch bag"? Keeping a small, handy kit stocked with items such as garbage bags/emergency blankets, waterproof matches, cordage, a tarp and first aid kit can keep you going. Offshore kits should have extra food and water, a fishing kit, extra flares/signaling devices and medicines.

What can go wrong

6. What can go wrong?Planning ahead means considering what could go wrong, and thinking of how you as the skipper will handle it - or how your crew will handle it if something happens to you! Most boating fatalities are the result of poor operator judgment and a lack of awareness. Prudent skippers not only have a plan that they stick to, they also make sure the crew knows the plan, and can act accordingly in case of an emergency. When your guests come aboard, it's time to share information with them about your boat, and about your trip. The information you need to share in this orientation will depend on your boat and how complicated things are. Some considerations are: Anchoring Emergency radio operation Weather and rough waters Line handling Falls overboard Finally, make sure that someone ashore knows where you are going, and when to expect you back.Here is a simple float plan, provided to help you determine what information is helpful to rescue personnel. Leave your float plan with a responsible relative or friend! STICK TO YOUR PLAN!

Commercial barge lights

A common sight on many rivers and waterways are tugs and tows. When a tug tows or pulls a barge they must display certain lights that identify what they are, and what they are doing. Knowing the difference is very important. A tug towing a barge at night might have several hundred feet of cable between the two vessels, cable that is impossible to see. If you don't know what the lights mean, you might think that they are two different vessels and attempt to pass between them at your peril.

Spring fitting out

A complete safety inspection of the engine, hull, and other systems should take only an ho ur or two. Attention to detail in spring can make the upcoming boating season a lot safer and more enjoyable. Use the following tips to create your own checklist. Replace deteriorated zincs. Zincs are designed to deteriorate saving other underwater engine components. Zincs that disappear after one season indicate a serious problem with the boat's bonding and/or electrical system. Inspect prop(s) for dings, pitting, and distortion that can cause excessive vibration and loosen everything on the boat. Worn or loose props also cut down your top speed and fuel economy. Inspect rubber outdrive bellows for cracked, dried, or deteriorated spots. Look especially in the folds! A bellows that is suspect should be replaced. Inspect the hull for blisters, distortion, and stress cracks. Small blisters may be dried, sanded and filled. Larger blisters, hull distortion and stress cracks require professional attention. Inspect and lubricate seacocks. Consider replacing gate valves with more reliable seacocks. You also can't visually inspect a gate valve as easily. Hoses and hose clamps should be inspected and replaced as necessary. Make sure engine intake sea strainer(s) are free of corrosion and properly secured. Strainers that were not drained properly in the fall could have been bent by ice over the winter. Inspect the rudder and rudder post to make sure they aren't bent or damaged. Any looseness must be corrected. Check power steering and power trim oil levels as well as transmission fluid. Follow manufacturer's maintenance schedule or use factory-authorized mechanic.

How to Enter a Lock

A flashing red light means do not move forward, a green and amber light means proceed with caution, and an amber light means proceed under full control. Some systems may use fixed lights, but most use a flashing light system. If there is a main and an auxiliary lock, one long horn blast will mean that you are to enter the main lock (land side lock) two long horn blasts mean that you are to enter the auxiliary lock (river side lock).

Life Jacket

A life jacket (or Personal Flotation Device - PFD) is the single most important piece of equipment on your boat and the most important consideration should be size. More than two-thirds of all boating fatalities are drowning incidents and 90% of drowning victims were not wearing a life jacket. So buy a life jacket that you will wear , it could save your life.Life jackets are designed for different boating activities and water conditions and each has its own maximum buoyancy, performance level, and limitations.You should choose your life jacket based on your boating activities and conditions. Try to buy a brightly colored jacket, such as orange or yellow, so that you will be visible to rescuers. Take it out of the plastic, try it on, and learn how to adjust it for a snug fit. Then, test it in the water. Make sure it supports you and keeps your mouth and head clear of the water with no effort on your part. Then, try pulling it on once you're in the water... it's not as easy as it seems.What is Buoyancy and Why is it Important?Buoyancy is the force, expressed in pounds, required to keep you afloat with your head and chin above the water. Since everyone's buoyancy requirements are different based on size, weight, sex, age, percent body fat, and general physical condition, you should test your life jacket in the water to make sure it will offer you maximum performance when your life depends on it.

Life jackets and kids

A life jacket is no substitute for adult supervision of children around the water. Children float differently than adults, because their body weight is distributed differently, so they are more likely to float face down in the water. Children's life jackets should have a crotch strap and a neck collar for the most protection.Child life jacket sizing is based on the child's weight. Typically, child life jackets are sized in INFANT, CHILD and YOUTH sizes. Check the "user weight" on the label of any U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket when fitting a child in a life jacket. Child weights are expressed in pounds and are typically marked as 'less than 30 lbs.', '30lbs. to 50lbs.' or '50 lbs. to 90 lbs.' Size and proper fit are the most important characteristics when selecting a life jacket.Youth Life Jacket Wearing RequirementsMost states and territories mandate that children wear life jackets while on a boat under certain circumstances. If you boat in a state without a children's life jacket regulation, you are required to have all children under 13 wear a life jacket while under way, unless they are below deck or in an enclosed cabin while boating on federal waterways. In addition to the federal PFD carriage requirements, New York has the following requirements for wearing a PFD: Children under 12 years of age must wear a properly fitting and secured U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD whenever on any vessel under 65 feet in length is underway. If the child is in a fully enclosed cabin, then the child is not required to wear a PFD. Every PWC operator and passenger, and anyone towed behind a PWC, must wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD during operation. All skiers, and those towed behind a vessel participating in another tow sport, must wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD. Everyone aboard a recreational boat less than 21 feet in length must wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD between November 1st and May 1st regardless of age. Children under 12 must wear a PFD on boats 65' or less when on deck while underway!

All around lights

A sailing vessel of less than 7 meters long

Antennae

After you decide which VHF radio is best for you, your next step is to pick out an antenna. The VHF antenna is a very important part of your VHF Radio System. They come in many lengths and types so before buying a VHF antenna contact an expert and determine which style best fits your needs. If you buy the wrong antenna you will not get the performance your VHF radio is capable of producing.Gain is probably the most important specification of the antenna. Specifications are indicated in dB (decibels): the higher dB numbers, the greater the range. But, a low gain antenna is less influenced by the rolling and pitching of a boat. With increased gain, the pitching movement of the boat may cause a temporary signal reduction.On faster planing boats it is recommended that a high gain antenna be used. Conversely, on sailboats, with a masthead installation and with the mast subject to swaying, it is recommended that a lower gain antenna be used.In general, the higher the antenna, the better the range of your radio. VHFs transmit via "line-of-site" radio waves, therefore the higher the antenna, the farther your signal will reach over the horizon. You may be able to talk to the local Coast Guard station that may be over twenty miles away (because they have radio towers that can reach up to 1,400 feet in height) but not your friend who is only a few miles away because their antenna is only 10-15 feet above the water. Having an antenna with the right gain, and located as high as practical, will give you the optimal operating conditions for using your VHF radio.

Docking - Single Screw

All boats handle differently when docking. There are significant differences between three separate types of boats: single-engine, keel-equipped powerboats and sailboats; single-engine planing hulls of moderate draft powered by a single outboard or sterndrive; and keel-less powerboats driven by twin engines, whether inboards, outboards, or sterndrives.If you are routinely experiencing frustration and anxiety when entering slips or tying up to docks, the very first step is to give yourself a break: handling a boat - any boat - in tight quarters is difficult, particularly if you've got an audience and especially if you have to deal with wind and/or current.As you're going into a docking situation, it's better to relax and admit to yourself that you're probably going to make a mistake. That step in itself should help you calm down and, more importantly, slow down. Only good can come of your being more deliberate and more forgiving of yourself and your crew.

Setting an Anchor

Anchoring can be accomplished quickly and easily by following a few simple steps. Check your chart for bottom characteristics and to determine that you are anchoring in a safe and allowable place and avoid anchoring in narrow channels or areas with a great deal of boat traffic. Remember that other boats will often have different requirements for anchor rode length--larger or taller boats frequently need a great deal of rode. So keep in mind a possible swing of 360 degrees if wind shifts or current changes. Secure the end of the anchor line to a bow cleat. Make sure the line is ready to run free once tossed overboard and be certain it's not wrapped around a body part, like your leg. Head into the wind or current. Reduce speed and reverse the engine. When the boat starts to make a slight sternway through the water, lower - do not throw - the anchor. Communication between the skipper and crew is key. After you've let about a third of your line out, tug the anchor line to see how firmly it's set, and then continue to release the rode. Once you let out an appropriate amount of scope, make sure the line is properly tied off on the bow cleat. Never, ever anchor from the stern. Even if anchoring only in designated anchoring areas, it is always prudent to have the appropriate signal such as an all-around white light on to notify other boats that you are anchored at night. During the day you must display a ball shape which is sized according to the size of your boat. You should never anchor from the stern of your boat. Your engine, and the bulk of the boat's weight rest here. Stern anchoring is the most likely way to swamp or flood your boat. Staying PutIt's a good idea to take two immediate bearings. Select two items, one off each beam, that form a natural range and watch for any changes in their relationship. You can check these later to determine if you're boat is dragging anchor.

Diving lights

Another light display that you may see in resort areas, or waters that have wrecks or reefs, is the night diving configuration. This has three vertical masthead lights, that have a red-white-red sequence. You must maintain a good distance from these vessels, and you should also be aware that there may be divers near you.

Approaching a bend

Another use for one prolonged blast is when approaching a sharp bend in a waterway where boat traffic coming around the bend may not be visible.

Invasive species

Aquatic invasive species, sometimes called aquatic nuisance species or ANS are plants and animals that are not native to a waterbody. These introduced organisms can cause serious problems. Not only do they crowd out native plants and animals, they affect humans by degrading boating, swimming, and fishing areas. Aquatic nuisance species are difficult and expensive to manage and nearly impossible to get rid of once established. The best way to deal with them is to not allow them to spread to new waterbodies.Boats, trailers, waders and other fishing and boating equipment can spread aquatic invasive species from one body of water to another. It's important to remember to always CLEAN, DRAIN and DRY you boat, trailer and equipment before you leave the launch area at the end of the day.

Where are you going

Are you planning a short trip across the lake or harbor? An all-day sailing or fishing trip? Or are you going off-shore for an extended cruise? More importantly, does anyone ashore know your plans? Planning your trip route before you leave will help you determine what additional gear you might need to bring, and may help you realize that the trip may be too dangerous to undertake at that time. Is your route along a busy waterway? If not, you might want to make sure your fuel tanks are topped off, and you have a radio to contact others. Keep in mind that usually busy waterways may be just the opposite in the off-season! If you are going on an extended trip to a different port, does your destination have the facilities necessary to fix your boat, or facilities to treat a sick crew member? Will you be going with other boats, or meeting up with anyone? Most importantly, who have you left a float plan with? Include where you are going and when you're expected back. Have you checked for a Notice to Mariners from the Coast Guard identifying potential hazards and considerations for both your departure and destination areas? Are there any local hazards you need to be aware of? Ask local boaters for information on potential hazards and changes to the waterways upon which you wil be boating. Do you have all the nautical charts (waterway maps) that you will need for the areas where you'll be boating?

Naval Vessel Protection Zones

As a boater, you may be placed in a situation that may put you in legal jeopardy, if not at risk of injury or worse.NAVAL VESSEL PROTECTION ZONESOne thing you must contend with if you boat in certain areas of the country are Naval Vessel Protection Zones. These zones are designed to prevent attacks against our Navy by placing restrictions on how closely you may come to a naval vessel.The requirements are:You may not approach within 100 yards of any U.S. naval vessel. Sometimes this is an impossible thing to accomplish. If you need to pass within 100 yards of a U.S. naval vessel in order to ensure a safe passage in accordance with the Navigation Rules, you must contact the U.S. naval vessel or the Coast Guard escort vessel on your VHF radio. (Channel 16)You must operate at minimum speed within 500 yards of any U.S. naval vessel. You must proceed as directed by the vessels' commanding officer, or the official patrol.Violations of the Naval Vessel Protection Zone are a felony offense, punishable by up to 6 years in prison and/or up to $250,000 in fines. And don't forget, both the Navy and the Coast Guard are authorized to use deadly force to protect themselves...For more information on security zones go to the USCG website at www.uscgboating.org

What is your responsibility

As the captain, YOU are responsible for the safety of you, your passengers, your boat, and other waterway users. This means that even the noise your boat makes or the wake your boat creates can have an impact on other boats or property, so you are responsible. You are responsible for knowing and adhering to the federal Rules of the Road, and all state and local boating laws. You are responsible for operating in a manner that is appropriate for the conditions, meaning observing no-wake speeds where required, operating at a safe boat speed in congested waters or at times of restricted visibility such as at night. You are responsible for the safety of the people on your boat, and you are required by the Rules to assist others in need if you can safely do so. When operating around swimmers and skiers, and others that may be in the water, you must always maneuver in a safe manner and be aware of the dangers of striking them with a moving propeller. Always place engine in neutral, or more preferably, stop your engine completely before someone moves to re-board the boat. Boating is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with friends and loved ones. Enjoy the water as much as you can, but remember that others may enjoy it in ways that are different than you. Respect the rights of others, be a courteous boater, and avoid disturbing others as they too enjoy the water.

Retrieving the boat

As when you launched your boat, preparation is just as important when loading. If there are other boaters already lined up launching or leaving, wait your turn but be ready to move quickly when it's your turn. Start by getting all of your gear ready to take off the boat, and get your boat ready to go on the trailer. If you have the option, let someone off the boat to get the trailer to the water.Once you've got the trailer to the edge of the water attach the winch cable to the boat and start cranking. While many people drive the boat onto the trailer, it isn't advised. Using the engine to assist loading, also known as power loading, erodes the ramp bed, can lead to debris being sucked into the engine, and can cause an accident.After you have the boat all the way on the trailer, attach the safety chain and pull the boat the trailer away from the ramp but make sure your engine is raised first. Then follow the 10-point trailer check and safety inspection described in the previous section before hitting the road.

Trailer Hitch capacity

As you consider the ideal trailer for your boat, you should also consider what you are planning on towing it with. Many automobile manufacturers offer enhanced towing packages that add options to increase overall towing capacity. A tow vehicle's engine, transmission, cooling system, tires and rear springs are all stressed by the added weight so be sure you are not towing in excess of the stated capacity.You also need to be certain your trailer hitch is rated to handle your anticipated load. Trailer hitches are rated in four classes according to the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) they will be pulling. This chart gives you the class of hitch and the maximum capacity it is rated to tow. Class I has a maximum capacity rating of 2,000 pounds Class II has a maximum capacity rating of 3,500 pounds Class III has a maximum capacity rating of 5,000 pounds Class IV has a maximum capacity rating of 10,000 pounds The final component of the tow vehicle hitch is the hitch ball mount and the hitch ball. Both of these components also have a stated capacity rating that you want to be certain you don't exceed. Exceeding any of these ratings can lead to a real headache or worse. When it comes to safety on the road, pay close attention to these numbers and ratings as you are making your purchase decision.

Type 5 Life Jacket

Automatic Inflation Models Recommended uses: Minimum buoyancy: 22.5 to 34 lbs. depending on style. Restricted to the one use for which it is designed, for example: sailboard harness, belt pack, deck suit, float coat. Must be worn to meet federal requirements. Not guaranteed to turn an unconscious wearer face-up. Some manufacturers claim Type II performance. Some models feature a combination of CO2 inflation and built-in foam and provide 15.5 to 22 lbs. of buoyancy. Special Use Device Recommended uses: Minimum Buoyancy: 15.5 to 22 lbs. Restricted to the special use for which each is designed, for example: sailboard harness, decksuit, paddling vest, commercial white water vest or float coats. Must be worn when underway to meet minimum US Coast Guard requirements. Simply having a Type V life jacket on board will not meet the USCG carriage requirements. HYBRIDS Minimum buoyancy: 7.5 lbs. of built-in foam buoyancy and inflatable to 22 lbs.More comfortable to wear than Type I or Type II, but are inadequate for unconscious overboard victims.Inflation Mechanism:When activated, a CO2 cartridge is pierced, releasing gas to inflate the device. Water-activated models inflate automatically when submerged in water. Manual units are activated by yanking a pull-tab. Both types of inflatables feature blow-tubes to provide a back-up method of inflation. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for checking and maintaining your inflation mechanism.Maintenance:Inflatable life jackets require more frequent maintenance than inherently buoyant life jackets. Check the status of the inflator every time to be certain cartridge is properly installed and the equipment is in working order. Check for leaks every two months; inflate life jacket orally and leave it overnight to check for leaks. If it leaks then it should be replaced. Immediately replace any spent CO2 cartridges with new ones. Frequent users of inflatables should check them often, especially if used around sharp equipment like fishing gear. Make sure all straps and zippers are in working order - keep your equipment in serviceable condition. Inflatables are NOT recommended for individuals who cannot swim (unless worn inflated) and are not for use where water impact is expected, like water skiing or riding a personal water craft (PWC).Inflatable life jackets are not meant for children under the age of 16.

Preventing Accidents

Be aware of what is around you. The leading cause of PWC accidents is striking an object (usually another PWC). If you are operating your PWC in a congested area, slow down and look at what the boats around you are doing. To avoid being struck yourself, always look for other boats before making sharp or sudden turns. Larger boats may not see you, and may not be able to get out of your way in time to avoid contact. Keeping a proper lookout is key!As with any boat, operate at a safe speed. It is very easy to get thrown from a PWC, especially if you hit wakes or turn too quickly. Operating at a safe speed for the conditions will lower the risk of an accident.If you lend your PWC to a friend, make sure they know the Rules of the Road and how to operate your PWC. A large portion of PWC accidents occur with rental PWCs or when people other than the owner are operating the vessel.

New York Law equipment requirements

Beyond minimum federal equipment requirements, some states may have additional requirements and requirements for only certain bodies of water. Please check with your local waterway authority before heading out.For all New York waters: All mechanically propelled vessels, except PWCs, must carry an anchor and line of sufficient weight and strength to provide the vessel with safe anchorage.The New York Office of Parks & Recreation also recommends the consideration of the following items depending on the length of your boat and where you do your boating: Compass and charts Coast Guard Approved Visual distress signals (NY State law requirement for mechanically propelled vessels greater than 16 ft. in length) Marine VHF radio and cell phone Extra starting battery, paddle or oar Mooring line, heaving line, fenders, boat hook Flashlight, bailer, mirror, searchlight, binoculars First aid kit, extra clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, food and water Spare parts, spare propeller, tools, marine hardware, fuel and fuel tank

For boats under 20 feet, or boats without a capacity plate, a general way to determine how many people you may safely carry is to use the following formula:

Boat Length (in feet) X Beam (in feet ) /15

Wind and current

Both coastal and inland boaters are familiar with currents, the horizontal flow of water. Currents are also found in open water where they range from huge, persistent ocean movements such as the Gulf Stream or currents caused by the push of prevailing winds.A boat's handling characteristics are affected by wind and current, no matter what type of hull and power combination it has. Keeping a course or maneuvering in close quarters may be straightforward on a calm day during a slack tidal current (halfway through the tidal transition), but the boat may become difficult to handle when coping with a stiff crosswind or crosscurrent.Since the bow on many power boats is higher than the stern, they tend to get pushed away from the wind, despite what is done at the helm.Hull type has the most effect on how a boat reacts to the current. Displacement hulls with deep draft are affected by current to a greater extent than shallow-draft, lighter, planing-type hulls. Because water is denser than air even a slight cross current may have more effect on a displacement cruiser than a stiff 15 to 20 knot wind.On the other hand, given the same conditions, a planing-type hull with a high structure could be more affected by wind than by current. Neither a displacement nor a planing boat can ignore the wind and current. Skippers of both will find one of them a major factor affecting the boat's maneuverability. This is critical to remember when operating at low speed in close quarters.Regardless of the boat you are on, when operating in large waves and high winds, head into the waves at a slight angle, and reduce your speed. This will help you maintain control, and avoid falling off of a wave or having a wave break over your stern.

Registration requirements

CHARACTERSBlock letters not less than 3 inches high. COLORMust be a color contrasting with the background. SPACINGHyphen or equivalent space between 3 parts of your number PLACEMENT ON BOATPainted or attached to each side of forward part of the vessel. (Always reading left to right) Vessels manufactured after 1972 will have a Hull Identification Number which is the 12 or 17 digit serial number of the vessel. This number is usually located on the upper right portion of the vessel's transom. The number indicates the boat manufacturer, its serial number, and the month and year of production. It is used to register the boat, to identify an individual boat and can help locate your boat if stolen. You may not legally: Alter the 12 or 17 digit number so that it appears to be a different boat. Paint over the number. Obscure the number. Otherwise destroy, deface or remove the number.

Capacity and Trailer size

Capacity and Trailer SizeFirst, you should know some critical measurements like the length and width of your boat. Next, you need to know the weight of your fully loaded boat which must include the motor, gear, accessories and fuel (six pounds per gallon). This extra weight adds up fast and is always much higher than the manufacturer's listed weight which doesn't include these extras.Once you know the estimated weight of your fully loaded boat, you can shop for a trailer that has suitable capacity. Federal law requires that a trailer display its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), which is the total weight the trailer is rated to carry. This is usually found on a decal or small plate near the trailer tongue. Some experts suggest that as a margin of safety the total weight of the boat and gear be no more than 85% of the trailer's GVWR.A trailer that is too small or overloaded is more than just an inconvenience, it's dangerous. If purchasing a trailer is in your future don't be tempted to skimp on overall capacity. If a dealer is trying to convince you to go up in overall capacity, it's not a sales pitch. It's his best attempt to ensure you have a good experience on the road and a safe voyage ahead of you.Single Axle vs Dual AxleMost boat trailers have either one or two axles. A larger boat will require a larger trailer which distributes the load over multiple axles and multiple tires. Generally speaking, a dual axle trailer tracks better and is less likely to fish tail. While they cost more and require more upkeep, boat owners who have traded-up to a dual axle trailer almost always report that they are pleased with the results, especially with larger boats. The extra wheels also mean a smoother ride and safer handling in the event of a blowout.Multiple axle trailers also distribute the load better over the wheels and the axles. The trailer manufacturer will also specify the load carrying capacity of an axle which is its Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) which is not to be confused with the GVWR. On a single axle trailer, the GVWR and the GAWR are the same. For dual axle trailers, the GVWR is equal to twice the GAWR.

Carbon Monoxide Awareness

Carbon monoxide has become an important issue for boaters. In recent years there have been instances of CO exposure while boaters engage in teak surfing or swim-step dragging, and instances where heaters and air conditioners have been improperly vented causing fatalities.Recommendations: It is highly recommended that enclosed passenger spaces on your motorboat have a carbon monoxide detector to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Do not allow anyone to sit on the rear swim step while the engine is running. Do not allow anyone to drag themselves by the swim step behind a boat with an engine running. Make sure that houseboats as well as cabin motorboats have adequate ventilation in the cabin compartment from exhaust given off by generators, heaters, and air conditioners.

Safeguard your family

Care and Storage of Your Life Jacket Stow life jackets in an accessible place. Life jackets that are stored far from where everyone sits, or under gear are virtually worthless in an emergency. USCG requires that wearable life jackets be READILY ACCESSIBLE AT ALL TIMES. Also, at least one Type IV throwable device must be IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE for boats over 16 feet in length. Teach your children how to put on their life jackets. Make a game or race of putting a life jacket on. It's the best way for children --and adults-- to learn how to don a life jacket quickly. To make it more challenging, try putting them on in the water--it is far more difficult than you might think! The US Coast Guard requires that all life jackets that have zippers, straps and/or buckles must be in working condition; this is the definition of "serviceable condition" used by the Coast Guard.

cathedral

Cathedral hulls are two or more hulls attached closely together. This combination of hulls allows for much more stability than what is found in other hull forms. The air pocket that is formed between the hulls may also provide lift, helping the boat get on plane more easily and increasing efficiency.

Some radio options

Citizen band radio is intended for the public to have economical access to two-way radio communication. CB is allocated 40 specific frequencies between 26.965 and 27.405 mHz, commonly referred to as channels 1-40. Channel 9 is reserved for emergency communications. The usual reliable range of CB radios is five miles. Making contact with a CB radio on the water may be difficult, since not all boats have CB radios. Channel noise and station traffic are sometimes heavy, and the Coast Guard doesn't monitor the emergency channel. Family Radio Service radios are intended for personal, non-commercial use like CB radios. They are very handy because they can be used on land or water. These "walkie-talkies" can be purchased just about anywhere. They are perfect for outdoor trips with friends and family where you need to stay in contact. And they also help with communications while still on the boat, from bow to stern or above and below deck. The range is typically 1-2 miles and is line-of-sight like VHF and cell phones. They have limited battery power and no emergency channel. Because these units have become so popular, you may want to pre-arrange what channel you will be using and test it out. Very often one or more channels will be overloaded, especially in crowded areas.

