70
California Boating
A Course for Safe Boating
Chapter 3
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Vessel Operation
Choose your boat carefully
You should select a boat by how you plan to use it. For example, a flat-
bottomed boat is not safe on the ocean, and boats with a deep vee hull will
have difficulty navigating in shallow water. Choose a boat according to:
The intended boating activities or special purposes.
The bodies of water where you’ll operate the boat.
Your skill level.
Powerboats come in many types. Utility or jon boats are widely used for
fishing and hunting in protected waters. Runabouts are commonly used for
fishing, water skiing and cruising. Cruisers offer more room and special
features, such as cuddy cabins, berths, heads and galleys. Personal watercraft
(PWC) are for recreation or light duty.
Before leaving the dock, start the engine while you review your
pre-departure checklist of your boat and its safety gear. This will give
the engine time to warm up.
Check
the weather reports. Look for any threatening clouds such as
thunderheads or approaching fronts.
Check
the boat, engine and fuel lines for leaks.
Check
the battery, motor and propeller to make sure they work properly.
Check
the fire extinguishers, ventilation system and other safety equipment
to make sure all of them are working properly.
Check
the oil and fuel levels. Plan on using no more than one-third of the
fuel to reach your destination. To be safe, use one-third of the fuel going
out, one-third to return and keep one-third as a reserve.
Check
the first aid kit and all safety equipment including life jackets.
Check
the anchor and line.
Check
the radio to make sure it’s working.
Check
for your backup power source (oars, paddles, or a motor) and
bailing equipment.
Check
that your float plan is filed with the local marina and a friend or
relative. Remember to notify them when you return.
If the trip is taking you offshore or to a remote region:
Take along tools and spare engine parts. Useful tools include wrenches,
screwdrivers, duct tape, a hammer and vise grips. Spare parts include spark
plugs, a fuel pump, fuel filter for diesel engines, lubricant, sheer pins and
drive belts.
Have a back-up VHF radio and/or a cellular phone.
Bring foul-weather clothing and survival suits in cold-water regions.
WEBSITE
For more information about courtesy
vessel examinations, visit:
www.
safetyseal.netTAKE NOTE
When weather reports indicate
the possibility of thunderstorms,
be on the lookout for the
formation of cumulus clouds
growing larger—the first indicator
of an approaching storm.
DID YOU KNOW?
You can receive a free, vessel safety
check without risk or obligation.
Specially trained members of the
Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S.
Power Squadrons provide this
service for recreational boats.