boating safety study guide
A recreational vessel is approaching a US Naval vessel. At what distance from the US Naval vessel must the recreational vessel slow to minimum speed?
500 yards
If a person operates a boat in Alabama while intoxicated, then he or she has to submit to?
A test of their blood alcohol concentration
What sound producing device is required when boating on Alabama water in an 18-foot powerboat?
A whistle, a horn or another sound device
According to Alabama law, what equipment is required when a vessel (other than a PWC) is towing a skier and does not have a capable observer on board in addition to the operator?
A wide angle rearview mirror
What should a vessel operator do to make sure everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency?
Conduct an emergency drill with passengers
When two vessels are operating in the same general area, who is responsible for avoiding a collision?
The operators of both vessels.
Everyone on board a vessel should understand basic safety practices. Who is responsible for ensuring this?
The vessel operator
What should a motorboat operator do when someone is being pulled into the boat from the water?
Turn off the engine
What should you do before fueling your boat?
Turn off the engine and close all windows, ports, doors, and other openings.
How can propeller strike accidents be avoided?
Turn off the engine when passengers are boardline
Where should your trailer be located while you prepare to launch your vessel?
Well away from the boat ramp.
What condition is a person at the greatest risk of developing hypothermia?
When immersed in cold water
When should a life jacker be discarded and replaced?
When it is slightly torn
When is a sailboat under sail the give way vessel when encountering a power driven vessel?
When the sailboat is overtaking the power driven vessel
How do you know when you are operating your vessel at a safe speed?
When you have enough time to avoid a collision.
What should the vessel operator tell everyone on board before departing?
Where to find the PFD's and visual distress signals
In Alabama, how far must a vessel stay from a diver down flag?
100 feet
According to Alabama law, during what hours is it legal to tow a person behind a boat on water skis or other device?
Between one before sunrise and one hour after sunset
In Alabama, what are the recommended hours for personal watercraft operation?
Between sunset and sunrise (daylight hours)
How should a vessel's registration number and validation decal be displayed?
Both sides of the bow of the boat
What should the operators of a PWC and a motorboat do when approaching head on?
Both vessels should turn to starboard or the right
What are three illegal operations of a PWC in Alabama?
Buzzing another vessel or person in the water, weaving through congested traffic at a high speed, and swerving at the last possible moment to avoid collision
What is one part of a regular vessel and engine maintenance program?
Checking the oil level before every outing.
What is the best way to find out about hazards on a local waterway?
Consult a nautical chart
What weather conditions provide a warning that dangerous weather is approaching?
Dark clouds and shifting winds
What is indicated by a WHITE marker with an ORANGE crossed diamond and black lettering?
Exclusion or keep out area, such as a dam
When must navigation lights be displayed?
From sunset to sunrise and when visibility is restricted
What is the best way to minimize the risk of drowning while boating?
Have everyone wear an appropriate life jacket at all times
What effect does alcohol have when you are operating a vessel?
Increases the likelihood of accidents
How should you approach the dock when docking your vessel?
Into the wind or current, whichever is stronger.
Why is carbon monoxide gas dangerous?
It is colors, odorless, and tasteless and can be fatal
What could happen if you anchor a boat from the stern?
It may cause the boat to swamp.
What should paddlers do to protect against capsizing their canoe or kayak?
Keep a low center of gravity and three points of contact
What should you do reduce the risk of falling overboard?
Keep centered in the boat
What is the maximum speed you can go in slow, no wake zone?
Less than 5 mph
What action may cause the loss of steering ability n a PWC?
Letting off the throttle control
What must an owner do before allowing others to operate his or her vessel?
Make sure they know how to operate it safely
What important safety information is found on a boat's capacity plate?
Maximum weight and/or number of people the boat can carry safety.
You have to report a boating accident to the Alabama Marine Police Division if the damage to your vessel?
More than $2,000
Where is the best place to store a fire extinguisher on a boat?
Mounted in an accessible location
How does the effect of alcohol consumed while boating compare to the effect on land?
Much greater effect while boating
What is an example of careless operation?
Not having enough personal flotation devices on board
According to Alabama law, what operators are required to have completed an approved boating course in order to operate a personal watercraft (PWC)?
Operators who are 12 years of age or older
What is most important when selecting the right PFD for a passenger?
Passenger's body weight and chest size
Visibility is restricted due to fog. What should the vessel operator do to avoid the risk of a collision?
Reduce speed to the minimum needed to stay on course
How can you prevent transporting nuisance species (plants or animals) with your vessel from one waterway to another?
Remove any zebra mussels you see before leaving the body of water
What should you do immediately if a boat motor catches on fire?
Shut off the feel supply, and try to put out the fire with an extinguisher
If your inboard/outboard boat runs aground, what action should take in addition to shifting the weight away from the point of impact?
Stop the engine and lift the outdrive
According to Alabama law, what age person who has boater safety certification may operate a personal watercraft without supervision?
Those at least 14 years of age
According to Alabama law, children of what age are required to wear a properly secured PFD while on a vessel unless the child is in a enclosed cabin?
Those under 8 years of age
Why should a vessel operator keep a proper lookout?
To avoid collisions.
What is the main purpose of the lateral system of RED and GREEN buoys and markers?
To mark the edges of safe water areas
What is the first action required of a boat operator who witness a boating accident?
To produce assistance
What is the main function of an ignition safety switch?
To shut off the engine if the operator is thrown overboard
What should you do if you fall overboard into cold water?
Try to rebound your boat, even if its swamped
What type of PFD will turn most unconscious persons face up in the water?
Type I
When boating on federally controlled waters in an 18-foot boat, what equipment are you legally required to have on board?
US Coast Guard approved visual distress signals
What determines if a speed is safe for your boat?
Visibility conditions
What should a vessel operator do to keep a proper lookout?
Watch for navigational hazards.
What should. anglers and hunters do when they are fishing or hunting from a boat?
Wear a life jacket at all times