Reccomended equipment

Coast Guard minimum requirements are just that, minimum.It is suggested you carry additional safety equipment, such as: anchor with sufficient line/chain (at least five times water depth) bailer (bucket) oars or paddles first aid kit VHF radio extra fuel & water tool kit sun protection flashlight The United States Power Squadrons and the US Coast Guard Auxiliary offer free vessel safety checks to help boaters make sure they have all of their appropriate equipment on board which is required by the Coast Guard. For more information and to schedule a vessel safety check for your boat visit www.safetyseal.net.

Caring for your life jacket

DO'S: Check your life jackets at the beginning of each boating season - all hardware and straps are in good shape, firmly attached, and in working order; check for leaks, mildew, lumpy or hardened foam, & oil saturation in the fabric. Make sure that there are no rips or tears in the fabric and that the USCG approval label is attached and readable. Discard and replace life jackets that show signs of deterioration - tears, mildew stains, punctures, etc. DON'TS: Don't use a life vest or throwable flotation cushion as a kneeling pad or boat fender. Don't use harsh detergents or gasoline to clean it. Don't remove any labels, straps or buckles. Don't sew ANYTHING onto the life jacket. STORAGE: Store in an area with good ventilation. If wet, allow it to dry thoroughly in open air before storing. Drying it in a dryer, in front of a radiator, or other source of direct heat will destroy its buoyancy. The amount of buoyancy (and life-saving value) your life jacket provides will decrease over time.

Dayboards and Safe Water Marks

Dayboards - These diamond shaped marks are used to help the vessel operator determine location on a nautical map. When you see a dayboard and find the corresponding mark on the chart, you know your precise location. They may be lettered and may be lit with a white light. Their color reflects that of nearby lateral marks.Safe Water Marks - Also known as Mid-Channel Buoys, these marks are used to mark fairways, mid-channels, and offshore approach points. They have unobstructed water on all sides. These marks may be lettered and may be lit with a white light. They may also have a red top mark.

Line And Gear

Depending upon the size and type of your boat, and where you anchor--your choices for an anchor line are either an all-rope anchor rode, a combination of rope and chain, or all chain.The best all around line for anchoring is three-strand twisted nylon. Three-strand line can absorb shock and the constant tugging associated with anchoring much better than braided line or chain alone. Chain may also be used, especially in anchorages that are primarily rock or coral, which may cut a nylon line. A length of chain should be used between the anchor and a longer length of line. The chain will add weight to set your anchor without making it too heavy to lift manually, while serving to exert a horizontal pull on the anchor to set it.Nylon Three-Strand line is the leading choice for use as an anchoring line. Lines generally come in a "soft" or "medium" lay. Soft lines are generally softer to the touch, and loosely woven. These aren't as good as medium or hard lines for anchoring as they are more prone to unraveling and chafing. Tightly wrapped lines are the best choice for anchoring. Lines that have been treated with a wax-like coating are available. These lines resist water/salt absorption. To help keep your lines in good shape, clean them from time to time by soaking them in soapy water. Never use bleach as it can break down the line.Chain may be used instead of nylon line for anchoring. Chain has several benefits, including added weight, chafe and wear resistance, and high strength. It also lowers the angle of pull on the anchor, which helps it to set more firmly into the bottom. Chain is generally found made of galvanized steel, though you can find stainless steel and vinyl coated chain, which is designed to be non-marring to your deck.As the saying goes, a chain is only as strong as it's weakest link...make sure that your anchor and line are attached to each other with adequate gear. Some lines come with plastic thimbles or eyes--but metal, either marine-grade stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized steel, is best. Swivels and shackles should be inspected regularly for wear, and to ensure that the connections are tight and functional.

DSC and licensing

Digital Selective CallingDigital Selective Calling, or DSC, is the equivalent of a "mayday button" on a VHF or SSB. When activated, it automatically broadcasts an encoded distress call that will be picked up by all nearby vessels equipped with DSC. If the radio is interfaced with a GPS unit, it will also automatically broadcast the distressed vessel's position.All fixed-mount radios and many handheld units now include DSC as a feature. To use DSC, you must obtain a MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) number. You can get an MMSI from a few places online including www.boatus.com/mmsi.LicensingSince 1996, most recreational boaters are no longer required to obtain an individual Ship Station License from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). However, boaters still need a VHF Ship Station License if: They travel to or broadcasting in a foreign port (including Canada, Bahamas, Caribbean) The boat is 65 feet or longer They use single sideband radios or Inmarsat equipment They are a commercial vessels Those traveling to or broadcasting in a foreign port must also obtain a Restricted Radiotelephone Operator's Permit (RP). However, if you (1) merely plan to sail in domestic or international waters without docking in any foreign ports and without communicating with foreign coast stations, and (2) your radio operates only on VHF frequencies, you do not need an RP.For more information on FCC rules and regulations, and to download license applications, visit https://www.fcc.gov/

Displacement Hulls

Displacement hulls typically have a rounded bottom with a teardrop shape running bow to stern. Displacement hulls displace or move, an amount of water equal to the weight of the boat. Displacement hulls are very efficient. Most long range cruising boats such as trawlers and many sailboats use this type of hull. But because of their design, displacement hulls are restricted in their speed to the square root of their waterline length times 1.34.

State Specific Registration Requirements

Documented Vessels: Large vessels that are eligible for documentation with the U.S. Coast Guard must also be registered in New York with the DMV. Documented vessels are exempt from displaying state numbers but must still properly display validation stickers and carry aboard their certificate of registration anytime the boat is in operation. Titles: The New York DMV also issues titles to all 1987 model year and newer vessels which are 14 feet in length or longer. Your certificate of title is your proof of ownership and should be kept in a safe place. When you sell your boat, you will need to sign your title over to the new owner. If your motorized vessel is less than 14 feet, then your certificate of registration is your proof of ownership. You will need to sign your registration over to the new owner when you sell your boat. Registration: To register your vessel, you must submit Motor Vehicle's form MV-82B, registration fees, proof of payment of sales tax, proof of ownership, and the bill of sale to the New York DMV. For subsequent renewals, you will not be required to furnish proof of ownership. If the boat is new or is a vessel being registered for the first time you will need to submit the original certificate, or statement, of origin from the boat's manufacturer. Once the DMV is in receipt of the required information, you will be issued a certificate of registration, which contains the registration number that must be affixed to your boat and a set of validation stickers which must also be properly displayed next to your number. The boat registration and expiration decals are valid for 3 years!

Night use only

Electric Distress Light for Boats:The electric distress light is accepted for night use only and must automatically flash the international SOS distress signal, which is three short flashes, three long flashes, and three short flashes. It must be marked that it meets U.S. Coast Guard requirements. When flashed four to six times each minute, this is an unmistakable distress signal, well known to most boaters. An ordinary flashlight is not acceptable since it must be manually flashed and does not normally produce enough candle power.No person in a boat shall display a visual distress signal on water under any circumstances except in a situation where assistance is needed because of immediate or potential danger to the persons aboard. Violation of this regulation comes with heavy fines and possible jail time.DAY AND NIGHT USE - Must be Coast Guard Approved Hand-Held Pyrotechnic Flare Distress Signals - these look like road flares and require a motion to ignite the flare by striking it using the cap. Hold these away from your body as they are very hot. Launchable Pyrotechnic Flare Distress Signals - These devices may be either meteor or parachute assisted type. Some of these signals require a suitable launching device like a special pistol style gun.

Crew overboard

Falling overboard is a major cause of fatalities involving small boats due to the instability of small vessels. Once aboard, be sure the load is balanced and concentrate weight low to prevent tipping the boat. Position yourself in the center of the boat and stay low for stability. Avoid standing and sudden movements and plan ahead to avoid unsafe operating conditions like bad weather or rough water.Crew-overboard (COB) victims face a number of dangers, including panic, injury during the fall, and hypothermia. For those aboard the boat, quick thinking and coordinated action are essential to an effective rescue. Control of the situation is most likely to be maintained by those who have prepared themselves with regular drills.However, not many people ever consider how to handle this situation, let alone actually practice COB procedures with the crew. Before you even leave the dock there are several things you can do to be prepared should someone fall overboard even without practicing COB procedures.Have life jackets equipped with whistles and waterproof flashlights. For less than $10 you can increase someone's chances of a quick pick-up (especially at night). In cold or heavy weather and at night, you are much better off wearing your life jacket.Practice throwing a life ring or cushion. They're harder to throw than you think! You can practice on a dock to check your range and accuracy.Show everyone where life-saving gear is located, and how to use it. Knowing how to use equipment will save valuable time when it counts.While on the water, your first priority is to stay calm. The best way to do that is by practicing your COB procedure regularly. Pick a rescue technique such as the "quick-stop" or "figure eight" (described in great detail in many seamanship books). Acting on instinct and acting immediately will save time and reduce panic for you and your crew.

Rendering Assistance

Finding immediate help on the water is often not as easy as flagging down a passing motorist on a busy highway. As such, boaters should be aware of their surroundings and the possibility that a fellow boater may need assistance. In a true emergency, there may be no time for flares or other signaling devices - so the waving of arms may be the only thing that alerts you to a potential problem. As a boater, you are required to render assistance if you are involved in or witness an accident, or happen upon an emergency situation, as long as it does not endanger you, your crew or vessel, or further endanger those involved. The law protects those that render assistance and protects the Good Samaritan from damages as a result of rendering assistance, as long as the individual acts as a reasonably prudent individual would under the circumstances.

Dont leave without it

Fire extinguisher Life jackets Backfire flame arrestors Visual distress signals Bell, whistle Ventillation Engine cut off switch

Operating In A Narrow Channel

First and foremost, you have to avoid larger vessels that can only travel in a channel. Even if your vessel is operating under the rules otherwise, you must give way to a boat that could potentially run aground or get into a collision if they left the channel.Try to operate on the edge of the channel towards the starboard side. Be extra cautious if you come to a bend in the waterway and can't see traffic coming towards you. You may sound one prolonged blast as a warning to traffic headed your way.When operating in a narrow channel or fairway, downbound vessels (vessels going downstream) have priority when passing through bridges and other narrow areas. The downbound vessel shall propose the manner and place of passage and shall initiate the maneuvering signals between itself and any upbound vessel.

Landing Without Injury

Five Rules for Avoiding Docking InjuriesRule # 1. Before each docking maneuver, make sure everyone understands what he or she will be doing. You should be aware of where your crew is and what each member is doing at all times.Rule #2. Don't encourage your crew to make Olympian leaps onto the dock. This is one of the most common types of accidents. Whenever possible, hand docklines to someone on the dock or wait until the boat is safely alongside before stepping ashore.Rule #3. Keep fingers and limbs inside the boat! As a boat gets close to a dock, passengers tend to gravitate toward the rail and drape fingers, legs and arms over the side of the boat. If the boat suddenly swings into a dock or piling, the consequences can be painful.Rule #4. Make sure everyone else that is not assigned to a task is seated or has something to hold onto. A sudden bump or a quick shift into reverse can send people toppling.Rule #5. It might sound obvious, but don't use bodies to stop the boat.Too often, people think they can stop a boat by pushing off with hands or feet. Slow down and use fenders and have them ready before you approach the dock. Larger boats carry great momentum.

Flags as signals

Flags serve a variety of purposes in the marine environment. There is no legislation governing the flying of any flag on numbered, undocumented or licensed vessels. However, there is a proper etiquette involved when displaying flags.Recreational boaters may fly flags to display boating affiliations. For example, many yacht clubs provide triangular shaped burgees to members. And, members of the U.S. Power Squadrons and U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary fly flags to identify themselves. Boaters also fly flags to identify their home state or nationality.Flags are also used for specific boating activities and navigational purposes. For example, boats with scuba divers must fly a "diver down" flag when divers are in the water. There are two types of diver down flags and both are appropriate to display. They are a red flag with a white diagonal stripe and a rigid replica of an "alfa" flag. Another example are the flags used by committee members and participants of events sponsored by US Sailing.

Hull Shapes

Flat Bottom Hull, Deep Vee Hull, Round Bottom Hull, Cathedral Hull, Tunnel Hull

Fog

Fog is one of the more unpredictable weather patterns that you might encounter, and it takes practice and skill to knowingly enter fog and not have a panic attack. Here are a few tips to deal with fog. A depth/fish-finder, a GPS, and a radar, when used in conjunction with a chart, can help you avoid hitting objects. If you have these items aboard, practice using them! Go out on a clear day, and practice navigating by instruments. If you don't have electronic equipment, use the equipment nature gave you - your eyes, your ears, and your brain, and follow these steps:STOP! Assess your situation - are you in a busy channel, or near shore? Or are you out in the open? Being aware of your surroundings is the first step in dealing with fog.If you can, anchor your boat, and simply ride out the fog. But listen closely for other vessels that might approach, and make sure that you have a sound producing device to let the other vessels know of your presence.If you must proceed, go slowly. Going fast puts you at much greater risk - it is harder to hear other vessels, you will have less reaction time to avoid an accident, and if you do get in an accident, it will be more severe than if you were going slowly.Don't try to hug the shore, or head back to harbor, it is an accident waiting to happen. Generally, it is safer to move your vessel to an uncongested, deep area of water and wait.

Docking

For many people, docking their boat is one of the most trying experiences to be had on the water. Attempting to tie up to a busy fuel dock on a windy weekend day can test anyone's piloting skills.The things you need to notice when you are about to dock is where you intend to tie up, where other boats are, what the wind is doing, and to a lesser extent what the current is doing. Look and see how much room you have to maneuver your vessel around the area you intend to dock. Docking next to a long open pier is usually going to be easier than backing into a narrow slip in a confined marina. Prior to your docking manuever you should see if other boats are leaving or entering the area you need to turn. How other boats are tied up or moving about in close quarters can greatly alter your intended steering and docking and require you to change your plan. Current can also affect your docking in a similar fashion to wind, and in some areas can preclude you from docking at all in low water. Consult your tide tables, especially when traveling in new waters. At all times, maintain no more than steerage speeds and try and have some crew ready with lines to tie off immediately. Using your lines to assist in docking can save a great deal of time and energy. Lines can be used to pivot a boat around a piling or even a fender to help bring either end of your boat to the dock. Let the lines do the work!Knowing which way the wind is blowing can greatly aid your docking. When coming alongside a pier with the wind in your face, head in at a steep angle to the pier and turn sharply at the last moment to avoid being blown out by the wind. If the wind is at your stern, come into the dock at a narrow angle and let the wind do the work of pushing your boat up against the dock.

Before guests step aboard

For many people, their only boating experiences come from being a guest on boats such as yours. As a "boating ambassador" the more you can do to put them at ease, the better. Show them around the boat, show them how to use equipment, and what they can expect when they go out on the water. Share your knowledge with them--you will help them be safer on the water, and you will help them enjoy the water that much more. Having a safe and enjoyable boating trip begins well before you step aboard the boat. No matter what the weather is before you start your trip, and no matter what your boating experience--there is no guarantee that the trip will go according plan. The following seven questions are derived from Water Wise - Safety for the Recreational Boater, produced by the University of Alaska Sea Grant.Before you step aboard your vessel, there are seven questions that you should answer to ensure a safe trip for you, your crew, and your boat: DO YOU KNOW YOUR BOAT? WHO WILL BE ABOARD? WHERE ARE YOU GOING? WHAT IS YOUR BOATING ENVIRONMENT? WHAT IS YOUR EQUIPMENT? WHAT CAN GO WRONG? WHAT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY?

Fuel spills and prevention

For those who are looking for a simple solution to prevent spills there are a wide range of absorbent products available. While some fuel docks supply an absorbent pad to every fuel dock customer, it is a good idea to keep a few on hand. You should also keep bilges clean and free of oil drips to reduce the risk of pollution.Fuel Bib: Shaped like a small baby bib. Slides over fuel filler neck to catch drips and overflow.Fuel Collar: Shaped like a donut. Slides over fuel nozzle to catch overflow and prevent backsplash.Absorbent Pads: Looks like a cloth diaper. Use them like a paper towel or sponge to absorb fuel/oil while leaving the water behind.Bilge Sock: Looks like an athletic sock filled with absorbent material. They can fit into tight places under the engine or in the bilge.Spill Booms: Sausage shaped absorbents that can be hooked together to put around a boat, dock or large spill.

MSD Type I

Found on boats up to 65 feet, uses maceration and disinfection

MSD Type II

Found on large commercial vessels

Oil and Fuel disposal

Giving clear cut guidance on disposal of oil and fuel soaked materials is not easy. Disposal guidelines vary widely from one local jurisdiction to another. Here are a few points to consider when disposing of oil and fuel soaked materials.When at the marina fuel dock or gas station: Look for a separate metal bin labeled for absorbent disposal. Ask the fueling staff how and where they would like you to dispose of saturated absorbent materials. Do not just throw them in the garbage or leave them next to the pump. If they do not have a program that handles used absorbents separately, encourage them to consider adopting one. Find out about disposal options in your area visit www.earth911.com for more information. When at home: Store any saturated pads or rags in a metal container with a tight fitting lid. Check with your local gas station or auto repair shop to see if they will accept your used pads and rags. Ask your local waste disposal department about hazardous waste pickup days in your community. Find out about your local disposal regulations. Contact your local waste management department. Discharge of fuel, oil or any oil product, including contaminated bilge water, is strictly prohibited. All boats 26 feet or longer must properly display a 5 x 8 inch "Discharge of Oil Prohibited" placard near the bilge pump switch or in the machinery spaces. All boats 26 feet or longer, when operating in waters under federal jurisdiction, must display an informational placard on the subject of federal marine pollution prevention laws. The placard must be 4 x 9 inches and placed in a location where crew and passengers can read it. All boats 40 feet or longer operating more than 3 miles from shore that are equipped with a galley and berthing, must also carry a Waste Management Plan. This plan must outline procedures for proper marine pollution regulations for garbage management and designate a person in charge of carrying out this plan.

Day Use only

Hand Held Orange Smoke Distress SignalsFloating Orange Smoke Distress SignalsThese come in two varieties, one lasting approximately 5 minutes, one lasting 15 minutes.Orange Distress Signal Flag for BoatsThe distress flag has a black square and black circle on an orange background. It is accepted as a day signal only and is especially effective in bright sunlight. The flag is most distinctive when waved on something such as a paddle or a boat hook or flown from a mast. This flag should be three feet by three feet (3'x3') although some inland states only require it to be two feet by two feet (2'x2') or two square feet.Sea-marker dye is useful when air search has been initiated. These dyes come in several colors and should only be used when chances of being spotted are high.Although not recognized by USCG as a carriage requirement, a well-handled signal mirror can be very effective in calling attention to oneself. It is low in cost and has an unlimited shelf life.

Your Role In Keeping Our Waterway's Safe And Secure

Here are a few things to keep in mind while out on the water:Keep your distance from all military, cruise line, or commercial shipping. In addition to the Naval Security Zone requirements, you may also not operate your vessel near certain commercial vessels. It's best just to avoid all commercial vessels if possible.Observe and avoid all security zones and commercial port operations. Areas that have a large marine facilities including military, commercial/cruise, or petroleum facilities should be avoided. There are also restrictions near most dams, power plants and other facilities located near water.Don't stop or anchor beneath bridges or in shipping channels. If you do, you can expect to be asked to move and/or be boarded by law enforcement officials.Keep a sharp eye out for things that are out of the ordinary. You are asked to report all activities that seem suspicious to the local authorities. To report suspicious activity, call the National Response Center at 877-24WATCH. If there is immediate danger to life or property, call 911 or the U.S. Coast Guard on Channel 16. Do not approach or challenge those acting in a suspicious manner.Wear your life jacket. Wearing your life jacket, and operating in accordance with the Rules of the Road and other boating regulations will ease the burden on the Coast Guard and other law enforcement personnel.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips on how to keep your boat in shape and protect your boating environment: Reuse and recycle. Recycle spent antifreeze, fuel, oil, oil filters, and batteries. Use less toxic propylene glycol antifreeze whenever possible, but check before mixing it with other antifreeze for recycling. Clean your boat's bottom. Keeping your hull clean and free of barnacles, grass and other marine growth will help reduce fuel consumption, and help increase your boats' performance. Clean your bilge. Having a clean bilge will help you spot fuel/oil leaks, and help you avoid discharging petroleum into the water. A clean bilge is also much easier on your nose! Wash your boat often. Try to wash your deck off regularly with fresh water and a scrub brush to reduce the amount of strong chemical cleaners needed throughout the boating season. If your boat is hauled for the winter, use that time to do any significant cleaning or repairs, to reduce the potential for pollutants to enter the water. Clean naturally. By using natural cleaners such as vinegar and baking soda, or biodegradable cleaners and detergents, you will help reduce the amount of solvents and chemicals going into the water. To learn more on environmentally sound boat maintenance, check out the BoatUS Foundation Clean Boating Course.

Docking Techniques

Here is an example scenario of using your dock lines to get your boat to do what you want it to do, in conjunction with rudder and throttle control.You are heading for a fuel dock to get some gas. The problem is, you have to place your boat between two boats that are already tied up. And, to complicate matters, there's a slight breeze blowing directly off the dock.The dock attendant is on hand and looking nervous because you won't have much clearance fore and aft. Don't worry! Ask one of your crew to throw him a line that is already cleated at the bow. As the dock attendant grabs your line, ask him to attach it to a piling just aft of the boat in front of the space into which you must fit.Now, with the line secured at the dock and your wheel turned hard toward the dock (to starboard in this example), just put your boat in reverse gear, at idle speed.Your boat will start drifting sideways, into the allotted space. If you're working against current or wind and your progress is too slow, just advance the throttle slightly. You can also make small adjustments in your approach angle and speed by turning the wheel slowly one way or the other.

Ventilation systems

If you have enclosed areas on your boat, a ventilation system can do many things for you. If you have any gasoline powered engines aboard, a ventilation system is a legal requirement. They can also help prevent mildew and bad odors, and even save your life by taking carbon monoxide and gasoline fumes out of the boat.Ventilation systems must have two parts--an air inlet, and a separate air outlet. Both the inlet and the outlet must have ducts--which are tubes or hoses that extend down into the boat. Ducting for the exhaust must be located in the lower third of the hull--but above any bilge water. Ducting should be routed away from any heat sources, should not be "kinked", and should be inspected regularly for cracks or debris such as bird nests. Intakes are usually pointed forward, exhausts usually face aft.Boats must have a ventilation system that is adequate for the size of space in which it is used. For most boats that works out to having two inlets and exhausts, with each vent having ducting from 3" diameter hose for smaller boats to 5" hose for larger boats.There are two types of ventilation systems that you should be aware of.Natural Ventilation:A natural, or passive, ventilation system consists of vents, cowls and other permanent openings in the boat that are designed to let air enter or exit using wind power or the boats' motion to move the air.This type of system is rather ineffective at clearing fumes when the boat is not in motion, so it used primarily for living spaces and tank/bilge areas. It can be used in engine compartments, but only in conjunction with powered blowers.Power Blowers/Vents:The USCG requires the use of a mechanical ventilation system for all non-open boats built after July 31, 1980 that run on gasoline. Even if your boat is older, it still must conform to USCG minimum ventilation levels, and may require a bilge blower to satisfy those guidelines. A bilge blower is important not only because it's required, but because your life may depend on it.Bilge Blowers are specifically designed to clear gasoline fumes from closed compartments. They are ignition protected to prevent sparks, and are built to resist overheating and corrosion. The size blower you need is determined by the volume of your engine compartment. It is recommended that you use a blower at least 4 minutes before you ever start the engine, and especially after fueling.

Emergencies

In emergency situations there are certain procedures to follow to ensure a prompt response. There are three phrases that you might hear on a VHF radio and they all relate to safety: MAYDAY - distress signal, requires the most urgent response. This signal is only to be used when a person or boat is threatened by grave or imminent danger and requires assistance. PAN-PAN - (pahn-pahn) used to signal urgent information like man overboard or a boat is drifting towards a hazard. If your emergency isn't immediately life threatening say Pan-Pan instead of Mayday. An example would be if you have a controllable leak and you want help standing by in case it gets worse. SECURITE - (se-cure-ih-tay) the safety signal, is used to transmit information about the safety of navigation. For instance, if a large commercial vessel is coming through a narrow channel this signal would be used. It can also be used to transmit weather information, such as when a storm system is approaching. Should you need to make a distress call: turn your VHF to Channel 16 press the transmit button on the mic say one of the three phrases three times, along with position and situation information. Here's an example mayday from the fishing boat Tambourine: " Mayday, Mayday, Mayday. This is the Tambourine. Our position is 24 degrees 33 minutes north and 74 degrees 56 minutes west and we are sinking ." Try to speak slowly and clearly then repeat this information three times. The call should include Mayday, your position, and your emergency. If you have time, describe your boat and how many are aboard: " We are a 23 foot Mako, green hull, white decks, with two adults and two children aboard ."If you don't get an immediate response repeat your Mayday broadcast periodically as long as the radio will function, be sure to give your position with every transmission. If you don't hear responses on other channels try calling on Coast Guard Channel 22A.

