SECTION : BOATING SAFETY
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Capsizing and Swamping
A boat may capsize or swamp when least expected. Formulate a plan in advance
on what to do if it should happen. Keep in mind the following guidelines:
• Try to turn the engine OFF to prevent damage.
• If others were on board, try to locate them, make sure they are
conscious and that they can swim.
• Immersion in water speeds the loss of body heat and can lead
to hypothermia. This is the abnormal lowering of internal body
temperature.
If a leak is discovered, immediately determine the cause. A collision with
an underwater object could cause the hull to develop a leak. A loose fitting
hose clamp on a piece of equipment could cause a leak. Try to repair
the leak if possible. If a leak is threatening the safety of you and your
passengers, call or signal for assistance.
Staying Afloat
• Remain calm. Do not thrash about or try to remove clothing or footwear.
This leads to exhaustion and increases the loss of air that may keep
you afloat.
• Keep your lifejacket (PFD) on.
• Keep your knees bent.
• Float on your back and paddle slowly to safety.
Collisions
If a collision occurs, immediately account for all passengers. Assess the hull
for damage and activate the bilge pumps to reduce any water intake. Try to
operate the boat to keep the damaged area above water. If necessary, call
or signal for assistance.
Grounding
In the event you run aground, assess the situation before proceeding.
Immediately stop any water from entering the boat. Inspect the rudder and
rudder control system, the hull, propeller and strut for damage. Maneuver
the boat to safe water only if the hull and all operating systems are in
satisfactory operating condition. Otherwise, call or signal for assistance.
Water Rescue (Man Overboard)
Immediately react to a person who has fallen overboard. Keep the victim
constantly in your sight. Safely return to the victim as soon as possible.
Throw the person a life preserver. Turn off the engine and help the person
into the boat if someone is thrown or washed overboard. It may be possible
to revive a drowning victim who has been under water for some time and
shows no sign of life. Start CPR immediately and get the victim to a hospital
as quickly as possible.
Reporting Accidents
Boat operators are required by law to file a Boating Accident report with
their state boating law enforcement agency or local authority when their
boat is involved in certain boating accidents. A boating accident must be
reported if there is a loss or probable loss of life, personal injury requiring
medical attention, damage exceeding $500, or there is a complete loss of
the boat. If any of these conditions arise, seek further assistance from local
law enforcement personnel.
Medical Emergency
Be prepared in the event of an emergency. Know how to use your first aid
kit. Be aware of any special medical conditions of your passengers.
Operation Failure
If you experience a propulsion, steering or control failure, immediately turn
OFF the engine. Try to determine the failure and repair, if qualified to do so.
Otherwise, call or signal for assistance.
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