to a half mile or more to come to a complete stop. Never put yourself in a position where a vessel needs to execute an emergency maneuver in order to avoid running you down. When meeting any large vessel on the water, a little courtesy goes a long way. Speaking of large vessels and the water they displace, never haul or launch your boat at a ramp when these larger vessels are transiting. The large amounts of water they displace may cause a surge in the water level which may not only damage your property but may also endanger your life as well. The same rule holds for swimming. If you see a large vessel approaching, get out of the water. The suction effect caused by these large boats may pull you way out into the river. Absolutely never attempt to pass between a tug and its tow. The tow line may not be visible however it may just be below the surface ready to take up and become taut at any time. The force of a cable is easily capable of flipping or splitting your boat. Learn the signals displayed by these vessels and stay well clear of tugs, their tows and any cables. Aids to Navigation In New York State navigational aids are placed by either the State of New York or the federal government. The red and green markers indicate the right and left sides of the channel. Boaters should always remember the old adage, red right returning. This means that the red buoys mark the right side of the channel whenever we are returning from sea or proceeding toward the head of navigation The reverse would be true when heading back to the sea. Always remember to pass safely between the red and green buoys in order to ensure safe water, deep enough to permit navigation. In addition you may see several regulatory markers which designate direction, speed, danger, etc. These aids are always white with bright orange stripes and legends emblazoned upon the buoy. Information & Regulatory Markers BOATS KEEP OUT! DANGER! CAUTION! 34 INFORMATION