When To Wear A Life Jacket

In general, the best time to wear your life jacket is when you are near the water. Accidents happen, both on the dock and on quiet, still waters. In fact, most boating fatalities occur when the boat is moving slowly or not at all. While you should always wear your life jacket, it is particularly important to wear your life jacket during the following times: Boating at night, or at times of reduced visibility - When it is hard to see, it will take longer to find you if you fall overboard. In congested waterways - Many boats and turbulent water might make it difficult to see you in the water. Wearing a life jacket will get you higher up, and the jacket colors should make you easier to see. When you are by yourself - If you boat alone, there's generally no one around that can help immediately. If you boat in rough weather - Difficult sea conditions make for difficult rescues. If you boat in hazardous waters - Hydraulics near dams, or in places with strong currents/cold water - even if it's sunny and warm - can make it difficult to rescue you quickly. Even if you avoid these situations, if you are on an unfamiliar boat, or in unfamiliar waters, you should strongly consider wearing your life jacket. By law, recreational vessels must carry a properly fitted, serviceable life jacket for every person on board.A life jacket should be comfortable to wear; it should not be too tight or too loose. Keep in mind a life jacket may fit somewhat differently when in the water. Since life jackets are buoyant, it may float up on the user if improperly fitting or adjusted. When in doubt about sizing, refer to the label on the inside of any U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket. Here, you will find a size usually expressed as ADULT SMALL through ADULT XX-Large, a recommend "user weight" and "chest size" for the intended wearer.Finally, life jackets must be READILY AVAILABLE for use. That means they shouldn't be buried in a locker under a pile of gear, or still in their packaging. Have them out, and ready for use and show your guests where they are and how they work. Better yet, wear one from the start!

Marine communication

In this age of ever-changing technology there is no shortage of ways to get your message across. But when you're out on the water, what's the best device to maintain your lifeline to shore?Today's boaters are faced with many choices for ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communications. VHFs, cell phones, Family Radio Service radios, CB radios, Single Sidebands, and satellite communications are among the myriad choices available.Having a cell phone on board allows you to keep in touch with land-based people and businesses easily. They are very convenient and should be used in tandem with a VHF. Cell phones, although very convenient on land, are less reliable on the water. Most are not water resistant, and their range is relatively small. Range is further complicated by the fact that the majority of cell antenna/stations are placed with land-based use in mind, so the distance offshore that a vessel can remain in contact is frequently much smaller than VHF radios. Your communication power with a cell phone is limited on the water because you can only contact one other phone at a time. In contrast, VHF radios broadcast to all radios in the area at the same time.

Other maintenance

Inspect all control cables especially the steering and throttle cables. Check rods, connections and outer jackets by working the wheel or throttles back and forth. Stiff operation or a crunching sound indicates a potential problem. Clean and inspect all battery terminals and connections. Loose connections can "arc" creating a fire hazard. Use a brass wire brush for badly corroded components and fill battery cells with distilled water. Routinely check your bilge for items that can foul a bilge pump. Leaves, repair debris, hair and other fibers can end up at the pump and clog its operation. Regularly inspect deck components for leaks or weakness. A loose bow pulpit or lifeline could result in a man overboard situation. Check that your ground tackle (anchor, rode and shackles) are in good order and stowed properly. The anchor's flukes can entangle with the rode and can make it difficult to deploy in an emergency. Loose shackles should be tightened and rusted ones replaced. Stoves and remote tanks should be examined for loose fittings and leaking hoses. All infrequently used canisters, spare tanks, and cleaning solvents should be stored ashore. They are corrosive if they leak and could present a fire hazard. All safety gear needs to be inspected regularly for proper functioning and expiration dates if applicable. Don't forget to inspect flares, contents of the first aid kit, fire extinguishers and life jackets.

Isolated Danger Marks and Ranges

Isolated Danger Marks - These indicate a danger which may be passed on all sides. They are usually located or moored near danger. They should not be approached closely without special caution. They may be lit and they may be lettered.Ranges - pairs of unlit or lit fixed aids that when observed in line show the pilot to be on the centerline of a channel.Ranges are a PAIR of aids to navigation. When the day boards and/or lights appear to be in line with each other, it assists the vessel operator in maintaining a safe course within the navigable channel.

Do you know your boat

It may seem fairly obvious that you need to "know your boat" before you go out. Think about it - how familiar are you really? Most people only go out on their boats when it's sunny and the weather is nice. But what happens when something breaks, or the weather turns bad? Can you handle an emergency? Have you even prepared for an emergency? Some things to think about include: Do you know how your boat handles in rough weather? Can you get around your boat - and find things easily in the dark? Do you know how to access all of the through-hull fittings and remote compartments? Can you easily make minor repairs to the engine or steering systems? Can you easily find and operate emergency equipment such as the fire extinguisher?

Interpreting what you see

It's great that you're learning the basics of lights - what is required and when they're required. But, this is only the beginning. You must also learn how to interpret the navigation lights that you see when you are underway at night, and for your safety, learn it well.In the image on the top left you see the red, green and the white lights of a power boat approaching head on at night. It is a good idea to give extra operating room in a passing situation.If you see a vessel approaching that shows a light pattern such as the middle image on the left, you will know that you are in a crossing situation, and that you must give way to the other vessel - that's why it is red.Seeing a green light over a white light indicates a fishing vessel actively trawling, such as in the image on the bottom left. You not only need to avoid the vessel, but you also need to remember that it could potentially have a very large net deployed that you will also need to avoid.There are numerous other lights and combinations of lights that you must be able to instantly recognize - the lights for a sailboat versus a motorboat, the special lights of various fishing vessels, a dredge or a vessel not under command. Study the requirements for navigation from the viewpoint of a look out as well as a boat operator.

Engines

It's not good for engines to be idle, even for three or four months over the winter. BoatUS Marine Insurance claim files contain many stories of engines that froze and failed after skippers didn't winterize their engine properly. Generally, engine blocks that freeze and crack are not covered by a boat's insurance policy.But even if the engine makes it through the winter, a half-hearted winterizing effort will come back to haunt you as the engine gets older and wears out prematurely. Unless it is winterized properly, moisture, acids and corrosion will continue unabated. Winterizing the engine is one job that is truly critical; follow the steps below and consult your manual for specifics.Keep in mind a properly tuned engine improves fuel economy and burns fuel more efficiently, causing fewer emissions.

Required sound system equipments

Just as lights play a significant role in understanding what other boats are doing, so do sounds. Virtually every boat is required to have some sound producing device aboard. There are a variety of sound making devices to choose from, but loud is good!Legal Requirements - Equipment for sound signals is based on the length of your boat as follows: Boats under 12 meters (39.4 feet) - Must carry a sound producing device such as an athletic whistle or handheld air horn. Boats over 12 meters (39.4 feet) - Must carry a sound producing device capable of producing an efficient sound signal audible for 1/2 nautical mile with a 4-6 second duration. When and How To Sound Off - Sound signals are to be used when vessels are in sight of each other and are meeting or crossing at a distance within half a mile of each other. There are also specific signals meant to be used during periods of reduced visibility and fog.Blasts - Sound signals are called blasts . There are two different blasts used for warning and steering signals. Short Blast - Lasts about one second. Prolonged Blast - Lasts from four to six seconds.

Fuel conservation tips

Keep engine well tuned. Use the correct propeller and check for damage. Be sure engine is adequate for boat. Use proper oil mix in motor. Keep hull clean to reduce friction. Drain all water before leaving dock. Distribute weight evenly and don't overload. Shut off engine when at dock or at rest. Make fewer turns so as to not increase motor load. Plane smoothly and quickly at take off then throttle back to cruising speed.

Safe Paddling Practices

Like any outdoor activity, if you use common sense and learn the basics of paddling safety, you'll be able to handle the various challenges paddling can present.Canoes and kayaks are narrow and less stable than larger boats, so it is important to keep weight low and in the center of the craft to prevent capsize or falling overboard. Cold water deaths are more common with paddlers, especially in northern regions.Here are some best practices for paddling safety: Always wear a properly fitting life jacket Don't stand up in a canoe or kayak, stay low Know your boat - how to propel, steer and stop Dress for weather and water conditions Pack a spare set of dry clothes Never overload the boat with excess weight Load the boat with weight distributed evenly Keep your shoulders within the sides of the boat Carry enough water and food for your trip length Never boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs Avoid water conditions beyond your skill level Never approach a low-head dam or obstructions in the water Don't paddle alone, always inform others of your trip Research your route, especially potential hazards Learn how to self-rescue and to assist others Avoid poor weather, rough water and the wake of other boaters

Fishing

Maintaining healthy fish stocks is vital to anglers everywhere. If you're like most anglers today, you care about protecting fish and their habitat - and about the future of sport fishing. Keep these tips in mind when you're heading out for a day of fishing: Know your local fishing regulations and what fish are in season. Have a fishing license - license fees support fisheries management. To find out how to get a license in your state visit: http://takemefishing.org/select-a-state/ Know what you want to/should keep - selective harvesting is key to keeping healthy fish populations. Keep only the fish you plan to eat and release the rest. Keep mid-size fish and release the biggest fish because they spawn more often. Keep fish species that reproduce quickly and release predators like bass and trout. Collect all your used fishing line and recycle it. Practice Catch and Release. To learn more, take our FREE Clean Boating Course

Mooring buoys and Special Marks

Mooring Buoys - These come in two different shapes; spherical and cylindrical. Both have white bodies with a solid blue horizontal band on the center of the buoy. Mooring buoys may have a white reflector, or a white light attached to them. Mooring buoys are the only buoys to which you may legally tie your boat.They are generally placed in marked anchorage areas, and you must take caution if you are traveling near these areas. Check your state boating laws for particular operating restrictions in anchorage areas.Special Marks - These marks are yellow in color and have no lateral significance (meaning they don't tell you which side of the channel or river you may be on). These marks are used to mark a special feature or area. These include area limits for anchorages, fishing grounds, dredging/spoil areas, pipelines, jetties and military exercise areas. These buoys may be lit and if they are it will be a fixed or flashing yellow light. Shape varies but usually follows the shape of the navigation buoys that it is positioned near.

Channels

Most VHF radios on the market today have in excess of twenty-five usable channels. Aside from the U.S. channels there are also International and Canadian channels, all of which come standard with many of the newer units on the market.The most important channels on your VHF radio are 13, 16, 19, 22, and 70. Channel 13 is used by commercial shipping to communicate their actions and confirm passage. Channel 16 is designated by the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) as the national distress, safety and calling frequency.All vessels must monitor this channel while underway. Calls to other vessels are normally initiated on channel 16 except for recreational vessels which may use channel 09. The FCC has designated channel 09 as a recreational calling channel in order to eliminate congestion on channel 16.However, it is important to take note that the United States Coast Guard does not monitor channel 09 for distress calls. Any vessel in distress should use channel 16 (which the Coast Guard does monitor). Channel 22 is the most common working channel for USCG in the event of an emergency.The following list of channels are those available in the United States for VHF Radio communications. Always remember to check locally for channels authorized for use in your area as well as any local restrictions.

What Can Go Wrong

Most boating accidents occur during calm, clear weather with light winds. Planning ahead means considering what could go wrong, and thinking of how you as the skipper will handle it - or how your crew will handle it if something happens to you.Prudent skippers not only have a plan that they stick to, they also make sure the crew knows the plan, and can act accordingly in case of an emergency. When your guests come aboard, it's time to share information with them about your boat and about your trip.The information you need to share in this orientation will depend on your boat and your particular trip. Establishing a checklist in advance will help make sure you don't miss anything.Finally, make sure that someone ashore knows where you are going, and when to expect you back. Here is a simple float plan, provided to help you determine what information is helpful to rescue personnel. Leave your float plan with a responsible relative or friend. STICK TO YOUR PLAN!

Weather Avoidance

Most popular weather websites include marine forecasts and many also have apps for your smartphone. Other sources of weather information include NOAA and the National Weather Service. Make a habit of checking out your local broadcast the night before you plan to go boating. Get the most current forecast just before you set out. Continually check the weather broadcast on your VHF radio while out on the water. In rough weather, or if caught in a sudden or severe storm, put your life jacket on and instruct your crew to do the same. Underway... Scan the radio and the horizonOn the water, the best way to receive timely weather information is by radio. NOAA Weather Radio provides continuous weather programming for most boating areas on the weather channels of your VHF radio.When you go out on your boat, you should know the current forecast, and have a way to receive warnings and weather advisories while underway. Making boating safety your first priority is the best way to ensure you will be back again next season.Even with today's high-tech weather forecasts and apps, there's no substitute for the time-honored practice of observing the conditions. A sudden drop in temperature and a build up of storm clouds should signal trouble is brewing. Also, scan the horizon for changes in the waves, water, and sky that signal developing weather patterns.If you're really interested in diving into the subject of weather, check out our specialized course titled, Weather for Boaters.

Weather information broadcasts

NOAA Weather Radio operates continuously on 10 different channels on your VHF radio. Your ability to tune in to any particular station depends on your position relative to NOAA's transmitter. A broad range for frequency reception is 20 to 40 miles - beyond this distance from shore, you may not be able to receive the weather broadcast at all.NOAA broadcasts current weather conditions such as temperature, humidity, wave conditions, dew point, barometric pressure, wind speed and direction, and other weather information. For more severe weather, NOAA uses the following descriptions:Small Craft Advisory: May also be issued for hazardous sea conditions or lower wind speeds that may affect small craft operations. There is no legal definition of the term "small craft".Let's take a closer look at some common weather conditions and how they might affect your time on the water.

Navigation lights

Navigation (Nav) lights are used to prevent collisions at night or in times of reduced visibility, and are an essential tool in keeping you and your vessel safe. Nav lights allow you to see other nearby vessels, and allow other vessels to see you.Nav lights also provide information about the size, activity, and direction of travel. By understanding the characteristics of Nav lights, you can determine an appropriate course of action as you approach another vessel.On any vessel, navigation lights have a specific color, (white, red, green, yellow, blue), arc of illumination, range of visibility, and location, as required by law and regulations. For the purposes of this course, we will concentrate on pleasure boats under 65 feet in length. Knowledge of navigation lights is important to a small-boat skipper for separate, but important, reasons:You are legally responsible for displaying lights of the proper color, intensity, location and visibility on your boat. You are required to display the appropriate lights at night or during times of reduced visibility. Navigation lights will allow you to identify the type and heading of another boat. Vessels are required to show the proper navigation lights from sunset to sunrise in all weather conditions, good and bad. During these times, no other lights that could be mistaken for lights specified in the Rules of the Road can be displayed, nor any lights that impair the visibility or distinctive character of navigation lights, or interfere with the keeping of a proper lookout. The Rules also state that navigation lights must be shown in conditions of reduced visibility, and may be shown at other times considered necessary.Light intensity and arc must adhere to the standards listed in the chart above.The distance of light intensity (range) is listed in miles and arc is listed in degrees. It is the responsibility of the owner/operator of a vessel that the vessel show the proper navigation lights for its size and the waters in which it is operating. It is not the responsibility of the manufacturer, importer, or selling dealer. Many boats are delivered with lights that do not meet legal requirements with respect to technical characteristics or placement on the vessel.Remember also, that the angles of visibility must be met when the boat is underway. If your boat rides at a significant bow-up angle, take that into consideration when installing and/or checking your lights.

State Age and Education Requirements

New YorkNew York has adopted a mandatory boater education program in an effort to reduce the risk of death, injury and property damage associated with the use of recreational boats, and to provide the boaters with the maximum safe use of the state's waterways.Boat Operation:Persons under the age of 10 may not operate without adult supervision.Those born after Jan. 1, 1988 must complete a safety course beginning in 2022. Those born on or after Jan. 1, 1983 must complete a safety course beginning in 2023. Those born on or after Jan. 1, 1978 must complete a safety course beginning in 2024. The requirement would extend to all motor boat operators beginning in 2025, regardless of age.PWC Operation - Education is Mandatory for All Ages:All PWC operators, regardless of age, must take an approved course and successfully pass the exam before they can operate on any waters of New York.and Boating Safety Certificates are required to be carried aboard at all times while operating a personal watercraft.An operator who is the resident of another state and is the holder of a valid boating safety certificate issued pursuant to the laws of the operator's resident state is exempt from the New York state certification requirement. However, they must have the certificate with them when operating.Young boater safety certificates previously issued by New York state satisfy the educational requirements.All PWC operators must be a minimum of 14 years old. Although it is not recommended, children under the age of 14 may operate a PWC provided there is a certified operator over the age of 18 on board.

Mufflers and noise

New YorkNew York law specifies that no vessel shall exceed a noise level of 90 decibels (dba) when subject to a stationary test or 75 dba when tested while moving. It is illegal to manufacture or sell a boat that does not meet these specifications. The use of cut-outs or the removal or alteration of the boat's muffling system such that it exceeds the noise level/s stated above is against the law.In general, do not modify your boat's exhaust if the result makes it louder!Loud boat noise not only bothers other operators and users of the waterways, it can also disrupt peace ashore because of sound's ability to travel great distances over water. Excessive noise can also prevent a boat operator from hearing other boats' sound signals and warnings and from hearing approaching law or rescue personnel.

Non-Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals

Non-pyrotechnic visual distress signaling devices must carry the manufacturer's certification that they meet Coast Guard requirements. They must be in serviceable condition and stowed to be readily accessible.This group includes: Orange distress flag. Electric distress light. No single signaling device is ideal under all conditions and for all purposes. Consideration should therefore be given to carrying several types. For example, an aerial flare can be seen over a long distance on a clear night, but for closer signaling, a hand-held flare may be more useful.Visual Distress Signals: TypesA wide variety of signaling devices, both pyrotechnic and non-pyrotechnic, can be carried to meet the requirements of the regulation: Recreational boats less than 16 feet operating in coastal waters need only carry night signaling devices when operated at night. All other boats must carry both night and day signaling devices. Any combination can be carried as long as they add up to three signals for day use and three signals for night use. Three day/ night signaling devices meet both requirements.

Picking Up A Mooring

One of the best ways to avoid the hassles of anchoring is to choose a mooring if available for use. Mooring balls are identified by their white spherical or can shape, that have a blue horizontal band and you will typically have to pay a small fee to the harbor master to use a public mooring, but you can count on it being far cheaper than paying for dockage for the night.Public moorings are professionally maintained and will use a large anchor or helix screw fixture to maintain position. Although moorings are typically more secure than anchors, moorings can and do periodically give way. For this reason, and for the obvious courtesy reasons, you should never pick up and use a mooring that does not belong to you. Here are some tips for picking up a mooring: Approach a mooring from downwind. This will give you better maneuverability as you go to secure your boat to the ball. Approach slowly, so as not to run over the mooring line or buoy. A crew member with a boat hook should grab the eye or the base of the mooring ball or the whip if it has one. Attach the mooring line to the bow and gently reverse engines to halt forward motion. Once secure, let the boat drift back - there is no need to 'back down' on a mooring ball.

Restricted visibility

Operating a boat at times of restricted visibility requires extra concentration by the skipper and the lookout. You must operate your vessel at a safe speed, giving you enough time to react to a situation and avoid a collision. Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed and navigate with extreme caution Have engines ready for immediate maneuvering - including reverse Don't rely on radar or other electronic imaging alone - use your built in senses at all times Take avoiding actions early and provide ample time for the other vessels to maneuver Avoid sharp turns if being overtaken If you are in doubt, always reduce your speed For example, when you hear another vessel's fog signal and you cannot rule out that a possible collision exists, you must reduce your speed to the minimum necessary to maintain your course. In other words, if you are unsure of the other vessel's intentions in fog, you must slow to idle speed until any potential danger has passed.

Canals and Locks

Over the last one hundred years much of America's interior has been opened to cruising boats because of canal and lock systems such as the Tenn -Tom waterway and the New York State Barge Canal. While these canal systems were formed for commercial traffic, recreational boaters now heavily use them.Canal systems can be found on virtually every type of waterway that you can boat on, from narrow rivers to wide lakes. Here are some things you need to consider on waterways with locks: Make note of the water levels on the canal system you will cruise. Water levels may vary dramatically over the course of a year. If your boat has a deep draft, you may not be able to travel on some canal systems during certain times of the year. Be careful of floating debris in lock systems. Because water level and flow is regulated, debris tends to build up, especially near the locks. Debris in the locks may get caught between your vessel and the lock wall, causing damage to your boat. Watch the currents as you head up river near a dam. Currents can be very strong, especially when the lock or dam gates are open. As you approach a lock, there are special rules of the road you need to follow to insure a safe and quick lock transit. When you near a lock, hail the lock-master or tender on VHF channel 16/14/13 (Your local chart will have the proper channel marked) for instructions on when you can enter. The lock-master will give you information on where to tie up, especially if you will be locking with other vessels. If you do not have a VHF, you may use three long blasts with your horn, or use small boat signal cord which many locks have on the outer approach wall of the lock. When it is time to enter the lock, you will either hear horn blasts, or see a flashing green light.

manuevering

Overtaking, meeting head-on, and crossing are the three most common collision risk situations. The stand-on vessel must maintain course and speed. The give-way vessel must take action to avoid the stand-on vessel. If it becomes apparent that the give-way vessel is not going to take action, the stand-on vessel must take action to avoid a collision.The Crossing Situation - Both International and Inland Rules state that when two power-driven vessels are crossing, the vessel which has the other on her starboard side is the give-way vessel and must keep out of the way. The dark gray boat in the image below is on the starboard side of the white boat, therefore it is the stand-on vessel.It is the duty of the give-way vessel to avoid a collision. Typically, this means you must alter speed or direction to cross behind the other vessel (the stand-on vessel).Remember that boats have a red light on the port side of the bow and green on the starboard side. As a powerboat, if you see a red light crossing right-to-left in front of you, you need to change your course because you are the give-way vessel. If you see a green light crossing from left-to-right, you must first determine the type of boat it is to identify the stand-on vessel.The Meeting Situation - At times there may be some doubt whether the situation is a crossing or a head-on meeting. In case of doubt, you should assume that it is a meeting situation, in which neither vessel is the stand-on vessel and each must give way, turning to starboard.Ideally, each vessel in a meeting situation should alter course to starboard so that each will pass on the port side of the other. At night, you will recognize a head-on meeting situation if you see both red and green side lights at the same time.

Sewage

Portable Toilet: A commonly used and cost effective alternative is the portable toilet. This system is fully self-contained. The upper section of the unit holds water used for flushing the bowl. Treated water, plus the waste, is flushed into the bottom each time the unit is used. The toilet can be used for several days before pumpout is needed. Though these are not considered to be MSD's (Marine Sanitation Device) as they are not permanently installed, they are legal to use on all waters. If your boat has an installed toilet by law you must have a Marine Sanitation Device (MSD). Standards have been set by the Environmental Protection Agency, and regulations have been issued by the Coast Guard, covering the certification and use of Marine Sanitation Devices. Sanitation systems consist of an installed head (toilet), a waste-treating device (MSD), and/or a holding tank. To be clear, it is ILLEGAL to discharge UNTREATED sewage on inland waters and within 3 miles of shore. To legally dispose of sewage boaters must either have an onboard treatment device (Type I or Type II MSD) or a holding tank (Type III MSD) to hold the waste and have it pumped out ashore. All installed MSDs must be US Coast Guard certified and have a "Y" valve in proper positioning! Type I and II MSDs must have a "Y" valve secured to allow for waste to enter a proper on board holding tank for future drainage at a pump-out station. Type III MSDs will typically have a built in holding tank with no external plumbing and cannot be pumped overboard. Type III MSDs must be pumped ashore at a proper facility.

Sound signals in reduced visibility

Power Driven Vessels: Making way through water: one prolonged blast sounded at two-minute intervals. Underway but stopped and not moving through the water: Two prolonged blasts in succession with two second intervals between blasts sounded at two-minute intervals. Sailboats or vessels not under command, restricted in ability to maneuver, towing or pushing another vessel, or engaged in fishing with nets or trawling: One prolonged blast followed by two short blasts sounded at two-minute intervals.Vessels at anchor: Rapidly ringing bell for five seconds at intervals of not more than one minute. Boats less than 12 meters (less than 40 feet) must make an efficient sound with an interval of no more than two minutes. If you see a vessel approaching, you may also sound the following signal: one short, one prolonged, and one short blast in quick succession.These are not the only rules concerning sound signals in restricted visibility; there are additional rules that may be found in the Rules of the Road or in Chapman's Piloting.

Proper fueling procedures

Proper fueling procedures are very important in preventing onboard fires and explosions. Always check the bilges and all closed compartments for gasoline vapors. The sniff test is the most effective method for detecting fuel leaks. Leaking fuel lines pose a great danger. Fix or replace them immediately.Fueling tips and procedures: Secure boat to the dock and switch off engine(s). Extinguish all open flames, including cigarettes. Do not use electrical switches. Make sure that all ports, hatches, and doors are closed and that passengers are ashore. Determine quantity of fuel required and make sure it is the proper type of fuel. Hold hose nozzle firmly against fill pipe opening. Don't forget to use a fuel bib or absorbent pad while filling to catch any fuel drips. Do not overfill and if there is a spill, wipe it up. Open ports, hatches, and doors to ventilate. Turn blower on for four minutes minimum. Do the sniff test. For portable tanks do the following: Tanks six gallons and smaller should be removed from the boat and filled on the dock or shore. If required, add appropriate amount of oil for 2-cycle outboards to fuel tank. Make sure hose nozzle is in contact with rim of tank. After filling, secure tank to the boat so it will not slide around while underway.

