USA Boating

What Should Be Included on a Float Plan?

December 20, 2023

It’s a good idea to share a float plan with someone trustworthy before setting off on a boat trip, especially for longer journeys. A float plan can be presented in written or verbal form. It details crucial information about your boating location, schedule, and key aspects of your voyage. It serves as a vital tool … Read more ›

What is a Small Craft Advisory?

A Small Craft Advisory is issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) in the United States as a warning to mariners about hazardous marine weather conditions, including high winds, tall waves, rough seas, heavy rain, thunderstorms and other dangers like sea and lake ice. Boaters are advised to stay informed about weather conditions and take … Read more ›

How to Drive a Boat in Rough Water

A boat operator is enjoying a day on the water when all of a sudden the weather changes. What can they do? Get ready to learn how to handle rough water! Boating in rough water: stay safe!  When boating in rough water, there are several things you can do to stay safe: Slow down and … Read more ›

Marine Distress Signals: Types and Uses

December 11, 2023

Marine distress signals can take a number of forms. In general, they consist of visual or audio signs that show other boaters or rescue personnel that you need help. Recreational boating is all about getting out on the water and having a good time. Nevertheless, it’s important to be prepared for emergencies, so that your … Read more ›

Visual Distress Signals While Boating: Types and Regulations

A Visual Distress Signal (VDS) is a crucial piece of boating safety equipment that allows your boat to be located swiftly during emergencies. If used correctly, visual distress signals make it possible to respond quickly to situations that could otherwise lead to tragic results. VDS signals include: Day signals that are visible in sunlight Night … Read more ›

Navigation Lights for Sailboats and Human-Powered Vessels

October 30, 2023

Navigation lights are an important element of boating safety equipment for all boats, including sailboats and human-powered vessels. If you are operating a sailboat or nonpowered boat such as a canoe, kayak or rowboat, you need to know when to use navigation lights. You also need to be aware of the correct configuration of navigation … Read more ›

Boat Navigation Light Rules and Requirements

Boat navigation lights are one of the most important pieces of safety equipment on your boat, along with personal flotation devices, boat fire extinguishers and boat ventilation systems. As a boat owner or operator, you are legally responsible for using the correct safety equipment at all times. This is your responsibility whether your boat is … Read more ›

What are Ventilation Systems on Boats Used For?

October 17, 2023

A boat engine produces fumes that can accumulate and lead to a powerful, potentially life-threatening explosion. A boat ventilation system makes this type of disaster much less likely by removing combustible fumes from the bilges of engines and fuel tank compartments. Your boat ventilation system is an essential part of your boating safety equipment. All … Read more ›

What are Backfire Flame Arrestors for Boats?

A backfire flame arrestor is a piece of safety equipment that you need to keep onboard if your boat has an inboard engine. What do backfire flame arrestors do? When a boat engine backfires, flames could come into contact with fuel or other flammables and start a fire. A backfire flame arrestor is a round … Read more ›

Boat Fire Extinguisher Classes and Requirements

October 2, 2023

Boat fire extinguishers are an essential piece of boating safety equipment. While not all boats are required to carry one by law, it is highly recommended that all boaters be prepared to fight fire by equipping their boat with an appropriate fire extinguisher, just in case. Boat fires can happen unexpectedly. While most boat fires … Read more ›