Water Safety Course Chp. 6
What are the dangers of low-head dams?
(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.
PWC - a life jacket will...
...keep you afloat in an accident
PWC - the Throttle will not...
...stop the boat if you release it
PWC - the engine cut-off lanyard will...
...stop the engine if you fall off
What do you the different lights mean when entering a lock?
1 - A flashing red light means do not move forward, 2 - a green and amber light means proceed with caution, 3 - and an amber light means proceed under full control.
3 concerns for dams
1 - 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. 2 - 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. 3 - 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.
What are 3 things to be aware of when you're traveling waterways with locks?
1 - 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.) 2 - 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.) 3 - Watch the currents as you head upriver near a dam. (Currents can be very strong, especially when the lock or dam gates are open.)
What is the priority for types of boats entering a lock?
1 - Military craft, 2 - commercial passenger vessels, 3 - commercial tows, 4 - commercial fishing vessels, 5 - pleasure craft. (As a pleasure craft, you will always have the lowest priority for entering a lock. Even if you are the first to arrive, vessels with higher priority will be allowed into the lock before you.)
Inland waterways - what are some ways to identify hazards?
1 - Try to get a chart. 2 - See if there is a local broadcast or another system for notifying waterway users of unique or potentially dangerous conditions. 3 - Talk with people at the bait shop, the launch ramp, or the marina to see how the current is running after the rains, how low the water is because of the drought, etc. 4 - 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."
What are special rules of the road you need to follow to insure a safe and quick lock transit as you approach a lock?
1 - 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. 2 - 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.) 3 - When it is time to enter the lock, you will either hear horn blasts, or see a flashing green light.
What are 3 things that can prevent injuries from the prop?
1 - an engine cut-off lanyard. 2 - 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. 3 - Lastly, propeller rings, guards and baskets
What area 3 tips for snorkeling?
1 - practice snorkeling in a pool first. 2 - make an effort to look up every few moments to gauge your position and make sure you haven't strayed. 3 - wear bright colors or a bright life jacket or snorkeling vest to make yourself more visible.
What are some general recommendations as precautions against CO poisoning?
1 - that enclosed passenger spaces on your motorboat have a carbon monoxide detector 2 - do not allow anyone to sit on the rear swim step while the engine is running. 3 - do not allow anyone to drag themselves by the swim step behind a boat with an engine running. 4 - 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.
Strainer
A branch or downed tree that could trap a paddler.
Water Obstruction
A rock, stump, or other object that should be avoided.
10 Steps to water sports success - #7 (visibility)
A waterskier should hold a ski-tip up out of the water while waiting to be retrieved, and if necessary wave arms.
Paddlers & 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.
10 Steps to water sports success - #10 (pickup)
Always shut off the engine before allowing anyone to board the boat. Once they are safely onboard, retrieve the towline.
Spillway
An opening in a dam that may not be visible upstream.
What should anglers do while casting to maintain their balance?
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.
PWC - pre-ride inspection
Battery Controls Drain Plug Engine Fuel Hull Protection Safety Gear
What should you do when boarding a boat or moving around it? And why?
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.
What length should your tow rope be?
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.)
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.
Hydraulics
Deceiving reverse currents below spillways.
Don't ever do this when being towed/towing
Don't ever leave the boat running while a person is attempting to re-board Never use the engine or propeller as a step. 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.
What are 5 boating hazards (especially for paddlers)?
Fast Moving Water and High Water Low-Head Dams and Waterfalls (back currents -called hydraulics) Water Obstructions and Strainers Limited Visibility Cold Water
What are some caution announcements for boaters that might be issued by the Coast Guard?
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.
What is wildlife harrassment?
Harassment is defined as any action that may cause an animal to deviate from its normal behavior. It is illegal.
What should you have on the side of your boat when entering a lock?
Have bumpers 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.
How to you measure the concentration of CO (Carbon Monoxide)?
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.
What should hunters do while shooting from a boat?
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.
PWC Code of Ethics #7 (speed)
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.
PWC Code of Ethics #4 (speed)
I will always operate at headway speed in "no wake" zones.
PWC Code of Ethics #2 (ramps)
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.
PWC Code of Ethics #3 (other vessels)
I will give all fishing, anchored, or drifting vessels plenty of room.
PWC Code of Ethics #6 (litter)
I will not litter the shore side and I will be careful with my fuel.
PWC Code of Ethics #8 (noise)
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.
PWC Code of Ethics #1 (respect)
I will respect the rights of all users of the recreational waterways, both on public waters and on adjacent private property.
Paddlers - 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!
What does one long horn blast mean when entering a lock? Two long horn blasts?
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).
Paddlecraft: 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.
How should you load gear onto a boat?
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.
10 Steps to water sports success - #4 (traffic patterns)
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.
Where should you keep the center of gravity in a boat? What will piling gear high do to the center of gravity?
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.
How should weight be loaded in a boat?
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.
PWC - precautions to care for shallow areas and vegetation?
Limit riding in shallow water (but when it's necessary, stay at an idle speed. And avoid sea grass beds/vegetation exposed by low tides). Try to stay in main channels or the deeper areas of a lake or river.
How can you avoid tripping hazards on a boat?
Make sure everything on board is properly stowed to avoid tripping hazards as well as to avoid having gear shift around when underway.
10 Steps to water sports success - #1 (engine)
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.
10 Steps to water sports success - #3 (take off)
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.
What is the greatest challenge to recreational boating on rivers or any body of water?
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.
PWC - how to help prevent shoreline erosion?
Near the shore avoid high speeds which create large wakes and observe posted no-wake zones.
Final notes on bollards and lines in a 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.