Keep our waterways clean

Proper fueling techniques keep our water clean and safe, and help marine life thrive in a healthier environment. You are legally required to report fuel spills, and to take prompt action to clean up any spills that may occur.Under federal law (the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 and the Clean Water Act) it is illegal to discharge any petroleum product into the water. By law, any oil or fuel spill that leaves a sheen on the water must be reported to the U.S. Coast Guard at 1-800-424-8802.You are responsible for any environmental damage caused by your fuel spill. So, preventing spills will be beneficial for you and the boating environment!It is also against the law to use detergent or other chemicals on a spill to disperse the oil or sheen. These products can cause the petroleum to sink into the water, causing more harm to marine life and bottom sediments.If you have spilled a petroleum product, immediately stop the source of the leak, use oil absorbent pads or booms, notify your marina and call the U.S. Coast Guard. Your marina may also know a state agency that needs to be contacted. If the spill is of any substantial size, we also recommend you call your insurance company.

Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals

Pyrotechnic visual distress signaling devices must be Coast Guard approved, in serviceable condition and stowed in a readily accessible location. They are marked with an expiration date. Launchers produced before Jan. 1, 1981, intended for use with approved signals are not required to be Coast Guard Approved.USCG Approved Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals and Associated Devices include: Pyrotechnic red flares, hand held or aerial. Pyrotechnic orange smoke, hand held or floating. Launchers for aerial red meteors or parachute flares. The purpose of this regulation is to assure that boaters have a way of attracting attention and securing assistance when needed. Properly used visual distress signals will also help reduce the time it takes during a search and rescue operation.The video here provides a brief overview of the Foundation's testing on visual distress signals.

Hazardous waste

Read the labels! Strong warning statements on labels are a good indicator that the product can be harmful to your health as well as the environment. These products should be handled carefully and disposed of properly. Before buying a new product with a strong warning label ask yourself if you really need a product that strong. Consider alternative products that may get the job done just as well with less toxicity. Buy the smallest quantity you need or share with a friend. The smaller the bottle, the smaller the potential spill. Follow the product's directions for use and store where the product can't fall over and spill! When using hazardous products, work on land and away from the water's edge. Find your local Household Hazardous Waste collection days where you can safely dispose of these products. Check online or with your local public works department.

Preventative Maintenance

Repairing a boat that has been underwater, even briefly, can cost about 40% of its value. Surprisingly, 4 out of 5 boats that sink are at the dock unattended and not underway. It's important to inspect your boat often, especially before and after you launch and after a heavy rainfall. Be sure to: Inspect all underwater fittings inside and out, like stuffing boxes, outdrive and shift bellows, rudder posts, exhaust outlets and the drain plugs. Check inside for failing hoses or hose clamps, sea strainers, air conditioning fittings, gate valves, transducer thru-hull, mounting bolts, and mufflers. Inspect above water outlets like cockpit scupper drains. Rain and snow account for a large percentage of sinkings especially if leaves have built up in your boat clogging these drains. Tie your boat up properly to prevent getting caught under a dock or banging against a piling. Use adequate fenders and take into consideration tidal changes. Check your boat's freshwater system. Water may enter from a broken fitting at water tanks. Always monitor your boat while refilling water tanks. Don't depend on the bilge pump to keep water out of your boat. A bilge pump can actually hide a problem until the pump clogs or the battery goes dead. Water, not bilge pumps, sinks boats. Find out where the water is coming from, and fix it. Boats underway can strike floating debris or an underwater hazard. Careless skippers might forget to install drain plugs or operate recklessly. Boats with low transoms, overloaded boats and those who have anchored carelessly can also lead to sinking.Once a boat starts to sink, it will gain momentum. A two-inch hole one foot below the waterline, allows 78 gallons of water into the boat per minute. When that hole is three feet below the waterline, the flow increases to 136 gallons per minute. As the boat sinks, other thru-hulls that had been above the waterline will now be underwater. If any of these fittings are cracked or missing, the flow of water into the boat will accelerate further.

Round Bottom Hull

Round bottom boats almost glide through the water. Because round bottom boats are very efficient at moving through water, most cruising sail and power boats have rounded hulls. Typically, round bottom boats move at slow speeds. Most boats with this hull type will have a keel, chines, or stabilizers, as the round form will often roll with the waves, and tends to make everyone sea sick during rough weather.

Power boat lights

Running Anchor Search Cabin Cockpit Fishing

Sailboat lights

Running Search anchor cabin streaming spreader

Scope

Scope = Length of the anchor line/ height of the deck cleat to the sea bed.Before leaving the dock, you will need to determine how much anchor line, or "rode", you will need. It is recommended that you use a scope of 7:1, meaning that for every foot of water depth, you should use 7 feet of rode.For example, to anchor in 10 feet of water, you would pay out 70 feet of line.Measure the scope as the ratio of the length of the anchor rode to the height of the bow above the bottom. If you're using a lightweight anchor on a small boat in good weather conditions, a shorter scope of 5:1 is sufficient and safe. A prudent boater always has extra line and chain on hand, just in case!Boats that operate generally in shallow waters, as on the East Coast of the United States, may get by with shorter rode lengths. As the wind picks up, deploying additional line will help maintain position, as will tossing out an extra anchor.

Gray water

Sewage is called black water. Gray water is waste water that comes from sinks, showers, and boat washing. It can contain detergents, soap, and food wastes. In the United States, there are no federal requirements for the containment of gray water. However, in Canada, and in some inland lakes, there may be additional restrictions. Please check your local cruising guide or with your local state boating agency for more details. Here are some tips to help reduce your gray water. Use shoreside facilities for dishes and laundry and any activities that require a large amount of fresh water. For day trips, rinse dishes with fresh water and bring home to clean. Look for non-toxic, phosphate-free and biodegradable soaps and use sparingly. Take shorter on-board showers.

Typical light arrangements

Sidelights - Colored lights - red on port and green on starboard - showing an unbroken arc of the horizon of 112.5 degrees, from dead ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on each side.Combination lights - Sidelights may be combined in a single fixture carried at the centerline of the vessel.Stern light - A white light showing over an unbroken arc of the horizon of 135 degrees, centered on dead astern.

Offshore communication

Single Sidebands (SSB) operate in the medium frequency (MF) and/or high-frequency (HF) bands for reliable direct-voice communications over distances exceeding 25 miles (depending on antenna heights). They are commonly available with an output power from 50-150 watts, more than double the output power of VHF radios. An SSB radio's range is generally much greater than other communication options. Unlike VHF radios, they require a large ground plane in order to radiate its signal which, except on metal hulls, needs to be installed in the form of a large copper mesh panel (sometimes built onto the fiberglass hull). In layman's terms, SSB uses the water your boat is floating on to transmit its signal over long distances. With SSB, antenna selection and installation is also more complicated. They generally require a much longer antenna than VHFs, and different antenna tuning for different bands. Satellite Communications offer a worldwide communication system which can be accessed using a small hand-held telephone. Satellite networks offer both voice and data communications. Satellite phones allow you to call virtually any phone in the world from a relatively compact handset as long as you have a direct line of sight to the satellite (so they can't connect if you're indoors). Satellite data networks can be enabled through a satellite phone to provide access to email and the Internet. However, bandwidth limits often confine this use to text-based email and websites since images will be slow to load. There are also specialized devices designed to track your location via satellite and display on a website that you can share with friends and family. Many of these devices also provide basic text messaging communication.

Snorkeling and SCUBA

Snorkeling is great fun, but it's easy to get so engaged in looking below the surface that you forget to look above! Here are some snorkeling tips: Practice snorkeling in a pool first. Breathing through a tube may seem easy, but for some people it takes some practice. Snorkeling can be very distracting, so snorkelers must make an effort to look up every few moments to gauge their position and make sure they haven't strayed too far from the boat or into a channel. In popular snorkeling spots, there can be a lot of boats coming and going. Wear bright colors or a bright life jacket or snorkeling vest to make yourself more visible. Scuba Diving is also a popular sport which requires significant skill and attention to safety. Two of the most essential pieces of equipment for divers, aside from their diving gear, are two identifying flags: the blue and white Alfa flag and red and white diver down flag.

Who will be aboard

So who is going with you? A trip with five adults would be a great deal different from one with two adults and three preschoolers. Preparing for your guests is not only the courteous thing to do, but the safe thing to do. And don't forget, as the captain you have a legal responsibility to provide for the safety and well being of those you bring aboard. Things to think about include: Do you have a pre-departure or safety checklist and have you discussed it with guests prior to departure? Did you inform your guests as to where life jackets, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, flares, and other safety gear are stowed? Do your guests have boating experience? Can your guests take over the boat or operate equipment in an emergency? Do you have food and water for your guests? Do any of your guests have medical conditions or get sea sick? Do you know if your guests can swim? Will you or your guests be drinking alcohol? Are there hazards that children should stay away from? Have you explained proper procedures for disposing of trash?

Accidents Don't Just Happen

Statistics show that over 80% of the paddlers who died in the United States were not wearing a life jacket. However, 98% of paddlers report that they own one. When examining all known accident cases, including capsizes/falls overboard, it was reported that 90% of the victims go in the water unexpectedly and had no time to grab a life jacket. Simply put, wearing life jackets save lives.Hazardous water or weather conditions were cited as the primary cause in more than 40% of paddlesport accidents, pointing to the importance of consulting weather information and scouting the area first. Surprisingly, operator inexperience accounts for only one in four paddling fatalities, suggesting that the more experienced paddler often becomes complacent with safety procedures or takes unnecessary risks.

Docking in Wind

Suppose there has been a 180 degree wind shift while you fueled up and there's a breeze blowing directly onto the dock. This makes departing tough. You can't go ahead or astern very far because of the boat behind you and the one ahead of you.How are you going to get out of this fix? Try using a "spring" line. Spring lines are a much-misunderstood term that simply means lines that are affixed to the boat and dock against which the boat can "work" when taut, thus positioning the boat in the right direction in the end.If circumstances favor pulling your boat out and moving ahead, run a long spring linefrom a cleat on your stern port rail running forward to a piling or cleat on the fuel dock. Let go your bow and stern lines. Now, with your wheel hard to port, put the engine in reverse and back the boat down leaving the spring line attached. Like magic, your bow will swing out to starboard, clearing the boat ahead (you may need additional throttle if you're battling wind and current). You can now release the spring line and proceed out into the harbor.When, on the other hand, circumstances favor your backing out of your spot, the spring line should be run from your bow to a piling or cleat well aft of your position.In this case, let go the dock lines, turn the wheel hard to starboard (the side against the dock), put the idling engine into forward gear with the spring line still attached, and watch as your stern swings miraculously out of harm's way. When it clears the boat behind you, momentarily shift into neutral, release the spring line, shift into reverse, and back away smartly.

Aquatic Nuisance Species

Taking steps to prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species (ANS) is important. If you don't clean your vessel and trailer before you leave the area, you may unintentionally introduce aquatic nuisance species into other waters. You will learn more about the threats and problems of ANS in another section, but this simple clean, drain and dry routine can help prevent the spread.Clean: Remove any visible plant, plant fragments and mud. Check the boat itself as well as the anchor and engine intakes. Also check the trailer carefully, especially around the wheel and axle areas. Clean any live well and bait buckets and dispose of in the trash rather than back into the water.Drain: If there are places aboard your boat that holds water empty them now. Remove drain plugs. Be sure to empty the bilge, ballast tanks and transom wells. Finally, follow factory guidelines for eliminating water from engines. Empty water out of canoes and kayaks as well as from shoes and hip-waders.Dry: Allow everything to dry completely before launching into another body of water, ideally for a few days. This will dry up any water that may contain microscopic organisms. In certain parts of the country, you may find a decontamination station at the ramp that has a high-pressure hot water hose to rinse your boat in order to reduce the potential spread of non-native species.

Masthead light

The following illustrations display typical light arrangements on motor vessels and for sailboats under power. For legal purposes, sailing vessels with their motors on are considered to be motor vessels.Masthead light - A white light placed over the fore-and-aft centerline of the vessel, showing an unbroken light over an arc of 225 degrees, from dead ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft (behind) the beam on both sides of the vessel. On boats less than 12 meters (39.4 feet) in length, the masthead light may be off the fore-and-aft centerline, but must be as close to it as possible. The term "masthead light" is something of a misnomer. More often than not, this light is not at the top of the mast. On motorboats, it is often on a short staff at the top of the cabin. On sailboats, it is usually part way up the mast, and called the "steaming light." Another light, the anchor light, is usually at the masthead.The diagrams show typical lighting patterns that you will see on power vessels under 12 meters. All of the following light patterns are legal, and there is no preferred pattern.Sailboats under sail alone.In addition to displaying red and green side lights and a white stern light, sailboats under 20 meters (65.6 feet) in length and UNDER SAIL ONLY have the option to instead displaying a combined tri-color masthead light. Sailing vessel of any size in addition to the red and green side light and white light configuration, may also display red over green all-around lights at or near the top of the mast. As soon as the engine goes on, even if your sails are up, you may only display red and green sidelights and a white stern light along with a forward facing white steaming light signifying operation as a powerboat.

Wildlife

The minimum approach distances are: Sea turtles: 50 yards (150 feet) Dolphins, porpoises, & seals: 50 yards (150 feet) North Atlantic right whales: 500 yards (1500 feet) Other large whales: No intentional approach within 100 ft. Things to consider:To avoid trapping marine mammals between your boat and the shore, keep a parallel course and avoid approaching head on or from behind. Avoid excessive speed or sudden changes in speed or direction. When viewing, if they're changing their behavior because of you, you're too close. Do not herd or chase them. Limit your viewing time to 30 minutes.

Visual distress signals regulations

The requirement to carry visual distress signals applies to all boats when operated on coastal waters, the Great Lakes, territorial seas and waters directly connected to the Great Lakes and the territorial seas. This is up to a point where the waters are less than two miles wide, and boats owned in the United States when operating on the high seas to be equipped with visual distress signals, pyrotechnic, non-pyrotechnic or a combination of both.The only exceptions on these waters are during daytime (sunrise to sunset) for: Recreational boats less than 16 feet in length. Boats participating in organized events such as races, regattas or marine parades. Open sailboats not equipped with propulsion machinery and less than 26 feet in length. Manually propelled boats. Boats only need to carry night signals when used on these waters at night. Some states do not require recreational boaters to carry Visual Distress Signals on state-controlled waters.If pyrotechnic devices are selected, a minimum of three must be carried. Pyrotechnic devices come with an expiration date, which is 42 months from the date of manufacture and are type approved for day, night or day/night use . To meet carriage requirements, you must have at least three un-expired flares aboard. You may carry expired flares as back up, but they will not count towards the legal requirement. Some possible signal combinations that will meet the requirements are: Three red hand-held flares (day and night). One electric distress light (night only). One red hand-held flare and two parachute flares (day and night). One hand-held orange smoke signal, two floating orange smoke signals (day) and one electric distress light (night only).

Reporting Timelines

The requirements for reporting a boating accident will vary from state to state. Federal requirements for reporting a boating accident are as follows: If a person dies, disappears from the boat, or there are injuries requiring medical treatment beyond first aid, a formal report must be filed within 48 hours of the accident. A formal report must be made within 10 days for accidents involving property damage of $2,000 or more, or complete loss of a vessel. Note: State requirements for reporting boating accidents may be more stringent than federal (i.e. some states require ALL boating accidents to be reported immediately).View a blank Boating Accident Report from the US Coast Guard.

How They Work - Leaving

The same signals are used to depart the lock, except that the horn signals are short blasts instead of long blasts.

What to do if you see a signal

The unwritten law of the sea requires that a mariner come to the aid of a mariner in distress. Therefore, should you see a distress signal, immediate action should be taken. Notify the nearest Coast Guard station or State authority by radio. Channel 9 on CB and Channel 16 on VHF marine radio (156.8 MHz) are recognized distress channels. If you can assist the stricken vessel without endangering yourself, you should. The Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971 contains a "Good Samaritan" clause stating: "Any person... who gratuitously and in good faith renders assistance at the scene of a vessel collision, accident, or other casualty without objection of any person assisted, shall not be held liable for any act or omission in providing or arranging salvage, towage, medical treatment, or other assistance where the assisting person acts as an ordinary, reasonably prudent man or woman would have acted under the same or similar circumstances."

Maneuvering signals

There are different combinations for various movements on the water that may use both short and prolonged blasts. Inland Rules for sound signals are occasionally different from International Rules. The following information reflects Inland Rules. If you travel overseas, you must learn the International Rules. Under Inland Rules, power-driven vessels must use the following sound signals in meeting, crossing or passing situations: ONE SHORT BLAST means: "I intend to leave you on MY port side". When you pass near another boat, you will maneuver by leaving them on your left side as you pass. If you are behind another boat, going the same direction and about to overtake it, one short blast means: "I intend to pass you on YOUR starboard side, MY port side". TWO SHORT BLASTS means: "I intend to leave you on MY starboard side". When you pass near another boat, you will maneuver by leaving them on your right side as you pass. If you are behind another boat, going the same direction and about to overtake it, two short blasts means: "I intend to pass you on YOUR port side, MY starboard side." Some additional sound signals for maneuvers include: THREE SHORT BLASTS - Means that you are backing up, or using "astern propulsion". ONE PROLONGED BLAST - Signals that you intend to leave your dock. If you need to back out of your docking area, you would sound one long blast, and then three short blasts. Also used for a vessel nearing a bend in a channel. FIVE SHORT BLASTS - This is the DANGER signal. Remember, that when you approach another vessel and hear either one or two short blasts, and you both understand their signal and can safely let them do it, then you are required to respond with the same signal in response. However, if you don't understand their intentions, or feel that their proposed maneuver is dangerous to either vessel, then you are required to sound the DANGER signal. NOTE: Another option is to use your VHF radio to reach agreement with another vessel in a meeting or crossing situation. The Rules state that vessels that reach agreement over VHF radio do not need to make the required sound signals.

Anchor Types

There are several types of anchors and you should choose a style based on the bottom characteristics in the areas you will anchor most often. Then, choose a size based on the size and weight of your boat.Learn more about each type of anchor and its uses by clicking each of them from the image.

Locks - What to Expect

There is a strictly enforced order in which vessels may enter a lock. As a pleasure craft, you will always have the lowest priority for entering a lock.Military craft have first priority, followed by commercial passenger vessels, commercial tows, commercial fishing vessels, and finally pleasure craft. Even if you are the first to arrive, vessels with higher priority will be allowed into the lock before you.Normally everyone on board except the captain (if the captain is not also a line handler) will be required to wear a life jacket. Have fenders on the side of the boat next to the wall, both sides if you are tied to a raft of boats. Automobile tires are not allowed in locks, so don't use them for fenders.Have your crew equipped with poles to fend the boat off the walls or other boats. Turbulence, other boats, and the wind can move your boat around quite a bit inside the lock. Have strong lines to tie up your boat. Many modern locks have floating bollards to tie your vessel to, but most older locks do not. Make sure your lines are long enough to reach the top of the lock.Never use a hitch to tie up with that you cannot readily remove from a bollard as you might need to remove your lines very quickly. Better yet, have a line handler take in or pay out slack as necessary. When it is time to leave the lock, you will do so in the order that you entered the lock.

Swimming And Diving Near Boats

There's nothing like swimming from the back of your boat on a hot summer day. But swimming from your boat isn't nearly as predictable as swimming in your pool. There may be rocks lurking just below the surface, currents that can carry a swimmer away, or boats that come too close for comfort. To make sure you and your crew stay safe while swimming from your boat, there are a few things you need to know: Never, ever swim in a marked channel, even if there are no boats around. Swimming in marinas should be avoided. Marinas are made for boats to come and go; they are no place for swimmers. In addition to the risk being run over, boats that are plugged into AC shore power can sometimes leak electricity into the water, either from the boat or from the marina's electrical systems, putting swimmers at considerable risk. Illegal dumping of holding tanks also occurs in some marinas which can be a health hazard. Don't swim in areas where there are strong currents or undertow. Enter the water gradually, never dive. Even if you're going back to a familiar spot, droughts and currents can change bottom characteristics over time. Never leave the boat's engine running while swimmers are in the water. Propellers can be deadly, so can carbon monoxide (CO) in exhaust fumes caused by a boats engine or generator. When swimming from a boat, always wear a life jacket or have one readily accessible. Running a line off the back of your boat with a flotation ring or throwable float can also be useful. Make sure if you get off the boat, there's an easy way to get back on.

H.E.L.P.

This position, the Heat Escape Lessening Posture, or H.E.L.P. Position, aims to protect some of the areas of your body most prone to heat loss - the head, neck, sides of the chest cavity and the groin area. If you are wearing a life jacket this position can be very effective. To reach this position you should bring your knees up as close as possible to your chest and grasp your hands together over your chest. If this is too difficult, or too unstable, cross your calves, bend your knees and pull your legs close to your body. Cross your arms and tuck your hands flat under your armpits.Floating In WadersIf you find yourself floating in the water with waders still on, try to use them to your advantage. Allow some air inside them so they float on the surface, then hold your hands together behind your knees or your neck and float until help arrives. This position is most effective if you are wearing a life jacket, otherwise you'll have to use your arms to tread water, or float on your back with your head in the water, which will make you lose heat more quickly.HuddleWhen several people are stranded in the water, they should form a huddle. Facing inward, they should link their arms over each other's shoulders or under each other's arms to get as close as possible, to share as much heat as possible. If there are children or seniors along, they should go in the center of the huddle so they can receive warmth front and back. Two or more people huddled together can greatly increase survival time and make you more visible to potential rescuers.These survival positions are most effective when the person in the water is wearing a life jacket. If the person is not wearing a PFD and is forced to swim, they should do so as slowly as possible. Anything that can be used for flotation - logs, parts of the boat, gas cans, whatever - should be utilized for flotation. The swimmer can also try breathing into their clothing to put air - and hopefully some flotation - into the torso area.

Thunderstorms and lightning

Thunderstorms are created when warm, moist air rises, cools and condenses. The transition from a small cloud into a turbulent, electrified storm front can occur in as little as 30 minutes. In summer, afternoon thunderstorms are likely to occur over water when the humidity and temperature ashore are high. Thunderstorms often approach from the west, sometimes at speeds in excess of 25 knots.If you are about to be caught in a Thunderstorm Make sure everyone aboard is wearing an approved life jacket. Secure all loose gear, hatches or ports. Determine your location and the best course back to shelter. Keep a sharp lookout for other boats and obstructions. Once the Storm Hits Try to take the first (and heaviest) gusts of wind on the bow, not abeam. Heading into the wind is the most seaworthy position for most small boats. Reduce speed. Approach waves at a slight angle, to keep the propeller underwater, reduce pounding, and provide a safer and more comfortable ride. Stay low. Don't make yourself the tallest target to avoid lightning. Keep away from metal objects that aren't grounded to the boat's protection system.

Required Equipment

To legally operate your vessel, both the Coast Guard and the states require you to carry certain equipment aboard your boat. These requirements are generally based upon the length of your boat, but a recent trend has been to have requirements based upon the time of year that you operate your vessel, or how far from shore you might operate your vessel. For example, boats 16 feet in length and over must have at least: One life jacket (in good condition) for each person on board plus a throwable cushion or ring is required. You must have the life jacket out of the plastic and in a READILY accessible location. The throwable should be close by the steering station. Three current-dated, hand-held, approved flares are minimum equipment to serve for day and night distress signals, both inshore and offshore. More information on Visual Distress Signals later in this lesson. The correct number of approved fire extinguishers, readily available for use is based on the size of your vessel. More information on fire extinguishers in the Emergency Preparation lesson. A sound-making device. More on sound signals later in this lesson. Working running lights. More on running lights later in this lesson.

Using your VHF

To use your VHF, turn it on and pick a channel, set the squelch to the point where you don't hear any white noise, and begin talking. Things to remember when you are on the radio: Monitor channel 16 when you are not talking. If your radio is on while underway, you must be monitoring channel 16. Don't tie up channel 16 or channel 9. If you are talking with someone, switch to a working channel like 72 so you are not keeping others from using channel 16 or 9 for emergency situations. In some instances, the Coast Guard may even order you to switch channels if you are abusing these channels. A VHF radio is not a telephone. When you use your VHF, everyone tuned to that station in the area can hear you! Watch your language, and try to keep your conversations short and to the point so that others may use the channel. For a comprehensive course on choosing and using a VHF radio, check out All About Marine Radio - one of the specialized courses available at www.boatus.org/courses

Brakes and Bunk vs Rollers

Trailer BrakesIn many states, trailers with a GVWR of 1,500 pounds or more are required by law to have brakes. Heavier trailers may be required to have brakes on each axle. Each state is slightly different on what they require but the point is you want your vehicle and the heavy load you are towing to stop when you need to. Some automobile manufacturers suggest trailer brakes be used with loads even lighter than what the law requires so check also with your manual that came with the vehicle you intend to tow with.There are two basic types of brakes on trailers: surge brakes and electrically-activated brakes. Most trailers have surge brakes, which are activated after the automobile's brakes are applied and the trailer surges forward into a mechanism on the trailer that applies the brakes. Electric brakes, which are connected to the automobile's brakes, are another option but you generally don't see them on boat trailers that are subject to underwater submersion. Both types are vulnerable to corrosion as a result of dunking and should be rinsed after use.Bunk Trailers vs RollersBunk trailers typically use long boards covered in all weather carpet to protect and support the hull. They are fairly easy to adjust to conform to the bottom of your boat. They are generally easier to use when the launch ramp has a moderate to steep grade. If the ramp has a shallow entry, it is sometimes harder to launch and retrieve since the carpet causes extra friction. On the other hand, boat trailers with rollers allow the boat to easily roll on and off at any grade. Some new boaters find them a bit of a challenge to use at first. A boater must approach the ramp lined up perfectly but once aligned the rollers make for easy work.You may also find that some trailers use a combination of padded bunks to support the back half of the boat where it is heavier and use rollers at the keel and the bow to help it guide and slide for maximum advantage.

