2013 New York Safe Boating Textbook - (Page 35)
BEST BOATING PRACTICES
Your Passengers
Good communication with your passengers is critical, and letting your passengers know your rules, including how to behave in an emergency, can help prevent some accidents from occurring. Before you allow your passengers on your boat, explain what they can do, and what they shouldn’t do, during your cruise. Before you leave the dock, let them know where the safety equipment is located. Be sure they know how to wear a PFD, and how to operate a fire extinguisher and radio. Check to see if any of your passengers know any first aid procedures. Well-informed passengers make a safe voyage more likely, and are the first line of defense in an emergency! NEVER ALLOW PASSENGERS TO RIDE ON THE BOW, SEAT BACKS OR GUNWALES—PASSENGERS DOING SO RISK FALLING OVERBOARD, AND OPERATORS WHO PERMIT IT RISK BEING CITED FOR RECKLESS OPERATION, A MISDEMEANOR!
Choosing the Right Trailer
You must get the right trailer for your boat. Your boat’s length, beam and weight will dictate the size of the trailer you need. The trailer must be able to support the entire length of your boat, including the transom. It also must be able to support the hull uniformly. When shopping for a trailer, also consider how you intend to use the trailer. If you will use the trailer mostly for long-term storage of your boat, a bunk trailer may be the best option. On the other hand, roller trailers are best for launching and retrieving your boat, particularly on shallow ramps. The data plate or sticker, usually located on the tongue of the trailer, will display the trailer’s load capacity and what size tires the trailer uses. Make sure that the combined weight of the boat, motor and equipment never exceeds the rated trailer capacity. Most people forget to include the weight of the “extra” gear that is placed in the boat when they leave the house. Don’t forget to include the weight of gear like bikes, luggage or a tent when you calculate the weight your trailer will carry. All trailers with1000 pounds or more of gross weight will be equipped with brakes. Most brakes today are the “surge” type which activate when the tow vehicle decelerates. Inspect your boat trailer brakes regularly to ensure proper operation. Trailer brake failure in a sudden or unexpected stop will create a dangerous situation, if not an accident. Have your mechanic check your brakes at least once a year at the start of the season. Get a spare wheel and the tools to change a flat tire for your trailer. Spare wheels can be secured to a trailer with special hardware. Carriers come in models for various tire types and in different mounting options. Use a cover to protect the spare from the elements.
Operator’s Duties
As the skipper, you are responsible for the safety and wellbeing of your passengers, and for the safe operation of your boat. You can uphold your responsibilities by adhering to this Top Ten List of Operator’s Duties: 1. 1. 2. 2. 3. 3. Know and abide by the rules of the road. Exercise courtesy and common sense. Be prudent with fuel—always keep 1/3 of your fuel in reserve. Know how your boat handles—be aware of your stopping distance, turning radius, and optimal cruising speed. Know your boat’s position and course. Know the meaning of all buoys or other navigation markers. Listen to local weather broadcasts and watch for changing weather conditions. Know the location of the nearest safe harbor–be prepared to head there if conditions change. Never take unnecessary risks that may endanger life, limb or property. Supervise your passengers! Require them to remain seated with arms and legs in the boat while it is in motion. Encourage everyone to wear a PFD, especially in rough conditions, and be sure that children and non-swimmers do so.
4. 4. 5. 5. 6. 6.
7. 7. 8. 8. 9. 9.
10. 10.
Trailering
There is an incredible array of boating options in New York State, and if you have a boat trailer, you can experience all of them. New York State has developed over 500 launch sites at many lakes, state parks, canals, and other waterways. Using a trailer to haul your boat to different waterways offers opportunities for new adventure and exploration.
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Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of 2013 New York Safe Boating Textbook
2013 New York Safe Boating Textbook
Contents
Introduction
Boats and Motors
Registration of Boats
Equipment
Fueling and Ventilation
Safe Loading and Powering
Preparation for Getting Underway
The Marine Environment
Rules of the Road
Boat Operations
Seamanship
Navigation
Personal Watercraft
Boating Related Activities
Accidents and Emergencies
Frequently Asked Questions
Chapter Review Questions Answers
2013 New York Safe Boating Textbook
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