No matter where you are in the US, standardized symbols and codes keep boat operators safe and confident in their ability to navigate and communicate effectively. “Port” and “starboard” are two terms that are used across the nation to refer to the left and right sides of a boat, respectively. Remembering the difference between port … Read more ›
Every year, over 3 million Americans go water skiing. This popular water sport has existed for over 100 years and is still going strong. Whether you’re enjoying recreational water skiing or plan to compete, you’ll need to learn the basic hand signals that allow skiers and boat operators to communicate. 13 Water skiing hand signals … Read more ›
Every year, nearly forty percent of Americans who go boating also participate in some form of towed watersport. Waterskiing and wakeboarding take some practice to master, both for the person being towed and the boat operator. Tubing is easier, as long as you use the right gear. Regardless of your age or level of experience, … Read more ›
Federal Law specifies that you have to file an accident report following many types of recreational boating accidents. Not filing a required report could result in large fines or even jail time, so it’s a task that you need to take seriously! Types of boat accidents that need to be reported The United States Coast … Read more ›
Running aground occurs when a vessel touches the bottom in a shallow area of a pond, river, lake, or sea, and becomes trapped. You can run your boat aground intentionally if you need to do maintenance or unload cargo, but most cases of running aground are accidental. Operator error, inaccurate information about water depths or … Read more ›
As a boat operator, it’s your responsibility to keep everybody safe on board, to the best of your ability, at all times. This involves knowing what to do in case of a boat fire. Common causes of boat fires The most common types of boat fires are: Engine fires, where overheating due to poor ventilation … Read more ›
Every year, boaters in the US drown after falling overboard. The risk of death is even higher when a person falls into cold water. What to do if someone falls into cold water First, don’t panic. This goes for both the people on board and the person who has fallen into the water. What to … Read more ›
Capsizing and falling overboard both result in boaters ending up in the water. US Coast Guard statistics indicate that 75 percent of fatal boating incident victims drowned, so it’s important not to underestimate the risks associated with falling overboard. Knowing what to do if your boat capsizes or a passenger unexpectedly falls overboard can save … Read more ›
The number of lawsuits related to boating accidents continues to grow. A lawsuit is an expensive, emotionally tolling procedure. Do what you can to avoid problems by taking simple precautions and clearly understanding your responsibilities as a skipper. In short, follow the rules, inform your guests and help other boaters as needed. Operator Responsibilities No … Read more ›
Cold water immersion is a real risk when boating on both inland and coastal waters of the US. While repeated immersion and exceptional physical fitness is proven to make you less susceptible to the effects of cold water immersion, even fit individuals and strong swimmers are at risk of drowning and in many cases, hypothermia. … Read more ›