Transport and Trailering

Trailer boating opens up new opportunities for anyone who has a properly maintained trailer, a tow vehicle of sufficient size and some general knowledge of the mechanics and nuances of trailering. Becoming proficient at trailering takes a lot of patience and just as much practice. In this section we'll cover the basics of selecting a trailer, the things to inspect periodically on your trailer, and how to safely launch and load.Selecting A Trailer: Consider yourself lucky if your boat came with a properly sized trailer fitted to your boat because it can be somewhat of a challenge and crucial to get just the right fit. If your boat didn't come with a trailer and you are looking to purchase one start by contacting the manufacturer of your boat to see what they recommend. They may even have a diagram for where bunks or rollers are to be fitted in order to support the hull of the boat in critical locations.

Types of Life jackets

Type 1: There are five basic types of life jackets classified as Types I - V. We'll take a closer look at what they are and some of their defining characteristics now.Inherently buoyant recommended uses and features: When cruising, racing and fishing offshore, or when boating alone, or in stormy conditions. Minimum buoyancy: 22 lbs. (11 lbs. for child size) Best for open, rough or remote water where rescue may be slow to arrive. Will turn MOST unconscious wearers face-up in water. Offers the best protection, but is somewhat bulky and uncomfortable. Additional foam and fabric does the best job of retaining body heat and keeps your head higher above water. Currently, there aren't any Coast Guard approved Type I inflatable life jackets available to the general public. Type 2:Inherently buoyant recommended uses and features: Inland day cruising, fishing and sailing. Good for boating in light craft. Minimum buoyancy: 15.5 lbs. Good for protected, inland water near shore, where chances of immediate rescue is good. Not suitable for extended survival in rough water. Will turn SOME unconscious wearers face-up in water. Poor performer in rough water, often requires you to tread water in order to keep your head above water. More comfortable but less buoyant than Type I. Provides far less flotation than a Type I. Inflatable recommended uses and features: Minimum buoyancy: 34 lbs. Recommended uses: Inland and nearshore cruising. Not guaranteed to turn unconscious wearer face-up. Inflatable life jackets are not meant for children under the age of 16. Type 3: Inherently buoyant features and recommended uses: Supervised activities, such as sailing regattas, dinghy races, water skiing, fishing, canoeing, kayaking and during personal watercraft operation. Minimum buoyancy: 15.5 lbs. Good for protected, inland water near shore, where chance of immediate rescue is good. Not suitable for extended survival in rough water. Not designed to turn unconscious people face up in water. More comfortable to wear than a Type I or a Type II, but provides far less flotation than a Type I. Inflatable features and recommended uses: Minimum buoyancy: 22.5 lbs. Recommended uses: boating inshore and nearshore and supervised activities such as sailing regattas, dinghy races, canoeing. Not guaranteed to turn unconscious wearer face-up. Inflatable life jackets are not meant for children under the age of 16. Type 4:Recommended uses: A Type IV is designed to be thrown to an overboard victim or to supplement the buoyancy of a person overboard. It is not to be worn. Minimum buoyancy: 16.5 lbs. for ring buoy or 18 lbs. for boat cushion. A Type IV throwable device can be a square style, or a ring buoy or horseshoe buoy mounted on deck. A Type IV is not for unconscious persons, non-swimmers or children. Although these devices are often referred to as seat cushions, you should never use it as such. This degrades the foam and reduces the amount of flotation that is provided. Type IV devices must be IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE for use. You must have one at arm's length to throw over the side in an emergency. Having one in a locker under the driver's seat isn't considered "immediately available."

United States Coast Guard Minimum Equipment Requirements

U.S. Coast Guard Minimum Requirements for fire extinguishers vary with the size of the boat and the type of propulsion: All Fire Extinguishers must be Coast Guard Approved, maintained in operable condition, and available for immediate use. Additionally, fire extinguishers must not be older than 12 years according the the date of manufacture indicated on the extinguisher. Boats less than 26 feet in length: Requires at least one hand-portable extinguisher labeled 5:B or 10:B (formerly known as B-I) if no fixed fire extinguishing system is installed. If a boat, such as a basic jonboat, has no enclosed compartments to permit the entrapment of flammable gases and no permanently installed fuel tanks, then no fire extinguisher is required. Boats 26 - 40 feet: Requires at least two hand-portable extinguishers labeled 5:B or 10:B (formerly known as B-I), OR at least one extinguisher labeled 20:B (formerly known as B-II). When an approved fire extinguisher system is installed, one less 5:B or 10:B extinguisher is required. Boats 40 - 65: At least three hand-portable extinguishers labeled 5:B or 10:B (formerly known as B-I), OR at least one extinguisher labeled 20:B (formerly known as B-II). When an approved fire extinguisher system is installed, one less 5:B or 10:B extinguisher is required. The BoatUS Foundation's tests of fire extinguishers confirmed that these requirements are the absolute minimum and barely adequate. As this video demonstrates, a tri-class (ABC) extinguisher is much better than the less expensive BC unit.You might not think you need to worry too much about fire on a boat since you are surrounded by water. But fire is a very real threat, not only to your boat, but to you and your passengers. Fiberglass not only burns very quickly but also produces toxic smoke. Knowing what to expect, and what to do are critical to effectively fight a fire. Each year you need to check that your fire extinguishers are in proper working order, and that everyone who boards the boat knows where they are.

Vegetation

Underwater plants and grasses are vital to waterway health: they provide oxygen, food, and shelter. They are an essential nursery habitat for many species of fish and add oxygen to the surrounding water. Be careful not to motor through or anchor in grass beds as heavy grasses can foul your prop and anchoring in these areas can destroy these sensitive areas.To avoid damaging underwater grasses - Know your water colors. Use these helpful reminders to aid you in avoiding water that is too shallow: Brown, brown, run aground : These shallows could contain land formations or aquatic grass beds. While, white, run aground you might : Sand bars, which appear white, can be shallower than they look. Navigate with caution. Green, green, nice and clean : These areas are usually free of shallows, but consult current marine charts to be sure. Blue, blue, cruise on through : These deep-water areas are free of reefs or grass beds, but remember that reefs and rocks can rise abruptly, so pay attention. While these sayings are helpful, in some areas the color of the water may not be very indicative of what's down below so always check a marine chart as well.

Deep V

V-hulls are designed to operate at high speeds and to cut through rough water, which provides a smoother ride than flat-bottom or round bottom boats but, are not as efficient and need larger engines to move at similar speeds. The vast majority of the boats sold today have a variation of the V-hull.

EPIRBs and PLBs

VHF radios and cellular telephones are limited in their range, usually no more than 15 to 25 miles from shore. If you needed help or assistance in an emergency when offshore beyond this range, a satellite Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) or a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) may be your best hope for rescue.These beacons are part of a worldwide distress system and are designed to quickly and reliably alert rescue personnel, indicate an accurate position, and guide rescue units to the distress scene when all other communications fail. When activated, these units transmit a unique signal that incorporates your location and in some cases, specific information about your vessel. By law, these beacons must be registered so rescue personnel have reliable information. PLBs are also useful for hiking and other adventures so vessel information can be changed to reflect another activity with a different description.Since these units can cost hundreds of dollars, the BoatUS Foundation rents EPIRBs and PLBs at a mere fraction of the cost of ownership and makes them available to any boater seeking the peace-of-mind and emergency beacon provided. For more information on this program visit www.boatus.org/epirb

Transom

Vertical surface at the back of the hull

VHF Radios

Very High Frequency (VHF) radios have been around for many years and remain the primary means of communication for vessels throughout the United States. The main uses of a VHF radio are: Distress calling and safety Hailing for on-water assistance such as a tow vessel Contacting marinas for information and services Navigating through locks and drawbridges Receiving NOAA Weather Broadcasts Communicating with commercial and recreational vessels When you're stuck in a jam, whether from engine failure or a fierce storm approaching, a VHF radio can be your lifeline to the world. In Coast Guard jurisdictions, VHFs are monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For extra assurance, the USCG and most TowBoatUS towers can locate your boat by tracking your VHF signal.The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates marine radio traffic and dictates that all other uses are secondary to safety, so chatting is strongly discouraged by the FCC and forbidden on Channels 16 and 9.VHF radios come in many shapes, sizes and colors to meet anyone's needs today. Prices start at about $100 for a basic model and can go higher as you add more features.When choosing a VHF radio consider the features you feel you want and need. For additional information on VHF Radios, be sure to check out the specialized course titled All About Marine Radio: Choosing and Using a VHF Radio for Your Boat at www.boatus.org/courses

When and how to use

Visual distress signals are part of your boat's safety equipment. Check them before you leave harbor. Their intended purpose is to summon help should the need arise and should be displayed only when immediate or potential danger exists. Visual distress signals can only be effective when someone is in a position to see them. Therefore, when employing pyrotechnic devices, do so only when you see or hear a boat or airplane or you are reasonably sure that someone on shore is in position to see your signal and take action. Good judgment is an essential part of successful use of visual distress signals.All distress signaling devices have both advantages and disadvantages. The most popular, because of cost, are probably the smaller pyrotechnic devices. Pyrotechnics make excellent distress signals, but they have the drawback that they can be used only once. Additionally, there is a potential for both injury and property damage if not properly handled.Pyrotechnics devices have a very hot flame, and slag (molten discharge) can cause burns and ignite material that burns easily. Projected devices, such as pistol launched and hand-held parachute flares and meteors, have many of the same characteristics of a firearm and must be handled with the same caution and respect.The hand-held and the floating orange smoke signaling devices are excellent (if not the best) day signals, especially on clear days. Both signals are most effective with light to moderate winds. However, in higher winds the winds tend to disperse the orange signal cloud which makes it harder to see.Red hand-held flares can be used by day, but are most effective at night or in restricted visibility such as fog or haze. Only Coast Guard or SOLAS flares are acceptable for use on recreational boats. When selecting such flares look for the Coast Guard approval number and date of manufacture. Make sure that the device does not carry the marking: "Not approved for use on recreational boats," and that no more than 3 years have passed since manufacture.Note: In some states the pistol launcher for meteors and parachute flares may be considered a firearm. Therefore, check with your state authorities before acquiring such launcher.

Water Skiing and Other Tow Sports

Water skiing and other tow sports like wakeboarding, kneeboarding and tubing are a great way to have fun while enjoying boating. That said, it's not an activity to be undertaken without preparation. It requires some special skills by the boat operator and the participant, an understanding of hand signals, and demands a lot of attention to safety by both parties.As the captain of the boat, it's your responsibility to ensure the safety of the person being towed, so before hitting the water, take a couple of minutes to set down some rules with them and the other passengers in the boat. Review hand signals, plan where you'll go once the participant is behind the boat, and discuss what is expected of everyone on board. Here are some guidelines that will help make your next trip safe and enjoyable!

Towing

Weight Distribution - Driving hazards such as potholes, uneven pavement and sharp curves can cause white knuckle driving when towing a trailer, especially if the weight on the trailer is distributed incorrectly. Most experts suggest a tongue weight of between 5% and 15% of the total weight of the boat, motor, trailer and gear should be on the trailer ball when the coupler is parallel to the ground. Single axle trailers favor the higher end of this range and multiple axle trailers favor the lower end of this range.If there is too much weight on the ball the tow vehicle will be difficult to steer. You can also stress the vehicle's suspension system. If there is too little weight on the ball the trailer is prone to fishtailing which is excessive swaying from side to side. Fishtailing can also occur when tires are too soft or the trailer and the boat are too heavy for the tow vehicle.Techniques for redistributing weight at the coupler and hitch ball include shifting gear inside the boat, emptying water and fuel tanks, and adjusting the boat's position fore and aft on the trailer. If all else fails, you may be able to remedy the problem by moving the trailer's axle, but this is a much larger job that usually requires a professional service center.Getting There (In One Piece) - The first thing you should remember when towing a trailer is to be able to reduce your speed in time to react to traffic and road conditions ahead. The additional weight of a trailer dramatically affects braking, so leave considerably more distance than you normally would between your vehicle and the one in front of you. Some states have separate speed limits for vehicles pulling trailers and you should also be alert to signs restricting trailers. Remember also to allow extra space when you pass other cars and don't forget to swing wider at corners so your trailer doesn't hit the curb.Make it a habit to check the wheel hubs every time you stop for fuel. If one hub feels hotter than the other, or if both feel abnormally hot, the bearings should be inspected before you continue the trip. Straps holding the boat, lug nuts on the wheels, and structural nuts and bolts on the trailer frame should also be examined to make sure they're tight. If it is raining, check the boat's cover for pooling water, which could affect weight distribution and make the vehicle more difficult to handle.

Your responsibility

When a guest steps aboard, the typical boat owner is more likely thinking about getting underway or where they are anchoring for lunch than worrying about his responsibilities as "Master" of the vessel. But, as an experienced skipper you know that a boat can pitch suddenly when it goes through a wake or comes about. You know to hang on until the boat is steady again. But these situations may be new to a guest.Your responsibility starts with the premise that a property owner has a duty to exercise ordinary or reasonable care for his guests' safety. The duty to exercise reasonable care is rooted in the duty to provide a reasonably safe boat for the invited guest. This does not require that the boat be accident proof. Under the law, the applicable standard of care requires the boat owner to provide a boat that is reasonably safe, not one that is absolutely safe.Clearly then, as skipper, you have the responsibility to warn an unsuspecting guest when you are aware of potentially hazardous situations on your boat such as low railings, exposed deck hardware and the safe ways to move around on a boat. Further, you have a responsibility to warn guests about possible risks that are unrelated to your boat, like passing boat wakes and severe weather. And, even if you are unaware of a loose railing, wobbly step, or you don't see an approaching boat wake, you may still be liable for any injuries that result.And finally, operator responsibility extends to those guests and other waterway users that are in the water. Unfortunately, propeller strikes are a possible source of injury and even death. As an operator, beware and use extreme caution when people are in the water and turn off your engine anytime a person is in the water and within one boat length of the boat. Also, it is advisable to educate your guests about the dangers of swimming around a boat and how to re-board the boat properly so as to avoid injury.

Port

When facing the bow, the port is the left side of the boat

Clean boating briefing

When guests arrive, every captain should give a quick safety briefing to ensure all passengers stay safe while enjoying the water. But as a clean boater, you should also provide your passengers with a clean boating briefing before getting underway. Encourage your guests to use the marina restrooms before departing. Show your passengers where the boat head is and how to operate it. Inform your guests that no trash goes overboard, this includes cigarette butts, apple cores and banana peels. Show them the locations of onboard trash and recycling containers and explain the importance of keeping them covered.

Potential Collision situation

When the distance between two vessels decreases and the relative angle of the other vessel off the bow remains the same, then you will soon be trying to occupy the same spot in the water - a collision situation. Change course or reduce speed, even if you are the stand-on vessel.

tunnel hull

When you see a catamaran, you are looking at a tunnel hull. Hulls are essentially two deep-v hulls joined by a platform/cockpit area. Tunnel hulls are gaining in popularity, as they offer many of the benefits of other hull designs, such as stability, speed, and roominess with few of the drawbacks. Can operate in virtually any seas, and tends to ride better than monohull boats.

Playing Hookey

Where you're going - Where you plan to anchor often dictates what type of anchor you should use. Is the bottom rock, or is it soft mud? If you are not familiar with the area ask around or look at a local chart.Local Conditions - Anchoring in a calm protected cove can be quite different than anchoring offshore or on a large open bay, and don't forget the weather. High winds, tides and waves can all make anchoring difficult, if not impossible.The table below will give you an idea of what your boat needs. Most anchors will list their holding power on their sales sheet. Anchors are rated by "holding power," which is the ability of an anchor to hold a given weight. Keep in mind that a 10,000 pound boat may only require an anchor with a holding power of a few hundred pounds on a calm day, but may need 1,000 pounds of holding power or more on a stormy day.

Sailing vessels

Whether following inland or international rules, power vessels must keep clear of sailing vessels in open water. A sailboat with its motor running is defined as a motor boat. The responsibility between sailing vessels is more complex. If two sailing vessels are approaching one another, avoid the risk of collision by following these sailing rules: When each has the wind on a different side, the vessel which has the wind on the port side shall keep out of the way of the other. When both have the wind on the same side, the vessel which is to windward shall keep out of the way of the vessel which is to leeward. If a vessel with the wind on the port side sees a vessel to windward and cannot determine with certainty whether the other vessel has the wind on the port or the starboard side, she shall keep out of the way of the other. In the rules listed above, the windward side will always be on the opposite side of the mainsail. On square-rigged vessels, the mainsail will be on the opposite side from the largest fore-and-aft sail.

Documentation

While federally documented vessels are not required to display state registration numbers, you may still be required to register the vessel with the state, pay any required sales taxes, and display the state issued decal. Your best bet is to display the state decal and the federal documentation sticker as prescribed in your issuing documents. It is unlawful to display any other numbers in the area where these decals are to be affixed. Ships are documented according to use—commercial, recreational, etc. While you may use a commercial vessel for recreational purposes, you may not use a recreational boat for commercial purposes. Doing so will result in the loss of documentation, and fines or penalties. Documentation numbers need to be permanently attached to a structural portion of the hull, and the vessel's name and home port need to be listed on the hull—usually the transom. Recreational vessels must have the name and hailing port listed in 4 inch letters. Commercial vessels must do the same, but they must also have the name on both sides of the bow. Documentation is only available for boats that admeasure 5 gross tons, which works out to be about 30 feet in length. "Admeasurement" is a unit of volume - not weight. A boat that weighs 10,000 pounds might not qualify for documentation.

PWC Etiquette

With some common sense and common courtesy, both PWC users and traditional boaters can coexist and enjoy their time on the water. Following some simple operating procedures can help eliminate the majority of complaints against PWCs.Noise is probably the number one complaint about PWC use. The best way to avoid noise complaints is to follow the Rules of the Road and also to avoid operating at high speed near the shoreline and other boaters.Obey the law! Riding through surf and boat wakes is not only dangerous, but in many states it is illegal. Many states also restrict the distance PWCs can operate from other boats, other PWCs and the shoreline. If all PWC users faithfully obeyed the law, there would be far fewer complaints, and consequently far fewer usage restrictions. PWC operators control their own destiny regarding new restrictions.

Backfire Flame Arrestors

With some minor and technical exceptions, every inboard gasoline engine must be equipped with an acceptable means of backfire flame control-or "flame arrestor." This safety device prevents an exhaust backfire from causing an explosion. It operates by absorbing heat.Flame arrestors no longer require Coast Guard approval; the USCG now accepts flame arrestors complying with Underwriters Laboratories Standard 1111 or Society of Automotive Engineers J1928. When in use flame arrestors must be secured to the air intake of the carburetor with an airtight connection. Elements must be clean, and grids must be tight enough to prevent flames passing through. Cleaning with soap and water is the best way to maintain its effectiveness.

Rivers

With thousands and thousands of miles of navigable rivers, the United States offers a tremendous variety of cruising options. Rivers offer many different challenges to boaters, and you need to know what to expect before you start off on your next river adventure since hazards vary greatly depending on where you are cruising.Some things to watch out for are low-head dams, bridges with restricted clearances, over-head power lines, and even buoys that are submerged or moved by a fast moving current. Natural hazards include bars and shoals, submerged rocks, floating debris (which may accumulate into partial dams called "strainers") and strong tides and currents.Navigation on rivers may also be somewhat different from river to river depending on population and traffic. Some rivers are relatively remote while others have a large commercial traffic presence, which is probably the greatest challenge to recreational boating.River bends must be handled with great care, as you often cannot see what is around the bend. Though most boaters tend to operate their vessels in the middle of the waterway, the waters are actually deeper on the outside of river bends. Passing oncoming traffic port to port (like passing cars) and staying to the right side of the channel is generally the safest.

Boating Law

Your boat must be properly numbered, must have a current state registration decal, and your registration, or "certificate of number," must be aboard. Boat numbers must be affixed on the forward portion of both the port and starboard side. -Numbers should be block letters instead of script. -Numbers need to be at least three inches in height. -The color needs to contrast with the hull color. -The number needs spaces or hyphens between numerals and letters, for example: ST 1234 AB or ST-1234-AB Also, most states require a current registration decal immediately after or before the boat numbers on the port side, generally within 6 inches. Finally, if you register your boat in your state of residence, but store it or use in another state, you might have to register your boat in that state, or face a fine.

Planing Hull

designed to rise up and glide on top of the water when enough power is supplied.Flat hulls do not handle well in rough water. Many planing boats use a shallow "V" shape to ride better in rough waters. This boat has a V-bottom for better handling in rough water.

Bow

front of a ship

Tides and sea conditions

in the ocean, swells (caused by the interaction of ocean currents with distant weather systems) gradually build into waves. As they travel, each crest reaches higher above its trough. Increasing wind tears at the wave tops, causing whitecaps. When this heavy sea encounters shallow water, crests rise and break and surf crashes ashore. Sometimes, these waves near shore will form strong rip currents pushing back out to sea. This effect is often amplified by the narrowing funnel of an inlet or sandbar.Regular, intermittent currents that respond to movement of the sun and moon are called tidal currents. Approximately every 6 hours, tidal currents force masses of water against and away from shore resulting in the rise and fall of water level. The highest tides and strongest currents are associated with "spring tides" during new and full moons, when the moon and sun pull in opposite directions.Depending upon where you boat, tides, or the vertical movement of water, can have a major impact on your boating experience and water depth. Consult the tide charts, tables or your favorite tide and current app for your area before you go boating. Tide tables offer a broad range of information about tides, including when high and low tides will occur, and what the high and low tides will be at a given location. Low tides can expose concealed sandbars and shallow areas so consult a nautical chart for your area so you don't run aground.Tsunami Awareness on the Pacific CoastTsunamis: In-Depth - The Pacific "Ring of Fire" is the main generator of seismic events that can create tsunamis. The West Coast of the United States has had tsunamis in the past and can expect another tsunami in the future. It is important for boaters in coastal areas to know what to do if they are on their boat when a tsunami may strike. A tsunami is a series of ocean waves that are caused by disturbances in the earth's crust. Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, explosions, landslides and meteorite impacts can all cause tsunamis and can cause severe damage to boats on the water and on shore. Tsunamis are unpredictable events. While tsunamis can occur in any ocean, most occur in the ring of fire areas from South America to Indonesia. Not all tsunamis are caused by far away events. Local geologic events can cause earthquakes too. The Cascadia subduction zone is known to have caused tsunamis in the past and scientists assume that there will be another tsunami caused by slippage in the Pacific Northwest portion of this zone. Not all major earthquakes result in a tsunami. According to Sea Grant, Hawaii tsunamis are capable of flooding areas hundreds of feet inland past the normal high tide line. The water moves at three hundred to six hundred mph and can crush almost anything in its path. Tsunamis cause rapid changes in the water including water levels and unpredictable currents especially in harbors and entrance channels. What To Do You should have an evacuation plan including what to do with your boat and belongings and if there is time, you should have planned what you will take off your boat if you cannot move the boat itself. Tsunamis move very quickly, several hundred miles per hour, and if an earthquake along the Cascadia subduction zone is severe, there will be little time available to get to high ground. If you are on land and experience an earthquake strong enough to knock you down, forget your boat and follow your local tsunami evacuation route procedures. If you receive a tsunami warning that allows you time to take care of your boat: move your already trailered boat to an area outside the evacuation zone. You may not be able to get your boat out of the harbor in time and your best strategy is to leave your boat. You will want to take along your insurance and ownership papers as you evacuate. If in deep water (600 feet to 1,200 feet or greater), you should stay at sea. If time allows, you can take your boat into deeper water (at least 1,200 feet deep) that is not in a harbor or at the entrance to a channel. You should not block a harbor entrance or shipping channel. If you are in a body of water with that contains major shipping lanes, such as the Puget Sound or the Lower Columbia River in Washington State, you should anticipate heavy shipping traffic heading seaward. You may not be able to get your boat out of the harbor in time and your best strategy is to leave the boat. If you take your boat out to sea, do not return until you hear an All Clear on the radio by the Civil Defense agency.

Helm

steering wheel of a ship; position of control

Hull

the frame or body of ship

Starboard

the right side of a ship when facing the bow

gunwales

the upper edge of the side of a boat or ship

How Much CO Is Too Much?

