While most veteran skippers know and follow safe procedures and techniques of navigation, the navigator of recreation may be advisable for occasional review. Here are some rules of the road and a little information on safety of navigation by courtesy of the U.S. Coast Guard.
* When two boats approach each other head, both must alter its course to the right to avoid a collision. If two boats are safe to the left of each other, there is no change in direction is needed.
* When two motor boats are crossing, the vessel has the other on its starboard (right) has the responsibility to be clear.
* Non-motorized boats (canoes, sailboats, etc.) have the potential right of way, except when the boat without motor boat overtaking or passing.
* A vessel being overtaken by another vessel traveling in the same direction to maintain speed and course. The transition from craft to maintain a sufficient distance to avoid collision or endangering the other boat in the wake of the boat.
* When an accident occurs navigation, boats and individuals involved must remain on the scene, as a road vehicle accident, and the exchange of information.
* Most of the deaths the result of sailors capsizing and falling overboard. In a small boat, resist the urge to get up. If you do move, keep your weight low and balanced in the center of the boat.
* Approved personal flotation devices (PFDs) or life jackets are now stylish, comfortable and affordable and practical. Models for all ages and various boating activities are available.
* Collisions between ships or with an object not just happen. Rather, they are typically the result of inattention, fatigue or lack of knowledge on navigation procedures.
* Each of these factors are exacerbated when alcohol is involved. In fact, alcohol is implicated in up to half of the accidents of navigation. Even moderate amounts of alcohol adversely affects bodily functions such as balance, coordination, vision and hearing.
The combined effects of alcohol with cold water can speed the onset of hypothermia (decreased body temperature) and can cause even good swimmers to drown. Appoint an expert, not drinking for the boat operator in the waters where alcohol is allowed on the boats.
* While most boaters regarding large dams, many, especially those in smaller vessels such as canoes, tend to minimize the hazards of dams lowhead – structure 10 feet high or less.
During periods of high water created by the backwash water pouring over the dam creates a dangerous cycle. Objects – including people wearing PFDs – are taken to the bottom of the current, released to the surface, sucked back into the face of the dam and pushed back to the downside.
* Keep an eye on the time, especially in large, surface water bodies.
* If someone is in trouble in the water, use the basic rescue methods first, such as the launch of a floating object to the victim. Personally entering the water only as a last resort and then take you to a floating object.
* Before leaving for a fishing trip or boating, to provide someone with specific details of where you are going and when you will return. This will help the search if necessary.
* For information on navigation and water safety, call (800) 336-BOAT (2628).