Precautions to take when swimming or diving near boats
Never, ever swim in a marked channel, even if there are no boats around. Swimming in marinas should be avoided (boats/electrical cords/illegal dumping of holding tanks) Don't swim in areas where there are strong currents or undertow. Enter the water gradually, never dive. Never leave the boat's engine running while swimmers are in the water. (propellers/exhaust fumes) 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 there's an easy way to get back on your boat.
What is the the number one complaint about PWC use?
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.)
Low-head Dam
Often are invisible until you are too close to re-route.
Once in the boat, what should be avoided?
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.
Statistics for boaters and hunters
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.
Paddler Registration Requirements
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.
3 things about how PWCs work
PWCs are designed to be righted easily. Practice boarding your PWC in a calm, shallow area with your friends or family. When operating a PWC, keep clear of shallow water (less than 2 feet deep), beds of sea grass or other vegetation. Nearly all PWCs have an automatic engine cut-off lanyard.
Which side of the channel is generally the safest side to pass on river bends?
Passing oncoming traffic port to port (like passing cars) and staying to the right side of the channel is generally the safest.
What are two types of equipment do you need for in a lock?
Poles - have your crew equipped with poles to fend the boat off the walls or other boats. Strong lines - 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.)
PWC - what are steps you can take to prevent Fuel and Oil Pollution?
Refuel on land and clean up any spills. And, Check and clean your engine well away from shorelines.
Where is the water deeper on river bends?
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.
Where should a CO (Carbon Monoxide) detector be installed?
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.
Do lock systems use fixed lights or flashing lights?
Some systems may use fixed lights, but most use a flashing light system.
How to avoid a collision on PWC
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.
Paddling Basics
Take a Class Selecting a Boat (shape and size determines speed, comfort, stability, maneuverability and overall safety), Know Rules and Regs Be Prepared - about weather and the area Help Yourself - know your own limits, self rescue techniques, go with a group. Always wear your PFD. Have Fun - start close to shore, go with a group, never boat alone and expect to get wet.,
What flag that is required by federal law to be flown by boats that have divers or snorkelers?
The Alpha flag (signifies restricted ability to maneuver). This is the only flag that is required by federal law to be flown by boats that have divers or snorkelers. 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.
10 Steps to water sports success - #8 (retrieval)
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.
What is the half-life of CO? And what does that mean?
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.
Whether hunting or fishing, what is the most important thing to remember to do while in a boat?
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 sports success - #6 (when falling)
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.
10 Steps to water sports success - #5 (tow line)
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.
Are the same sound signals used for leaving a lock that where used when entering the lock?
The same signals are used to depart the lock, except that the horn signals are short blasts instead of long blasts.
What is the best way to avoid overloading a boat?
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.)
A personal watercraft (PWC) is considered a Type "A" motorboat, True/False
True
3 guidelines for vessels near water sports
Try to stay at least 100 feet away from each side of a person engaged in water sports. 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.
10 Steps to water sports success - #2 (signal)
Wait for the participant to signal that he or she is ready to go. You can use verbal or hand signals.
What to do when being towed/towing...
Wear the right life jacket Have an observer on board Discuss ahead of time how you intend to pick up a person in the water Be familiar with the area Stay clear of beaches and swimming areas, and do not purposely spray other boats or swimmers. Go over hand signals with the participant before he or she is in the water. Give a wide berth to fishermen and slower moving vessels
10 Steps to water sports success - #9 (approach)
When approaching a person in the water, always keep them in view and on the operator's side of the boat.
PWC Code of Ethics #5 (shore)
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.
Special Activities, Restrictions & Requirements:
When towing a person, the participant must wear a properly fitting U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD. sunset and sunrise - no Waterskiing A boat (or PWC) used for water skiing must have an operator and an observer (12 or older). The towing boat must stay at least 100 feet from shore, bridges, piers, people in the water and other passing boats. Vessels engaged in diving activity must display rigid replica of a blue and white alfa flag in federal and international waters. This does not replace the red and white diver's flag to indicate divers are in the water. If a PWC is equipped with an emergency engine cut off lanyard, it should be properly attached to the operator during operation.
Is a Personal Water Craft (PWC) considered a boat?
Yes
What should you do if you see diving/snorkeling flags displayed from a boat?
You should give the area a wide berth. Laws vary from 100 to 300 feet from state to state on how much distance a boater must give an Alpha flag or diver down flag. (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.)
PWC safety gear
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.
What are some natural hazards to watch out for on rivers?
bars and shoals, submerged rocks, floating debris (which may accumulate into partial dams called "strainers"), and strong tides and currents.
What is the best course of action when cruising a new area in regards to dams?
check your map or chart for dams, especially low-head dams, and steer clear!
PWC - Footwear will...
give you added traction and grip
What are the 3 symptoms of CO poisoning?
headaches, drowsiness, and nausea
PWC - a wetsuit will...
keep you warm if operating in cold water
What are some hazards to watch out for on rivers?
low-head dams, bridges with restricted clearances, over-head power lines, and even buoys that are submerged or moved by a fast moving current.
Loading the boat - first, where should you step into the boat?
step gently into the center of boat; avoid stepping on the sides or the seats, or jumping onboard.
What is the leading cause of PWC accidents?
striking an object (usually another PWC)
What flag for divers or snorkelers is not required by federal law to be displayed, however some states do require it?
the Diver Down flag . This flag is flown from a float in the water. This flag will help other boaters know there are divers beneath the water who could emerge at any time.
What is one thing that Carbon Monoxide reports all had in common?
the lack of a CO detector is the only thing that all of them had in common
What are to essential pieces of equipment for divers (besides diving gear)?
two identifying flags: the blue and white Alpha flag and red and white diver down flag.