200 PPM Slight headaches within two to three hours. 400 PPM Frontal headaches within one to two hours. 800 PPM Dizziness, nausea, and convulsions within 45 minutes. Insensible within two hours. 1,600 PPM Headache. Dizziness and nausea within 20 minutes. Death within 30 minutes. 3,200 PPM Headache and dizziness within five minutes. Death within 30 minutes. 6,400 PPM Headache and dizziness within one to two minutes. Death in less than 15 minutes. 12,800 PPM Death in less than three minutes. CO Concentration at the Source Gasoline Engine 10,000 - 100,000 PPM Diesel Engine 1,000 PPM

If There Is No Help Available

Apply heating pads or hot water bottles under the blanket to the head, neck, chest, and groin. Be careful not to burn the victim's skin. If these are unavailable, use your own body warmth to warm the victim. Wrap yourself in a blanket together and use as much body to body contact as possible. Do not apply heat to the arms and legs. This forces cold blood from the arms and legs back toward the heart, lungs and brain, lowering core body temperature and causing "after drop" which can be fatal. Do not massage the victim or give the victim a hot bath. Cardiac arrest is a frequent result of hypothermia, and moving the victim roughly can be a catalyst for this condition. Do not give food or drink to unconscious victims.

The Risks of Carbon Monoxide

A couple in Michigan arrived at their boat one October, started the gas generator, turned on the boat's electric heater, and set to work on a few end of the season projects. While they were working, carbon monoxide (CO) from the gas generator began creeping quietly into the main saloon somewhere down in the bilge.Without a CO alarm, there was no way that the couple could have been aware - or even had the tiniest hint - that the deadly gas was mixing with the oxygen in the boat's cabin. CO is colorless and odorless, and it produces initial symptoms--drowsiness, headaches, nausea, or dizziness--that aren't especially alarming and could easily be confused with seasickness.The unsuspecting couple soon "fell asleep," and would have died had it not been for the early arrival-almost two hours early-of their son. He quickly shut off the generator, opened ports, and phoned the rescue squad. They were extremely lucky; most CO claims have a much sadder outcome.An investigation afterward concluded that the CO had come from a drain plug in the generator's muffler that had worked loose and lay in the bilge. The report also noted the lack of a CO detector aboard, which wasn't a surprise. Of a dozen or so recent claims for CO fatalities or near fatalities in a boat's cabin, the lack of a CO detector is the only thing that all of them had in common.CO can enter a cabin from many different sources, according to the claim files: from a hot water heater; from a galley stove; from the "station wagon effect"-exhaust from the boat's engine; from a generator; and even from other nearby boats. There have also been several injuries from people swimming under swim platforms when an engine or generator was being operated.Teak surfing, dragging and water-skiing within 20 feet of a moving vessel can also expose the person to lethal levels of carbon monoxide and can overcome participants with no notice.

Types of Aids to Nav

ATONs encompass a wide range of floating and fixed objects (fixed meaning attached to the bottom or shore), and consist primarily of: Buoys - floating objects that are anchored to the bottom. Their distinctive shapes and colors indicate their purpose and how to navigate around them. Beacons -Which are structures that are permanently fixed to the sea-bed or land. They range from structures such as light houses, to single-pile poles. Most beacons have lateral or non-lateral aids attached to them. Lighted beacons are called "LIGHTS", unlighted beacons are "DAYBEACONS". Both Buoys and Beacons may have lights attached, and may have a sound making device such as a gong, bell or horn. Both Buoys and Beacons may be called "marks".CAUTION - Do not count on floating aids to always maintain their precise charted positions, or unerringly display their characteristics. The Coast Guard works constantly to keep aids on station and functioning properly, but sometimes circumstances can cause them to get displaced causing unreliability. Only use floating aids for use as a navigation fix when you cannot see a fixed point of reference.

Pre-depature

Accident preparation begins before you leave the dock, and involves everyone aboard the vessel. You should always consult with your pre-departure or safety checklist and discuss it with everyone aboard prior to departure. When your guests first arrive, particularly if they are new to the boat, you should take a few moments to go over the following: Show everyone where the emergency equipment is: fire extinguishers, first aid kit, flares, horn, etc. Fit everyone in a life jacket, and let them hold on to it. Better yet, have them wear it. Show everyone how to operate the bilge pump, the VHF radio, the GPS and all other electronic equipment. Go over your trip plan, show them where you are on a chart, and where you are going on the chart. Show them the location of the anchor and how to use it. Show everyone where extra lines are stored and how to tie the boat up. Also be sure to explain how the boat handles in rough water -whether it is out on a busy day or when the weather turns. Also show people how to use the head, if equipped, and how to dispose of garbage.Giving your guests detailed information on how to be a good boater will make everyone safer, and help them to have a more enjoyable time on the water.If an accident were to happen, getting rescued starts with letting people know where you are going, and when you should be back. Filing a float plan will ensure that people will be looking for you.

The overtaking situation

Any vessel overtaking any other vessel must keep out of the way of the vessel being overtaken. The overtaking is always the give-way vessel and the vessel being overtaken is always the stand-on vessel.This rule applies even if the overtaking vessel is propelled by wind, oars, or rubber band paddlewheel.A vessel is deemed to be overtaking when approaching another vessel from a direction more than 22.5 degrees abaft (behind) her beam. This is the angle in which the overtaking vessel will be able to see the stern light of the other vessel.At night, the overtaking vessel will see only the white stern light of the vessel being overtaken. If you see either side light, it is a crossing situation

While Waiting For Help To Arrive

Any victim pulled from cold water should seek trained medical treatment immediately. Symptoms may include intense shivering, loss of coordination, mental confusion, cold and blue (cyanotic) skin, weak pulse, uncontrolled breathing, irregular heartbeat, and enlarged pupils. Typically, once shivering stops, core body temperature begins to drop critically. Try to prevent body cooling and get the victim to a medical facility immediately. Here are some helpful steps to follow if assisting someone who has been immersed in cold water: Gently move the victim to a warm shelter. Check for breathing and a heartbeat. Start CPR if necessary. If you have dry clothes or a blanket, remove the victim's wet clothes. Use a minimum of body movement, since rough handling can cause cardiac arrest. Cut the clothes off, if necessary. If possible, keep the victim in the same position as rescued to prevent a stroke caused by moving them incorrectly. If moving is necessary (such as from a boat to shelter), carefully lay the victim in a level face-up position with a blanket or some other insulation underneath. Wrap the victim in a dry blanket or dry clothes. If possible, warm the clothes first. If a stocking cap is available, put it on the victim's head since a great deal of heat is lost from the head. If the person is awake, coherent, and can swallow, give them warm (not hot) liquids. Warm hot tea with sugar or honey or slightly-cooled hot chocolate are good since sugars can still be absorbed even if the stomach has shut down. Never give a hypothermic person alcohol. Alcohol dilates (opens) your veins, which will make you lose body heat more rapidly.

Operational Requirements

As Personal Water Craft are considered to be type "A" motor craft, they must adhere to certain Coast Guard requirements as follows: A PWC must be equipped with a marine-rated Type-B fire extinguisher and emergency signaling devices. All PWCs must be registered according to state regulations, and have a registration number displayed. Follow state guidelines for specific regulations. You must adhere to the manufacturer's listed capacity limits for people and equipment. Each PWC has an attached capacity decal that states what you may carry. Additional information may be found in your operating manual. Life Jackets must be worn by all riders and operators. Choose a properly fitting, Coast Guard-approved life jacket and WEAR IT! You may be required to take a boating education course prior to operating your PWC. Check your local laws. Other gear to consider: EYE PROTECTION - water spray can greatly affect your vision. Goggles or wrap around glasses offer the best protection. FOOT PROTECTION - Shoes or sandals will protect your feet and give you added traction. GLOVES - Gloves will allow you to keep a tight grip on wet controls. WET SUITS - In colder water a wet suit will provide extra comfort by keeping you warm.

Fire-Ports and Fixed Systems

Because fires need fuel and oxygen to burn, opening an engine compartment hatch to look for a fire will only increase the flames by pouring fresh oxygen. The solution is to leave the hatch closed and fight the fire either with a fixed extinguisher in the engine compartment or with a portable extinguisher discharged through a fire port (a small breakable opening into the engine compartment).Dry chemical extinguishers of any class are inappropriate in this case because if you are blindly spraying through a fire port the chemical isn't being directed toward the base of the flames and it will be ineffective. A gaseous extinguisher, on the other hand, extinguishes the fire by affecting the oxygen supply. The same extinguisher that wasn't effective in the wide-open spaces of a boat's cabin will be much more useful in a cramped engine compartment.For this reason, the ABYC recommends that either a portable gaseous extinguisher be provided near (outside) the engine compartment or a fixed gaseous extinguishers be used inside the engine compartment. In the event of a fire, either option eliminates the need to open the hatch. Overall, the most efficient fire protection system is the safest.The majority of fires begin in the engine compartment for many reasons including constant pounding and vibration loosens wiring terminals and causes chafe, engine exhausts fail, water pumps fail, fuel leaks, and many other possibilities. In the event of a fire in the engine compartment, a fixed system has many benefits: An automatic system, activated by a rise in temperature, can discharge and extinguish a fire long before any crew can detect a fire and react with a portable extinguisher. The automatic system kills the fire earlier and minimizes damage. Since the extinguishing agent Halotron will not damage internal engine parts, it is often possible to restart the engine(s) after a fire and return to port (after locating and correcting the problem in the engine, of course). Fire extinguishers are typically the last line of defense. The first is knowing how to prevent fires before they occur.

Rules of the road

Boating on a crowded waterway can be intimidating - especially for new boaters. The good news is that there are rules to govern the action of each vessel. Unfortunately, many vessel operators do not know the rules!The Rules state that every vessel shall use all available means to determine if a risk of collision exists. If there is any doubt, err on the side of caution and manuever to avoid a collision. One of the primary Navigation Rules is that you must do anything to avoid immediate danger or a collision, even if that means breaking a Rule. It is your responsibility as the ship's captain to be aware of your surroundings at all times, and to operate your vessel in a safe manner.In addition to the Rules, you have other responsibilities as the captain - for the safety of everyone aboard your vessel and those with whom you share the water. You should always watch your boat's noise, avoid disturbing wildlife and sea grasses, and look out for the safety and well-being of other boaters by giving a hand to those in need. Before departing, remember your safety briefing. Create a float plan and give it to a relative or friend. Always operate at a safe, controlled speed for the situation in which you are boating, and any legally mandated speed requirements that there may be, such as a slow/no wake zone. Control your wake (the disturbed water left behind your boat as it moves through the water). You are responsible for your wake and any property damage or personal injury that it causes. Avoid careless, reckless or negligent boat operations, such as operating too closely to other vessels or jumping another boat's wake.

Preventing Carbon Monoxide Accidents

Certainly it is important to recognize the symptoms of CO poisoning: headaches, drowsiness, and nausea. With most of the BoatUS claims, one or more of these symptoms were present, but victims did not recognize the danger they were in.It is also advisable to inspect the engine and generator for leaks in the exhaust system and to avoid, or try to avoid, the many different situations that could bring CO into a boat's cabin.That isn't easy. Accidents have been traced to wind direction, proximity to a dock or seawall, boats rafted together, an open hatch or port, a canvas cover, or combination of several causes.It isn't unusual after an accident, for an inspector to spend many hours, or even days, trying to ascertain how CO got into a boat's cabin. It's very important to keep the boat well ventilated by having fresh air move through the boat.While guarding against the many possible sources of CO is certainly advisable, the most reliable safeguard is a CO detector. As of August 1, 1998, the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC), the organization that writes the voluntary standards for recreational boats, began recommending that all boats with enclosed accommodation areas and a gasoline generator or a gasoline inboard propulsion engine have a marine-rated CO detector installed.

Loading The Boat

Correctly loading a boat starts from your very first step onboard. First, step gently into the center of boat; avoid stepping on the sides or the seats, or jumping onboard. If you have a lot of gear, hand the gear to someone on the boat, or leave it on the pier and reach for it from the boat. Boarding a boat with a handful of equipment gives you extra weight and instability and leaves you without a hand to steady yourself. Be sure to hold on to something whenever boarding or moving around the boat even if you feel you are stable. You never know when another boat's wake or someone else's sudden movement could cause you to lose your balance and end up in the water or with an injury. It is important to distribute weight evenly around the boat. Take special care not to load too much weight in the stern. Once the boat picks up speed the stern will lower into the water making it prone to swamping. It is also important to keep the center of gravity low in the boat. Piling gear high will raise the center of gravity and can cause the boat to tip over unexpectedly. Make sure everything on board is properly stowed to avoid tripping hazards as well as to avoid having gear shift around when underway. To avoid overloading your boat, remember to check the vessel's capacity plate for the total amount of weight (including people, gear and the motor) the boat can hold. Be sure to consider the weight of all the gear you've brought along. For example, if you have an 18 foot boat it can probably carry 900 pounds of motor, gear and people. With an outboard weighing 200 pounds, and another 200 pounds of fuel and gear, you can realistically only take 2 other people with you on the boat, maybe just one if everyone weighs over 200 pounds or the weather is rough.

Basic Rules Of Water Skiing Safety

Do wear a life jacket while operating the boat and while being towed. The participant should wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket that has a high impact rating and is designed for water sports. Do have an observer on board whose only job is to watch the participant, receive signals and alert the boat operator if they fall. Do discuss ahead of time how you intend to pick up a person in the water and give them instructions on how to properly re-board. Don't ever leave the boat running while a person is attempting to re-board and never use the engine or propeller as a step. Do be familiar with the area so you can avoid areas of shallow water, submerged obstructions and other dangerous situations. Also, stay clear of beaches and swimming areas, and do not purposely spray other boats or swimmers. Do go over hand signals with the participant before he or she is in the water. Do use a tow rope that is between 60 and 75 feet long, but no longer. Shorter lines can put you dangerously close to the boat and longer lines can create a very dangerous "whip" action. Do give a wide berth to fishermen and slower moving crafts like canoes, kayaks and sailboats. Don't engage in any water sports activity when it is getting dark or is night. It is hard for the boat operator and others to see. Don't use drugs or alcohol. These substances impair good judgment and coordination. Don't go within 300 feet of another vessel, or 100 feet of the shore, a dock, or swim area.

Hypothermia

Don't get left out in the cold...One of the most dangerous aspects of boating is the risk of hypothermia. Hypothermia happens when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. It can occur as a result of prolonged exposure to cold air or when a person is suddenly immersed in cold water. If someone does fall into very cold water, there is only a limited time before they begin to lose their thinking capability and the use of limbs. Most experts say that half of all drowning victims do not actually die from water filling their lungs, but instead from the fatal effects of cold water.Hypothermia and YouWater does not have to be ice cold to bring on hypothermia. It just has to be colder than you. Cold water is considered to be water under 70 degrees, but even 80 degree water is still almost 20 degrees colder than your body temperature. Given time, your body's core temperature will drop as you lose heat to the water.Hypothermia and HuntersWaterfowl hunters use boats on some of the coldest days of the year. Not only is the water freezing cold on these days, but the hunter is likely wearing heavy clothing which can create a hazard if immersed. If he goes in the water, he's in serious trouble. Here is where a life jacket or a "float coat" can mean the difference between life and death. Without some flotation device your chances of survival drop drastically.

Swim-Proofing Your Swim Platform

Every year, people are struck by the propeller of their boat or another boat. Even propellers in neutral or at rest can cause serious injuries such as when picking up a skier or diving under an anchored boat. Sadly, propeller incidents are becoming more common with boating fatalities growing annually along with injuries.Since the propeller is out of sight below the water's surface, the boat operator and passengers may not recognize or consider the consequences of accidental or inadvertent contact with propellers. A safety device that can reduce the dangers is an engine cut-off lanyard. It is attached to the operator with a wrist strap and will stop the engine if the operator moves out of range or if the operator is displaced.Some new engine cut-off devices are now wireless so that all occupants can wear a device that will stop the engine or sound an alarm if the person wearing it goes overboard. You may also want to consider an engine interlock or other sensor, which prevents the engine from starting or notifies the operator if the swim ladder is in the lowered position. Lastly, propeller rings, guards and baskets which are available only for certain boat models with limited horsepower may prevent propeller strikes.

Paddlesports Hazards and Considerations

Fast Moving Water and High Water - Moving water has tons of pressure behind it. Water levels and conditions can change rapidly, especially downstream of a dam. Getting trapped in moving water or pinned to an obstruction can be deadly.Low-Head Dams and Waterfalls - Low Head Dams are one of the most dangerous features encountered by river paddlers. From upstream low-head dams may be difficult to spot, and in fact can be virtually invisible until you are too close to reroute. Don't underestimate the power of its suction or current. Below dams and waterfalls, undertows and back currents (called hydraulics) can pull a paddler and the craft underwater, and sometimes pin them below the water's surface. To locate important safety information regarding weather, stream flow and local hazards such as low-head dams, overhead wires and submerged objects, paddlers should consult with their local waterways authority prior to departure.Water Obstructions and Strainers - Avoid overhanging branches or downed trees, especially in moving water. These obstacles permit water to pass through while retaining solid objects. In moving water, these obstructions can trap boats or paddlers who have fallen overboard. If you have capsized and have exited the boat, you should float with your feet pointed downstream, especially in a swift current.Limited Visibility - Don't count on your eyes to spot dangers at night. In fog, don't expect other craft to see you, especially larger boats. Always have a light on board your vessel at night and during times of restricted visibility.Cold Water - Be especially prepared for cold water. When the air temperature and water temperature add up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or less, wear a wet suit or a dry suit. Always carry a spare change of dry clothes in a watertight bag when boating in cold water. Falls overboard in cold water (or even exposure to cold air for a period of time) can lead to hypothermia.

Fighting Fires

Fight a fire yourself if and only if: It's small and confined to the immediate area where it started. Generally, if you don't get to it within 2 minutes, you're too late. You have a way out and can fight with your back to the exit. Your extinguisher is rated for the class of fire at hand (unless you have ABC units). Only Class A fires can be extinguished with water. You are confident that you can operate your extinguisher effectively. Check for glowing or smoldering embers and repeat the procedure if flare-ups occurs. If you have the slightest doubt about whether you can contain the fire, don't even try. Your first concern is the safety of the people aboard. Notify someone immediately of your situation and location before the fire burns through the battery cables or forces you off the boat. Burning fiberglass is extremely hot and gives off noxious fumes. If fiberglass is burning, get off the boat immediately.Portable Fire Extinguisher Maintenance: Inspect once a month, more often if exposed to weather. Have the unit weighed annually to verify it's fully charged. Gauges fail often enough that they cannot always be relied on. Twice a year turn upside down and shake to loosen any dry chemicals compacted at the bottom. Recharge or replace after any use. Recharges run $15-25. Inexpensive units can be replaced for about the same amount. Never check a unit by partially discharging it. Remaining pressure in canister will leak out over time. Have a full maintenance check annually by a qualified technician or weigh the unit yourself every year and replace it every few years.

Splash!...Now What?

First, if you are about to fall in the water cover your face with your hands. This may sound strange but quickly becoming immersed in icy water can cause "Torso Reflex," or a sudden involuntary gasp for air. Covering your mouth is an attempt to avoid gulping water into your lungs when this happens.Try to hold onto something that floats. If you are wearing a life preserver, great. If there are additional life jackets floating nearby grab those to use as floats. Try to hold onto your boat, or even right the boat and climb inside (some boats are inherently buoyant and float even when filled with water). The idea is to get as much of your body out of the water as possible, so there is less area that can lose heat.Conserve what heat you can. Tighten up your jacket and whatever else you are wearing. Try and keep your legs together and your arms close to your body. The water trapped inside your layers of clothes will warm up from your body heat and act as a wetsuit. Do not remove clothing!Avoid Swimming. Swimming may reduce your likelihood of survival in the water, so only swim for it if it is a "last chance" effort to reach a nearby boat or shore, another person, or a floating object on which you can climb or use for flotation. In some cases, however, swimming for shore may be your only hope especially in remote areas where rescue is unlikely. Swimming pumps out the warm water trapped between your skin and your clothes and brings in colder water. Swimming can also cause debilitating cramps. Avoid swimming if possible.Stay as still as possible, no matter how painful. Intense shivering and severe pain in cold water are natural reflexes that will not kill you, but cold water can. Getting into the "H.E.L.P." position may help you keep your cold arms and legs still. See the next page for more on the H.E.L.P. position.

Inland Boating

For many boaters, exploring different cruising grounds means trailering your boat to a new lake or river. Many times, both sides of the shore are visible, and navigation consists of locating a familiar landmark.Inland cruising has many different rules for operating your boat, and many hazards that you might not be aware of without the "local" knowledge of the water. So how do you get that information?Identify Local HazardsBefore you go out on any body of water, you should try to get a chart. This will give you a good idea of areas to stay away from. You may also want to check to see if there is a local broadcast or another system for notifying waterway users of unique or potentially dangerous conditions. Talking with people at the bait shop, the launch ramp, or the marina will help you find out information that you won't get from a chart - how the current is running after the rains, how low the water is because of the drought, etc.More accurate information can be obtained by tuning in to a local weather station, looking at boating or fishing guides, or consulting with a recent version of the USCG "Notice to Mariners." For open waters, the Coast Guard may issue a "SECURITE" when local conditions pose a hazard. Caution announcements for boaters may include reports of floating debris, missing aids to navigation, or unusual maneuvering activity by large ships in tight quarters.

Intracoastal Waterway

For the sea buoys that indicate channels off the coast of the United States and for the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), red is on the right (shore side) when proceeding clockwise around the U. S. from the East Coast to the Gulf Coast, or proceeding North along the West Coast.ICW marks are further identified by a small yellow reflector at the bottom of the mark. The same port and starboard marks will look like the markers above.

Special Activities Restrictions and Considerations

New YorkMany states regulate certain other water-related activities such as waterskiing and diving. For your safety, and for those who may be in the water, you should abide by these special laws:Special Activities, Restrictions & Requirements: All skiers, and those towed behind a vessel participating in another tow sport, must wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD. Operators of boats towing water skiers or other tow sport participants must have a competent person on board of at least 10 years of age to observe the progress of the person/s being towed. Waterskiing and other tow sport activities must take place only between the hours of sunrise and sunset. A red and white diver down flag must be displayed when divers are in the water and when in federal waters, a blue and white alfa flag must be flown from a vessel that is engaged in diving operations and is restricted in its ability to maneuver. It is illegal to approach within 100 feet of a diving flag. Divers should be aware that it is illegal to disturb any underwater archaeological site and/or remove any artifacts without a state issued permit.

PWCs and the Environment

Fuel and Oil Pollution Refuel on land to reduce any chances of spilling oil or gas into the water. Slow down when filling the tank, don't over-fill, catch any accidental spills with an absorbent pad, and dispose of it properly. Check and clean your engine well away from shorelines. Oil can harm the water's micro-organisms and the animals who eat them, potentially upsetting the entire food chain. Shallow Areas and Vegetation In shallow waters, boats may stir up the bottom, affecting light penetration and oxygen content. This can affect fish and birds. You should ride in main channels, and limit riding in shallow water. When it is necessary to ride in shallow water, keep watercraft at an idle speed to both protect the underwater environment and avoid sucking up weeds and sediment that can damage you PWC. In coastal areas be aware of low tide when waters may be more shallow revealing sea grass beds and other vegetation. These areas are delicate nursery grounds where many of the fish in our waters originate. The least amount of disturbance is in the marked channels or the deeper areas of a lake or river. Try to stay in main channels. WakesExcessive boat wakes may contribute to shoreline erosion, especially in narrow streams and inlets. Erosion is a concern for all shorelines including rivers, lakes, and oceans. The slow destruction of shorelines affects the habitats of plants and animals. Near the shore avoid high speeds which create large wakes and observe posted no wake zones.

Be Prepared

If the worst happens, why not be prepared? Here are some things you can do in advance to give yourself a better chance for survival if you do end up in the water. First of all, dress for the water temperature, not for the air temperature. Having lots of layers on will help you survive if you do end up in the water but you must be wearing a life jacket too. Secondly, wear a hat. When outdoors or boating in cold water, heat can be lost through your head. A hat will help slow heat loss, thereby conserving energy. Eat high energy foods and make sure you are properly hydrated; if you fall in, you'll be glad to have the extra energy. Bring a change of clothes in a dry bag and keep them in the boat just in case someone in your party gets wet.

Reporting Boating Accidents

If you are involved in an accident, you must follow certain laws. The operator or owner of any recreational boat is required to file a Boating Accident Report (BAR) if the boat is involved in an accident that results in: Loss of life; or Personal injury which requires medical treatment beyond first aid; or Damage to the boat and other property damage of $2,000 or more; or Complete loss of the boat. Boat operators are required to report their accident to local authorities in the State where the accident occurred. Keep in mind that the $2000 dollars in property damage is a federal guideline - many states have reporting requirements that start at $500.Fatal AccidentsImmediate notification is required for fatal accidents. If a person dies or disappears as a result of a recreational boating accident, the nearest state boating authority must be notified without delay.The following information must be provided: Date, time and exact location of the accident; Name of each person who died or disappeared; Number and name of the vessel; and Name and address of the owner and operator.

Backing Off

If you've grounded lightly and hull damage appears to be minimal, you can try to free yourself. If in a power boat, first shift to neutral and then determine what's on the bottom. At this point, you may want to raise the engine if you are able. While backing off a soft bottom should do less damage to your hull than backing off rocks, reverse prop wash may throw sand and mud towards your bow, grounding you even more firmly. If you are onboard a small boat it might be easy to kedge off the obstruction by using your anchor to attempt to pull yourself free.With engines raised slightly and in reverse, slowly and carefully try to back off. Also, move passengers away from the point-of-impact to try and dislodge the grounded area. If you are on coral or sea grass, BE CAREFUL! You can cause tremendous damage to either the grass or coral, and subject yourself to stiff penalties and fines for destroying them. It's best to wait for the tide to take you off or to call a professional tower for assistance. If you try to back off, monitor your temperature gauges carefully. The engine's raw water intake may suck up dirt and debris and clog or damage your engine's cooling system. Shut down your engine immediately if you notice a rapid rise in temperature. If you're lucky, a good Samaritan will offer to give you a yank. You'll need to consider the wind and current to make sure you get the best angle on the pull.

When To Stay Aground

If you've sustained serious hull damage, you're better off staying put than reentering deep water. Waiting for high tide is a safe, albeit slow way to get yourself un-stuck.If all else fails and you're really stuck, a commercial tower can help. Unless you're insured, this will cost you $150 an hour, on average. Hard groundings are generally considered to be salvage operations, and cost considerably more than having your boat freed from a soft grounding.But your safety and security are well worth it. Remember, the Coast Guard will not come out to assist or tow you unless you are in immediate danger. Instead, they will hail a commercial tower to come to your assistance. For more information on towing and salvage, visit www.boatus.com/salvage

Fire Extinguisher Classifications

In general, dry chemical extinguishers, which use a chemical powder to smother the source of the fire, are the favored choice in the boat's cabin. Not only is a dry chemical extinguisher effective, it is easier for an inexperienced user to direct the discharge plume to the base of the flame from a safe distance and they are relatively inexpensive.Conversely, extinguishers that use a gaseous agent like CO2 or one of the Halon replacements, which react with the surrounding oxygen, aren't as effective in an open cabin or large area. This is because the gas is quick to dissipate before the fire is extinguished. Fire extinguishers that use a gaseous agent are best for a small, contained area like an engine box with fire port.Dry chemical extinguishers have the potential to ruin equipment, but the priority is on safety and overall effectiveness of the extinguishing agent. The American Boat & Yacht Council recommends that ABC multi-purpose extinguishers be used in most instances on boats under 65'. Using an ABC extinguisher not only reduces any confusion about what to use and where (saving time), but also covers the possibility that a Class B fire that spreads from its origin to surrounding solid materials can be fought with the same extinguisher.Our tests using a simulated galley fire proved that a BC extinguisher is not sufficient to put out a fire that starts as liquid but spreads to solid materials. This test also revealed that a 2.5-lb. extinguisher in the hands of an inexperienced user lacked the capacity to extinguish the fire. No surprise when you consider that the average discharge time for a 2.5-lb. canister is nine to ten seconds.Not only the size, but the location of your extinguishers is critical, if you can't get to an extinguisher when you need it, it's worthless. You shouldn't have to travel more than half the length of the boat to reach it. If it's not practical to store multiple extinguishers on a small boat, an alternative is to step up to the next larger extinguisher size.

Pre-Ride Inspection

It is always a great idea to check your watercraft prior to every outing. This will allow you to make sure that your watercraft is in top operating condition. Some things to check are: Battery: Ensure that your battery is fully charged, and all wires are properly connected, tight, and not frayed. Controls: Make sure steering controls, stop button, lanyard cut-off, and throttle are all working properly. Drain Plug: drain your bilge and be sure your plug is properly secured before launching. Engine: Check fluid levels, hose connections, oil level/leaks, and make sure the engine compartment cover is properly secured. Fuel: Check for fuel leaks, and fill the tank. Plan on using 1/3 of your gas to get there, 1/3 to get back, and keep 1/3 as a reserve. Many PWCs are equipped with a fuel selector or reserve switch to help you avoid running out of fuel. If you run out of fuel, switch the tank setting to "reserve" and go to the dock. Don't forget to reset the switch once you've filled up again! Hull: Check the outside of your PWC for damage, check the jet pump cover and inlet for damage/fit, and secure the seats. Protection: A properly fitting life jacket, gloves, wetsuit, eye, foot gear, and a helmet will help protect you from injury. Safety Gear: Make sure you have the required safety equipment - a fire extinguisher, signaling device(s) and all other legally required equipment. It's also a good idea to have an anchor, handheld VHF radio or cell phone, extra line, drinking water, and sunscreen.

Note To Boats Near Skiers

It's inevitable that some boats towing water sport participants will get closer to your boat than you might like. In areas where water skiing or tow sports are common it's necessary to keep a sharp eye out for them at all times. Give water participants a wide berth. Try to stay at least 100 feet away from each side of a person engaged in water sports, as he or she may not know your boat is there. Do not approach a person being towed too close from the rear. If he or she falls you may not have time to stop. Avoid driving your boat directly into the sun. This makes it difficult to see other boats and water sports participants.

Making a bad situation worse

Judgment: In skills tests, impaired boat operators all reported that they were better operators while intoxicated than sober, despite instrument readings that documented their reduced performance. Alcohol and drugs both reduce inhibitions, causing normally cautious people to try stunts or enter high-risk situations a sober person would avoid.ALCOHOL ONLY MAKES YOU THINK YOU ARE PERFORMING BETTER ... AND DRAMATICALLY INCREASES YOUR REACTION TIME:Alcohol dramatically INCREASES your reaction time, that is to say, it takes more time for you to react because you are slower to react to situations that may occur very quickly on the water. Alcohol severely diminishes your ability to react to multiple signals at once. It takes longer to receive information from your eyes, ears and other senses, and still more time to react. When peripheral vision, focus and depth perception are impaired by alcohol, you can't correctly judge speed and distance, or track moving objects. Reduced night vision and the inability to distinguish red from green make the intoxicated night boater an even greater hazard.

Common Myths About Alcohol

MYTH: Beer is less intoxicating than wine or distilled liquor.FACT: One 12-oz. beer contains the same amount of alcohol as 5 ounces of 12% wine or 1-1/2 oz. of 80 proof liquor.MYTH: Diluting hard liquor slows the absorption rates.FACT: Diluting an alcoholic beverage with water or fruit juice slows absorption. Mixing alcohol with a carbonated beverage increases absorption and intoxicates you more quickly.MYTH: A cold shower, coffee, physical activity or fresh air will sober you up.FACT: Cold showers and coffee will only produce a clean, wide-awake drunk. Only your liver can detoxify alcohol. For each drink you consume, it takes approximately two hours to sober up.MYTH: A shot of brandy or whiskey will warm you up.FACT: In moderate amounts, alcohol dilates the small blood vessels close to the skin, giving a deceptive "glow" of warmth. However, the dilated blood vessels reduce your body's ability to guard against heat loss.MYTH: You cannot receive a ticket if you are under the influence of prescribed drugs.FACT: Operating a vessel while under the influence of prescription drugs will make you just as liable.MYTH: Alcohol is a stimulant.FACT: Alcohol is a depressant. It is absorbed directly into the blood stream through the stomach. As blood circulates through your brain, the alcohol depresses body functions and learned restrictions on social behavior. Judgment, balance, vision and reaction time are affected almost immediately.

Capsizing

Most fatalities on the water occur as a result of capsizing, which is when a boat is knocked down so it lies on its side in the water or turns over - frequent among small sailboats that are sensitive to sudden changes in the wind. Most small boats will remain in this position, unless righted, but will float enough to support you. After a boat has capsized, it is important to do several things: Remain calm and conserve energy Immediately do a head count to make sure everyone is with the boat Ensure that all crew members are wearing PFDs Have everyone stay with the boat; there may be possibilities of righting it, and rescuers can find you more easily Leave the boat only if it is headed toward a hazard and as a last resort If you do lose the boat, or can't right it, try to use anything you can to help you stay above water. The higher you are in the water, the easier it will be to find you. Your next step is to try to get help. Signaling for help takes restraint - you don't want to tire yourself out or run out of signals such as flares. Having signal flares, smoke flares, whistles, or a horn is very important. If all you have is an upside down boat, your options are limited. Some people paint the hull of their boat florescent orange to make it more visible if they capsize. Even the clothes you wear can help you survive longer and get rescued faster. Take turns being the designated "signaler" who yells at a regular interval, or waves at passersby. Try to make everyone as "big" as possible (put on what you can, pull floating debris near you). If you do have appropriate signaling devices, use them only when other vessels are in sight so you can be sure they will be able to see or hear you! Take precautions against swamping and capsizing: Watch that loaded items do not shift from side to side, guard against too much power or speed in turns, and be aware of wakes from passing boats. Take waves at an angle to the bow, at low speeds, giving the hull a chance to ride over rather than dive into them.

State Accident Reporting Requirements

New YorkAnyone involved in a boating accident is required to stop and give assistance as long as it will not personally endanger the operator, passengers or vessel. Operators involved in an accident shall remain at the scene to the extent it is safe and practical, and exchange personal and boat information with authorities and other involved parties.If you or your vessel is involved in an accident, you must file a report on a form supplied by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. A report must be filed with the New York State Parks within 5 days if any of the following occur. Failure to report an accident may result in a $100 fine. Someone is killed or missing Personal injury beyond first aid is sustained Total property damage exceeds $1,000 Report forms can be obtained from the local marine patrol or by contacting:New York State ParksMarine Services Bureau625 BroadwayAlbany, NY 12238

Boat And PWC Speed Limits

New YorkBoat speed limits are regulated by law for certain areas and conditions. When no speed limit is posted you should operate your boat so that it will not endanger others or cause injury, damage, or unnecessary inconvenience. You must operate at a safe speed such that you can always bring your vessel to a safe stop and you should always keep a proper lookout. "Slow-no-wake-speed" is a generally a speed at which you are able to maintain steering and producing minimum wake. White buoys or signs with red or orange markings will indicate posted speed limits and no wake zones. You are responsible for your wake and you must not cause damage with the wake of your vessel. In New York State, vessel speed is generally limited to 5 mph when within 100 feet of the shore, a dock, pier, raft, float, or anchored boat. On some specific bodies of water the 5 mph limit has been extended to 200 feet, and there may also be a 45 mph daytime limit and a 25 mph nighttime limit. Certain bodies of water may have also have horsepower and other engine restrictions. If uncertain, be sure to check with your local authorities before you go.

Reckless & Negligent Operation

New YorkEvery operator of a vessel shall at all times navigate the same in a careful and prudent manner in such a way as not to unreasonably interfere with the free and proper use of the waters of the state or unreasonably endanger any vessel or person.Vessels operating within 100 the shore, a dock, pier, raft, float or an anchored or moored vessel at a speed exceeding five miles per hour, unless for the purpose to assist a water-skier to take off or land.No person shall operate a vessel at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing.Reckless operation is prohibited; specifically no person shall operate or manipulate a device for towing a person or be towed in a reckless or negligent manner so as to endanger the life, limb, or property of any person.Below are some actions that may be considered reckless operation in New York. To speed in no-wake zones. To weave through congested waterway traffic. To operate under the influence of alcohol or drugs. To operate at night without proper navigation lights To operate at excessive speeds for prevailing conditions. To operate a boat within an area clearly marked as restricted. To allow passengers to ride on the bow section of a boat not designed for passengers while underway. To operate any boat beyond its safe carrying capacity of passengers or cargo taking into consideration weather and operating conditions. To operate at more than 5 miles per hour when within 100 feet of the shoreline, a dock, pier, raft, float or anchored boat. Some areas may be more restrictive. To maneuver such that your vessel or another vessel must abruptly swerve or abruptly cut speed to avoid collision, or to operate such that your vessel collides with another vessel, object or person. Additional laws that apply to personal watercraft (PWC):A personal watercraft is considered a Class "A" motorboat and must follow the same laws and regulations as above. Below are some other laws that apply to specifically to PWCs in New York: PWC operators must not maneuver in a way that unreasonably or unnecessarily endangers life, limb, or property. The following are considered reckless operation of a PWC in New York: Carrying more passengers than recommended by the manufacturer Wake jumping too close to other vessels Weaving through congested traffic Last minute swerving to avoid a collision It is illegal to operate a PWC within 500 feet of a designated swim area. PWCs may not be operated between the hours of sunset and sunrise and at other times of restricted visibility. An after market light kit does not allow for legal nighttime operation. If equipped, the operator of a PWC must attach the engine cut-off lanyard to their person, their clothing or PFD during operation. PWCs must also have the following equipment aboard or installed during operation: Horn/Whistle - capable of a two-second blast, audible for a ½ mile. Visual Distress Signal - a fluorescent orange flag (1 foot square) or other appropriate U.S. Coast Guard approved visual distress signaling device.

Officer Authority & Compliance

New YorkIn New York, officers of the State Police, State Park Police, county sheriff's office and other sworn peace officers, Harbormasters and Bay Constables have the duty to provide for safety on the water and have the authority to stop or inspect vessels while enforcing the State's Navigation Laws. In addition the U.S. Coast Guard has authority to stop/board and inspect any vessel.Boat operators must immediately yield to law enforcement when so directed on the water. When operating in an area of law enforcement activity, reduce speed and give a wide berth until beyond the area of operation of the law enforcement vessel. Be cognizant of designated areas that prohibit operation to beyond a specified distance from a defined asset (power plant, navy yard, national landmark or a particular building).

Operating under the influence

New YorkIt is illegal to boat while impaired or intoxicated either through the consumption of alcohol or drugs. State operating under the influence (OUI) laws are becoming more stringent. As on the roadways, on-water enforcement officers may administer sobriety tests and/or conduct a chemical test to determine level of sobriety.If it is determined that your blood alcohol concentration is 0.08% or greater by weight of alcohol as determined by a chemical test, or it is proven that you are operating under the influence of another drug such that it impairs your ability to operate safely, you will be charged with operating under the influence.In New York, if you are stopped for the suspicion of impaired operation and refuse to voluntarily submit to a breath test, your privilege to operate may be immediately suspended pending a hearing.

PWCs and Wildlife

Noise and BirdsBe aware that the noise and movements of boats may disturb bird populations. Steer clear of posted bird nesting areas.Many migratory birds are easily stressed and especially vulnerable during their migration period. Birds will typically fly away from disturbing noises and any unnecessary expenditure of energy can harm a feeding or resting bird.Bird rookeries are especially vulnerable to noise from boats, including personal watercraft. Nesting birds may fly from the nest exposing unprotected eggs and hatchlings to the sun's heat or predators.Wildlife HarassmentDo not harass wildlife by chasing or interrupting feeding, nesting, or resting. Harassment is defined as any action that may cause an animal to deviate from its normal behavior. It is illegal and can unduly stress wildlife.Mammals such as sea otters, sea lions, manatees and whales can be injured from direct impact by boats traveling at high speeds. Ride at controlled speeds so you can see any animals ahead of you. Avoid area of high animal population. If you hit an animal report it to your local wildlife commission. There may be a chance to save its life.

Moving About The Boat

Once in the boat, it's a good idea for all passengers to avoid standing. Small boats can easily become unstable, and when people and/or dogs are sharing the space, the danger of capsizing increases.Hunters should stay seated while shooting so they can brace themselves for the gun's recoil. Standing up in an unstable boat will raise the center of gravity and only make the boat less predictable. When setting decoys, be careful not to lean too far over the sides of the boat.Anglers should stay in a seated position during casting to maintain their balance. A jonboat is a good example of a boat that is not made for standing.Some boats, like bass boats, are specially designed and weighted for standing, just be sure to keep your legs spread for stability, lean against a seat where possible, and wear a life jacket.One of the most critical moments in your boat is when you try to retrieve your fish or waterfowl. Your blood is pumping, your heart is racing, and everyone in the boat is leaning over to see what you've got. That's the moment that the weight of the boat can change suddenly, and before you know it, you're all wet.The most important thing to remember is to keep your weight in the center of the boat. If you're reeling in a fish, try to do it in a seated position and use a landing net to get the fish into the boat. Hunters can also use a landing net or boat hook to avoid leaning too far over the side of the boat to retrieve birds and decoys.

10 Steps To Water Skiing Success

Once you have gone over rules and signals with the participant, it's time to hit the water. The participant should enter the water and move away from the boat before the engine is started. When starting the engine, the boat operator should make sure no one in the water is near the propeller. Wait for the participant to signal that he or she is ready to go. You can use verbal or hand signals. Move the boat forward slowly until the tow rope is taut. When the participant gives a thumb's up (power-up) signal, take off in a straight line with enough power to raise the participant out of the water and onto a plane. Once they are up, adjust your speed based on their hand signals. In areas where water sports are common, a traffic pattern may already be established. Pay attention to what the other boaters are doing and don't jeopardize safety by pulling in front of other boats. The participant should never wrap any part of the tow line around his or her body. It's also a good idea to take off all jewelry and secure life jacket straps that might become loose in the wind. The participant should be aware of surroundings and potential hazards. Immediately after falling, the participant should look behind to assess if there is a danger of being run over. If the situation seems safe, he or she should give the OK sign to let the boat know there are no injuries. A waterskier should hold a ski-tip up out of the water while waiting to be retrieved, and if necessary wave arms. The boat should circle slowly to either return the tow line or pick up the participant. In some states, the boat must raise a skier down flag while retrieving a person in the water. When approaching a person in the water, always keep them in view and on the operator's side of the boat. Always shut off the engine before allowing anyone to board the boat. Once they are safely onboard, retrieve the towline.

Installing A CO Detector

One reason that ABYC may have been slow to recommend the use of CO detectors may be their reputation in the past for emitting unnerving false alarms periodically. You could almost count on a CO detector made prior to 1992, the older "single point" alarms, to sound whenever they detected even the slightest trace of CO.By averaging the CO over a period of a few minutes, these newer alarms will not sound unless they repeatedly detect CO. A proper marine CO detector, incidentally, will have the UL 1524 marine mark, which means it was tested by Underwriters Laboratories standard 1524.ABYC does not say where on the boat a CO detector should be located. The gas, which is about the same weight as oxygen, tends to dissipate evenly in an area and isn't any more likely to be found up near the ceiling or down by the cabin sole. As a practical matter, placing an alarm at eye level allows you to easily monitor any meters or warning lights on a unit.Sleeping areas, main saloons, an enclosed fly-bridge, and anywhere else people spend time are candidates for a CO detector. Areas that should be avoided include near hatches or doors where fresh air might distort readings.

More fun than driving

Operating a boat while intoxicated is a federal offense, subject to a $1,000 fine. Criminal penalties are as high as $5,000. .08% Blood Alcohol Content: The current federal legal limit as well as most states. .05% Blood Alcohol Content: The limit for operating "under the influence" in many states(which may vary based on state laws). You may be charged with operating under the influence at any point. It is at the discretion of the enforcement officer based on their perception of how you are functioning as a boat operator.If you think operating a boat under the influence of alcohol is safer than drinking and driving a car, you could be dead wrong. Alcohol or drug use affects your ability to function in three critical ways. Your balance, judgment and reaction time are affected almost immediately after you start using drugs or alcohol.Balance - Alcohol and drugs can have an effect on your balance which can be critical on a boat; falling overboard and drowning accounts for at least 1 in 4 boating fatalities. When you are "tipsy", the unstable, moving platform of the boat can easily cause you to fall overboard.Reaction Time - Additionally, drinking alcohol can lessen coordination, skew judgment and interfere with decision-making ability. In the event of a fall overboard, it can increase the danger of cardiac arrest.Alcohol also reduces your body's ability to protect you against the cold water. With alcohol in your blood, the numbing effects of cold water occur much faster than when you are sober. Within minutes, you may not be able to call for help, swim to a float or reach the safety of the boat.

How They Work

PWCs are designed to be righted easily. Don't abandon your vessel if you fall off and it overturns. Simply turn it back in the direction marked on the decal at the rear of your craft or as indicated in the user's manual. Righting your craft improperly may make it more difficult than necessary to re-board, and you could cause internal damage to your PWC. To re-board your PWC, approach it from the rear, pull yourself up into a kneeling position, take your seat, reattach your engine cut-off lanyard, and start it up. Don't forget to re-attach that cut-off lanyard! This sounds easier than it is - it is often quite difficult to re-board a PWC, especially in rough water or when fatigued.Practice boarding your PWC in a calm, shallow area with your friends or family. If you have difficulty getting back on a PWC from the water, you should avoid using your PWC in areas where there is a strong current or high waves. There are also ladders available to help you climb back on, definitely a worthwhile investment.When operating a PWC, keep clear of shallow water (less than 2 feet deep), beds of sea grass or other vegetation. Since a PWC sucks water in to power its water jet, it is best not to operate in these waters. This will help keep dirt and debris from fouling the impeller, which could lead to power loss or damage to your PWC.Nearly all PWCs have an automatic engine cut-off lanyard. This lanyard must be attached to the operator's wrist or life jacket at all times to stop the engine if the operator falls off. This will also prevent the PWC from going far from a driver who has fallen off.

PWC Jet Drives

PWCs are operated by inboard gasoline engines that drive a jet water pump. Water is taken in through a water pick-up on the bottom of the PWC, drawn into an internal propeller (an impeller) that creates a jet of high pressure water which exits through a nozzle on the back of the PWC.Boats have no brakes, and neither do PWCs. On some models, there is a moveable "gate" that can be dropped over the nozzle to provide reverse thrust. Be careful, though, this was not designed to stop a PWC and jumping into reverse at high speeds may cause the bow to dive throwing the operator over the handlebars! However, some newer models feature a modified reverse bucket that has proven to be effective for slowing the craft significantly. Still, the PWC glides with momentum and definitely does not stop on a dime - do not be fooled into thinking these are actual "brakes."PWCs are built for quick, sharp turns, tight-radius circling, and rapid acceleration. However, they are only truly maneuverable with the throttle engaged - TO MAINTAIN STEERAGE, YOU MUST APPLY THROTTLE! The best way to avoid hitting an object is NOT to slow down, rather, you should apply throttle and steer away to avoid impact.

PWC Overview

Personal Water Craft (PWC) account for more than 1/3 of new boat sales annually. There are more than 1.5 MILLION PWCs in use today! Did you know that a PWC is considered a boat? Many people don't, and think of them more as toys that require no training or knowledge of how they work. To start, think of the terms used for a boat - they will be the same for a PWC.Personal Water Craft (PWC) are considered by the Coast Guard to be Class A inboard motor vessels and as such must adhere to the same Coast Guard regulations and standards as any other powerboats in this category; they must have a fire extinguisher on board, and an appropriate sound signaling device such as a horn or athletic whistle (in most states). They are also required to display how many people you can safely carry, which may be found on a capacity decal on the craft and in the owners manual.PWCs may seat up to 4 people and are even capable of pulling a water skier, though there are many state restrictions about operating times of day. Remember, your PWC operator's manual will tell you the specifics of your boat, including tips on safe operation and which direction to roll it if it turns over.They must be registered with the state, and must also obey the Nautical Rules of the Road. Even though PWCs are considered to be boats, there are a few differences that you need to know. Virtually no PWCs have running lights as all manufacturers recommend that they only be used during daylight. In fact, most states ban the use of PWCs at night.All states require that life jackets be worn at all times while on a PWC regardless if you are an operator or passenger. Many states also regulate the operation of PWCs by prohibiting them from specified lakes and boating areas, or by time restrictions on their use. For example, most states restrict PWC operation to daytime hours only. States may also regulate speed limits, noise limits, and distance from other boats or objects that you may operate your PWC.

Following the Rules

Recreational boaters must operate according to the established navigation rules covered in this course. Yet, each year the U.S. Coast Guard statistics reveal that the most common violations are caused by excessive speed, not maintaining a proper lookout, or not following other established navigation rules.Now that you are familiar with "The Rules," go out and use them in passing, meeting, and crossing situations you find on the water. You may get many puzzled looks from inexperienced boaters with no training or testing.Remember, that you must do everything to avoid a collision. If a collision does occur, your proper use of the correct signals and appropriate actions may have helped to avoid potentially serious consequences.The navigation rules of the road contained in this course summarize basic navigation rules for which a boat operator is responsible. Additional and more in-depth rules apply regarding the various types of waterways and operation in relation to commercial vessels and other watercraft. It is the responsibility of a boat operator to know and follow all the navigation rules.For a complete listing of the navigation rules, refer to the document "Navigation Rules of the Road" published by the U.S. Coast Guard (COMDTINST 16672.2 Series) and available through the U.S. Government printing office or on the web at www.navcen.uscg.gov//pdf/navRules/navrules.pdf.

Rules and Regulations

Registration Requirement: Only a handful of states require paddlecraft be registered with the state agency. Some states require that the owner's name and address be permanently affixed to the craft in a noticeable location. These requirements allow state agencies to identify owners in the case of abandonment, separation, or theft.Auxiliary Power: If you affix a mechanical motor for propulsion of any type, your craft becomes a "motor boat" and vessel registration is mandatory in all 50 states. You must also comply with all legal requirements designated by the Coast Guard for craft of your length including mandatory safety equipment. Additional state and local regulations that pertain to motorboats, including speed limits and navigation rules will also apply.Restricted Areas: All paddlers must be mindful of federally mandated exclusion and security zones and keep a safe distance of 100 yards from all Navy vessels. On local lakes and rivers, you may encounter restricted areas around bridges, large dams and shore based facilities like power plants. Of course, obey all No Trespassing signs and warnings that rivers, lakes and other bodies of water are closed.Rules of the Road & Ship Traffic: If paddling in areas of motorboat traffic or near shipping channels, know what the buoy markers mean, especially in busy harbors where established "lanes of travel" exist. Consult charts or monitor channels 13 and 16 for communication. Remember, large boats have blind spots, can't maneuver as well, and take a long time to stop. When possible, pass astern of larger craft and wear bright noticeable colors - don't count on them seeing you !Paddlers may be required to comply with additional equipment regulations. Please consult with your state boating agency for specifics.

Regulatory Marks

Regulatory Marks - These are designed to assist boaters by informing them of special restrictions or dangers that they are approaching. Regulatory marks are white "can" buoys that have an orange shape on them. The mark will give either a warning or instructions on how to proceed. The shape determines what type of mark it is. A square or rectangular shape is used for conveying instructions. An open diamond shape signifies danger. A diamond with a cross in it signifies an exclusion area that you may not enter. A circle indicates an upcoming operating restriction, such as a speed limit.

Collision avoidance rules

Rules apply to vessels in all conditions of visibility. Collision avoidance rules are the same at night or in fog as they are during a bright sunny day. Every vessel must maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing at all times. Operator inattention and not having an adequate look-out are a leading cause of accidents each year. Every vessel shall use all available means appropriate for the conditions to determine if a risk of collision exists; this includes lights and binoculars if available. Every vessel must proceed at a safe speed at all times. Several factors should be considered when determining safe speed including the state of visibility, traffic volume, wind, sea current, the proximity of navigational hazards and your vessel's maneuverability with special reference to stopping distance and turning ability. You should even take into consideration the depth of the water and proceed at a safe speed in relation to your boat's draft. At night, consider the presence of background lights such as those from shore. The Rules specifically require that any action must be taken to avoid collision. Changes in course or speed should be readily apparent to the other vessel. You should avoid last-second changes in course and a small series of changes. Change direction early, and make a large turn. While you are getting out of the way of one vessel, you must not get in the way of another. Finally, you may deviate from the navigation rules if it is absolutely necessary to avoid a collision.

Shipping Lane Awareness

Shipping lanes in an area are identified on nautical charts. Avoid the commercial shipping traffic lanes by as wide a margin as possible. Always give commercial traffic the right of way. Cross the lanes at 90 degrees or as practical to the prevailing traffic. Always go astern of deep-draft traffic. Watch for ships under tow in the shipping lanes. Never cross ahead of a tug or between a tug and its tow. At night, know the light pattern that signifies a ship is either being towed or is towing another vessel like a barge. Know how far it takes a large ship to stop. Ships don't have brakes and it can take up to two miles to stop. Know the approximate view from a ship bridge and how small recreational vessels are often not seen. Know that in commercial ships in shipping lanes have right of way regardless of the type of your recreational vessel. A sailing vessel means any vessel under sail provided that propelling machinery, if fitted, is not being used. A sailing vessel is defined by law as motor vessel if it is fitted with an engine and the engine is engaged or idling. When the "rules of the road" refer to a "fishing vessel" the definition is exclusive for commercial fishing only and does not include charter fishing vessels. Never anchor in the shipping lanes for any reason. Know how to contact the ships bridge when necessary to communicate your position in relationship to the ship. Avoid using a cell phone for a distress call; VHF radio is monitored by nearby vessels who can assist.

What's Wrong With This Picture?

Shortly after she bought her 33' Egg Harbor, Terri Parrow, Vice President of Internet Operations at BoatUS, took an action photograph of the boat as it went zooming by near Solomon's Island, Maryland.The photo (right) turned out well, with a blue sky, puffy clouds, and lots of exciting spray.The more she studied the photograph, though, the more it seemed that something was wrong. Then it dawned on her that the ship's ensign--the flag on the stern--is flapping forward, toward the two people on the flying bridge, Aren't flags supposed to point aft?The canvas on the fly-bridge had just been added and when the flaps were closed exhaust from the boat's twin 340 hp gasoline engines was being sucked back into the cabin and onto the fly-bridge (called the "station wagon effect"). After seeing the photo, Terri made some changes.First, she cruises with the forward canvas flaps and hatch on the foredeck opened slightly to keep fresh air flowing throughout the fly-bridge and cabin. And she also replaced one of the boat's two CO detectors, which had been inoperable. These two simple changes have saved her a lot of potential headaches.

Preventing Falls Overboard

Slipping and Falling - Even in calm, dry weather, decks can be slippery - salt attracts moisture. If decks are plastic, wood, smooth or non-skid, always wear deck shoes for the best traction, especially when underway.Safety Equipment Failure - When equipment is undersized, old or worn, it can be worse than no equipment at all. Lifelines, harness-tethers and life jackets should be inspected regularly for wear and corrosion, as well as for the shock load of a crew member falling overboard and dragging in water.Engine Cut-Off Devices - A fall into the water is a serious event, especially if it is the operator. An unmanned boat could careen out of control and strike someone in its path. An engine cut-off device is a simple safety device that will stop the engine and prevent a moving propeller from injuring a person in the water. This device is typically attached to the operator with a wrist lanyard and is designed to stop the engine as soon as it is pulled out of position.Three Points of Contact - While onboard, you should always strive to have three points of contact with the boat - both feet planted and holding on with at least one hand. Or, if you are moving about, hold on with both hands to something firm, and take one step at a time. Having three points of contact assures that your body is positioned in such a way that the majority of your body is in contact with the boat, and you won't be set off-balance easily.Relieving Over the Side - One of the most common causes of COB and subsequently drowning is a crew member relieving himself over the side of the boat in a standing position. Avoid this disaster; go below and use the head.The Importance of COB Drills - Unfortunately, despite all preventive efforts, accidents still occur. The need for crew-overboard drills cannot be emphasized enough. Your entire crew should practice the maneuver until recovery is second nature. Practice often, first with a floating cushion, then with a swimmer and another boat standing by. These drills can often make the difference between a tragedy and a mishap on the water. Crew-Over-Board procedures should be practiced frequently over the course of the boating season. Doing so may save someone's life - even your own!

Drugs and Decisions on the water

Some Sobering Facts About half of all reported boating accidents involve drugs or alcohol. Annual Coast Guard statistics indicate there are nearly 5,000 recreational boating accidents reported, resulting in approximately $50 million dollars of damage. Each year boating accidents claim hundreds of lives. The Coast Guard and the U.S. Congress recognize drugs and alcohol as a significant problem on the water. Stressors commonly affecting helmsmen and passengers make drinking or drug use while boating even more dangerous than drinking and driving.Research shows that four hours of exposure to the common physical stressors of boating produces a kind of fatigue, known as "boater's hypnosis," which slows reaction time almost as much as if you were legally drunk. These stressors include: Noise Vibration Sun Glare Wind Waves

Rescue Tips

Stop the boat's forward progress! Every second that you move away from the COB will make it harder for you to get back to them. Get flotation to the person. A Lifesling will help keep the swimmer afloat and help you get them into the boat. Take a head count to see who fell overboard. Knowing who fell overboard will help you plan the rescue. For instance, if the largest person on the boat fell overboard, it might take more equipment or people to bring that person back aboard. Knowing who you are going after will help you decide who needs to do what in the rescue. Assign roles to crewmembers. Have a lookout to keep the person in sight. Get the boat next to the COB. Approach the person from downwind placing them between your boat and the wind. This will increase your ability to maneuver, and will take less time to get the person to the boat. Do not approach from upwind. Placing your boat between the swimmer and the wind will give the person flatter seas, but you run the risk of floating over them, which will take away your ability to steer due to the danger of the propeller. Get the person on the boat. This can be very difficult, especially if the person is hurt, weak, or unconscious. Lifeslings, swim platforms, ladders, and brute strength are all methods of bringing someone on board. Practice all and pick the best one for your boat and crew. For further reading on COB rescue equipment, check out Foundation Findings articles. Avoid sending a rescuer into the water. This will just be another person that could potentially need rescue. If someone needs to go over to help a weak or injured person, make sure they have a life jacket on and a lifeline secured to them.

Paddling Basics

Taking a Class - Classes are a great way to get an introduction to the sport. A class will not only teach you the basics of boat handling, safety, and technique, it will also expose you to some of the widely available types of paddlecraft. Contact the American Canoe Association at www.americancanoe.org or call (800) 929-5162 for a class near you.Selecting a Boat - Paddlecraft come in all sorts of shapes and sizes - some can be paddled solo, while others are meant for tandem paddlers. Shape and size determines speed, comfort, stability, maneuverability and overall safety. Ideally, the safest boat is one that remains afloat, even when fully swamped.Know Rules and Regs - In some states, you must register your paddlecraft and some states require that you have certain equipment aboard. Regulations can vary so check with your state boating organization. Also, since you are not the only type of water craft out there, it is important that you know basic navigation rules and can recognize aids to navigation, especially white and red informational or regulatory markers that indicate known dangers.Be Prepared - Always be informed about the weather and the body of water in which you are boating. Be prepared to deal with weather changes, other boat traffic, low light conditions, minor medical emergencies and always have a way to contact help.Help Yourself - Before heading out, know your own limits, practice self rescue techniques, and always travel with a group - never travel alone. However, a good rule is to assume that no one else will be there to help. Always wear your PFD.Have Fun - When learning, always start close to shore, boat in shallow water and learn and go with a group. Never boat alone and expect to get wet. It's inevitable that you'll capsize at some point in your learning career - plus, its part of the fun. If you are prepared for that dunking, it won't startle you as much.

Diving Flags

The Alfa flag signifies restricted ability to maneuver and must be flown from the boat hosting divers or snorkelers.This is the only flag that is required by federal law to be flown by boats that have divers or snorkelers, and a rigid replica of it no less than 1 meter (3.3 feet) high must visible to other boats. At night, red over white over red 360 degree lights must be displayed.The second flag, called the Diver Down flag , is probably more recognizable to most boaters. This flag is flown from a float in the water where people are engaged in diving activities.It is not required by federal law to be displayed, however some states do require it. This flag will help other boaters know there are divers beneath the water who could emerge at any time.Other boats that see these flags displayed should give the area a wide berth. Laws vary from state to state on how much distance a boater must give an Alfa flag or diver down flag; in some states it could be 300 feet, in others 100 feet. While boating anywhere near a diver down flag, keep a lookout for bubbles breaking the surface which could indicate divers who have strayed away from their boat.

Personal Watercraft Code of Ethics

The PWC industry itself is a leader in responsible use of their products. The Personal Watercraft Industry Association has created a code of ethics for PWC users that really is valuable for all boaters. I will respect the rights of all users of the recreational waterways, both on public waters and on adjacent private property. I will be considerate at the launch ramps and docks. I will get on and off the ramps quickly and not delay others. I will follow the navigation rules of the road around all other vessels. I will learn and observe my state's rules on wake jumping. I will give all fishing, anchored, or drifting vessels plenty of room. I will always operate at headway speed in "no wake" zones. When approaching the shore, I will be especially aware of swimmers and other craft near the shore. I will not disturb wildlife. I will avoid areas posted for the protection of wildlife. I will not litter the shore side and I will be careful with my fuel. I realize that my travel speed should be determined by my equipment, ability, weather and wave conditions, and especially other vessel traffic. In case of emergency, I will volunteer assistance. I will not interfere with or harass others. I realize that people judge all personal watercraft by my actions. I will pay close attention to the noise my vessel may make and be aware of how others on boats and on shore react to that noise.

Rules Explained

The Rules are designed to tell you what to do when you operate your vessel near other vessels. The purpose of the Rules of the Road is to help you avoid an accident, not to establish responsibility or liability if you get into an accident. If you get into an accident, you can be held liable, even if you thought that you followed the Rules.Your primary obligation is to operate in a safe manner. Under the Rules, there is no "right-of-way" like there is on the road. For most situations, boats are called one of the following: Give-Way Vessel - If you are the give-way vessel, you must keep out of the way of the stand-on vessel. It is your responsibility to signal your intentions to the stand-on vessel, and you must take early and substantial action to safely maneuver around the stand-on vessel, keeping well clear of it and other boats. Stand-On Vessel - If you are the stand-on vessel, it is your responsibility to acknowledge the intended actions of the give-way vessel. You must also maintain your current course and speed until the give-way vessel passes, or you enter a dangerous situation - then you must take action to avoid a collision. Sadly, even with rules and regulations in place and the countless numbers of boaters having taken a boating safety course, the main cause of most fatal boating accidents is poor operator judgement and lack of situational awareness, according to U.S. Coast Guard statistics.

Avoiding Accidents

The best way to minimize damage from a grounding is, of course, NOT TO GROUND YOUR BOAT . If you or your vessel are in immediate danger, hail the Coast Guard over VHF Channel 16 using the standard Pan-Pan or Mayday call depending on the urgency of your situation. This may also bring nearby boaters to your aid.Here are a few tips to help make the topic of grounding not apply to you: Know where you are - Sounds easy enough, but things happen. A weather front or fog comes through making it difficult to see. You decide to travel to new places. Many things can put your boat where it doesn't belong. Having an UP TO DATE chart and compass, a navigation system such as a GPS, and a good dose of common sense will help you avoid running your boat aground. Be observant - Part of knowing where you are is to observe the waters that you are on. Do the passing buoys match the ones on the chart? Is the tide high or low? Does your crew know what to look for and what to avoid? Be smart - The key to avoiding any unpleasant situation in life is to be careful and to be prepared. When you are on your boat, always operate in a manner that is safe for the conditions you are encountering. If you are in a new area, slow down. It will give you time to orient yourself, and it will give you time to react. Best of all, hitting something at low speed is usually less damaging than hitting something at high speed. Get as much information as you can about where you are going. What's the weather like? What are the water conditions? Will there be many boats on the water with you? Knowledge is power - and safety.

Why Is Boating Education So Important?

The vast majority of sportsmen who have died in boating accidents were not wearing a life jacket and were on boats less than 16 feet long. Compared with the general boating fatality population, sportsmen were far more likely to have not worn a life jacket than all other boaters - a difference that might have saved their lives. Consider these statistics: One out of three people (34%) who died on the water did so while fishing, hunting or on the way to fish and hunt. 47% of sportsmen did not even have a life jacket on board. 70% of hunters who died in boating accidents fell overboard as a result of their boat being improperly loaded, or due to moving around the boat unsafely According to the National Rifle Association , more hunters die each year from water-related accidents than from gunshot wounds. Boats under 16 feet often have flat bottoms or semi-v hulls and are known for their instability. It's no surprise then that 50% of hunting and fishing accidents on the water are boats capsizing, with falls overboard flooding and swamping as the other primary types of accidents. Hunters and anglers should take precautions in small boats, like correctly loading the boat and using caution while moving about the boat and landing fish or fowl. Above all, a sportsman should wear his life jacket. The U.S. Coast Guard and your state boating agency can provide additional helpful boating safety rules and practices for your area.

Dams

There are many concerns when it comes to boating near a dam. Low-head dams in particular hold many dangers, and while they may be fairly safe at low water, they can become very dangerous when water levels rise. As water flows over the edge of the dam it creates a turbulent current, sometimes called a "backwash" or "boil" or "hydraulic", that can be impossible to escape should you fall into one. These hydraulics can be strong enough to even pull your boat under. Dam spillways create an undertow that can swamp your boat and pin you under- water. Many spillways are marked with buoy lines that mark the danger area so make sure to be on the lookout for them. From upstream, low-head dams may not be visible, so check your chart, and pay attention to any buoys or markers that may be in the water. Above the dam, you have hydroelectric intake tubes, water gates that can have large amounts of debris trapped in front of them, and low- head dams that can be difficult to see until you are on top of them. The best course of action when cruising a new area is to check your map or chart for dams, especially low-head dams, and steer clear!

Responsibilities Between Vessels

There is an order that can be used to determine responsibilities for vessels of different types. Study this list, as it is important to understand it thoroughly. The lower-most vessel on the list is the give way vessel, and must stay out of the way of vessels that are higher on the list:A Vessel Being Overtaken Is Top Priority In addition, power-driven vessels underway shall keep out of the way of: Vessels not under command - a rare situation where nobody is in control of the vessel. Vessels restricted in their ability to maneuver - usually very large vessels that can't stop or change course easily. Vessels constrained by draft - those that cannot deviate from course or a marked channel. Fishing vessels engaged in fishing - with commercial gear deployed such as large nets. Sailing vessels - a vessel under sail alone. If it has a motor, and it is engaged, it is considered a power driven vessel. Power driven vessels - any vessel propelled by machinery. Sailboats are powerboats if the motor is in gear.

Starboard and Port Side Numbered Aids

These Nav Aids are numbered with odd numbers, are green in color, and may be lighted (will have a green light). Port side marks are located on the left side of the waterway as you travel upstream, and the buoy numbers will increase as you head upstream. (Chart depictions are shown next to the marks) Port-Side Buoys have a cylindrical above-water appearance, like a can or drum floating on its axis. Commonly referred to as "CAN" buoys. Beacons - Port side beacons have square marks attached to them, with two shades of color and a reflective border.Starboard aids are red in color, evenly numbered , and will be on your right side as you travel upstream. Buoy numbers increase as you head upstream, and may have a red light. Starboard-side Buoys have an above-water appearance like that of a cylinder topped with a cone, pointed end up. The cone may come to a point or be slightly rounded. Commonly referred to as "NUN" buoys. Starboard-side Beacons have triangular marks attached to them, with two shades of color and a reflective border.

Grouding

Two kinds of boaters exist, those who have run aground and those who won't admit to it. Fortunately, grounding is more often a minor inconvenience than a true danger. Keeping a lookout at all times and consulting the nautical charts for your area are two of the best ways to prevent running aground. Here's what to do if you do get stuck in the mud.Don't Panic, Assess the Situation - Panicking won't help any grounding situation, and hasty reactions can end up causing further harm to your boat and crew. While backing off is usually the skipper's first instinct, it may not be the best solution.First things first, make sure everyone is wearing their life jacket. Then check for leaks, damage and injuries, and then set the anchor. Try to place the anchor as far from the boat as you can; use your dinghy or tender if you have one. Anchoring helps keep the boat from being driven further aground and may also provide a means of pulling you free, if you can "kedge" or pull the boat towards the anchor. Waves, the tide, and wakes from other boats may lift your boat.Then, check your chart for to see if you can figure out what you've hit and tide tables to determine the next high tide. Waiting for high tide may be a simple solution to free your boat but if you were traveling slowly, chances are good that you've just touched bottom lightly.Soft Grounding - May be described as any grounding from which you can free your own boat, even if it takes a great deal of time, wind, wave, or tide action to help. Most soft groundings do not involve major damage or result in leaks.Hard Grounding - Striking an object such as a piling, reef, or rocks can destroy your boat, and lead to injury or death. If you find yourself hard aground, the best thing you can do is call for help and do what you can to stop leaks. If the boat is in danger of sinking or lives are at risk, call the Coast Guard on VHF Channel 16.

Nav-aid basics

Unlike the roads and highways that we drive on, the waterways we go boating on do not have road signs that tell us our location, the route or distance to a destination, or of hazards along the way. Instead, the waterways have Aids to Navigation ( ATONs ), which are the man-made objects used by mariners to determine position or a safe course.The term "aids to navigation" includes buoys, day beacons, lights, lightships, lighthouses, radio beacons, fog signals, marks and other devices used to provide "street" signs on the water. ATONs include all the visible, audible and electronic symbols that are established by government and private authorities.The Coast Guard is the agency responsible for maintaining aids to navigation on U.S. waters that are under federal jurisdiction or that serve the needs of the U.S. Armed Forces. On bodies of water wholly within the boundaries of a single state, and not navigable to the sea, the Coast Guard grants the state responsibility for establishing and maintaining aids to navigation. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for many of the canals, dams, locks, and other man-made waterways in the country. The Corps also is responsible for the regulation of mooring buoys in all navigable U.S. Waters.The individual Coast Guard districts also may grant permission to private groups and citizens to place "Private" Aids to Navigation. These aids allow individuals or organizations the ability to mark privately maintained channels, zones or waterways. These aids must be pre-approved, and must be maintained by the individual or organization.

Dealing with Fires

We know that throwing water on a stove-top grease fire will spread the burning grease elsewhere. Not all fires should be treated alike. The source and location of a fire will determine which extinguishing agent should be used and this begins with an understanding of how fires are classified: Class A - combustible solid materials: paper, wood, cloth, rubber, and many plastics including fiberglass reinforced plastic of decks and hulls. Class B - flammable liquids: stove alcohol, grease, gasoline, diesel, kerosene, oil, oil based paint, teak oil, paint thinners, acetone, varnishes, and flammable gases or fumes. Class C - energized electrical equipment. Class C fires are identified for their potential to electrocute or shock personnel if water-based extinguishing agents, which conduct electricity, are applied. Turning off the electricity will change the status of a Class C fire to a Class A and/or B fire. Class A, B, and C categories are not subdivided any further, so it may be easier to think of them as (A) solids, (B) liquids, and (C) electrical fires ; there's no need to waste time distinguishing between alcohol or kerosene when your stove's on fire. All fire extinguishers are rated according to the extinguishing agent's effectiveness in controlling one or more classes of fire. ABC-rated extinguishers, commonly called multi-purpose or tri-class extinguishers, are capable of fighting all three classes of fire. Numbers preceding the letters (on portable units only) indicate an agent's relative effectiveness in extinguishing that particular class of fire. For instance, a 10 BC dry chemical extinguisher is twice as effective in putting out a fire as a 5 BC unit.

Taking Co Detectors Seriously

Whenever a CO detector sounds it should be investigated immediately. CO that drifts in and out of a cabin can be dangerous, since the effects of CO are cumulative and can build up gradually in a person's bloodstream over hours or even days before it reaches critical levels.This is true even if when the person breathes fresh air periodically; the CO remains in the bloodstream. How quickly the CO builds up is a factor of the concentration of the gas being inhaled (measured in parts per million [PPM]) and the duration of the exposure. The half-life of CO is approximately five hours, which means that it takes five hours for the level of CO in the blood to drop to half of its level when exposure was terminated.There is also some recent research that indicates the effects of CO poisoning are long-lasting and may remain in the body's cellular tissues for some time. In one study, researchers followed 96 victims for one year after their exposure, and found over 25% showed evidence of brain damage 12 months later. These long-term CO injuries can include apathy, memory loss, inattention, and depression.

Rules of the Road

Whenever you meet another boat it's like approaching an unmarked intersection in your car. Knowing a few simple rules will help you avoid a collision. Just as drivers must know what to do when approaching a four way stop on the road, boaters must know what to do when approaching another boat on the water.Because there are so many different types of boats, boating activities and styles of boating, it is important to know what to expect when you come upon another vessel.The term "vessel" includes anything that floats on the water that is used, or is capable of being used as a means of transportation including stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, sail boards, kite boards and floating rafts. The Navigation Rules distinguish one vessel from another by both its design, and by its actions. This section covers maneuvering rules only.The Navigations Rules are published by the U. S. Government Printing Office, and are available in any boating supply store. Every boat owner should have a copy, but it is mandatory that a copy be kept aboard all vessels over 12 meters (39.4 feet) in length.The Rules generally referenced in this course are Inland Rules, unless otherwise noted. There are small but important differences between Inland and International Rules depending on where you are operating your boat. It is your responsibility to know the Navigation Rules for your boating area.

Anchoring and Mooring

With so much investment riding on your anchor, your boat's anchoring system is no place to cut corners. Your choice of anchor depends on the size and type of your boat, keeping your areas weather conditions in mind.Boats with heavy displacements or superstructures that present a great deal of wind resistance need heavier gear. This also applies to cruising yachts that brave a wide variety of conditions and may sometimes have to anchor in open waters.Although not required by Federal Law, it is recommended you carry one anchor of sufficient size and strength to hold your boat for an extended period or in an emergency situation. An anchor may also be used as a means to pull you free if you are stuck by "kedging", pulling the boat toward the anchor. Additionally, an improperly anchored boat that becomes unsecured can cause property and environmental damage. Boats that slip from their anchor can drift into other boats, marinas, run aground or damage sensitive reefs and grasses. So, when you are thinking of buying an anchor invest in a bigger anchor so that you stay put!There are no specific anchors that will work for you in every situation, so if you have space carry two anchors--preferably of different types. Many people choose to carry a small anchor, or "lunch hook", and a larger working or storm anchor. The lunch hook is for use in calm weather and when the crew is monitoring the anchor. Working and storm anchors are useful at times when the crew is asleep or ashore, and during heavy weather when winds are 30 miles an hour and over.The general name for all of the equipment you need to anchor your boat is "ground tackle". This includes an anchor, chain, line and connecting elements. The anchor line, including chain, is called the rode .