Section 1 • Safety
The wind speed and wave height specified as the upper limit for your category of boat does not mean that you or your passengers can survive if your boat is exposed to these conditions. It is only the most experienced operators and crew that may be able to operate a boat safely under these conditions. You must always be aware of weather conditions and head for port or protected waters in sufficient time to avoid being caught in high winds and rough water. Do not take chances!
Getting caught in severe weather is hazardous. Bad weather and/or rough sea or water conditions can cause an unsafe situation. Consult local weather information, or listen to the NOAA weather reports for the latest weather conditions or any impending deterioration of the weather before setting out and while underway. The following are a few basic
•Check the weather forecast and the water conditions before leaving and while underway.
•A sudden change in wind direction or speed or an increase in wave height indicates deteriorating weather.
•Have everyone wear a personal flotation device.
•If a storm approaches, immediately seek a safe harbor.
•If a storm hits, have everyone sit in the cabin or on the cockpit deck in the boat. Head the bow into the wind with enough power to maintain slow headway.
•If you encounter fog, determine your position, set a safe course, slow down and alert other boats of your presence with a sound signal.
•If a lightning storm approaches, the safest action is to dock and disembark. If you cannot return to shore, have passengers go inside the cabin and remain there until the storm passes.
•Lightning seeks ground when it strikes. The best protection is a properly grounded lightning rod placed high enough over the deck to provide a protective umbrella over the hull. Depending upon the likelihood of your being in a lightning storm, consult your dealer for installation of a lightning rod. If caught in a storm, stay clear of the lightning rod, all attached wiring, and all metal parts of the boat.
•Stay out of the water during a lightning storm. If caught swimming during a storm, get back into the boat and remain there until the storm passes.
General Considerations
•Know how your boat handles under different conditions. Recognize your limitations and the boat's limitations. Modify speed in keeping with weather, sea, and traffic conditions.
•Instruct passengers on the fundamentals of operating your boat in case you are unable to do so.
•You are responsible for passengers' actions. If they place themselves or the boat in danger, immediately correct them.
13.Weather
There are four design categories of boats based upon their ability to withstand wind and sea or water conditions:
A. Ocean
Wind speed: above 40 knots (46 mph)
Wave height: above 4 meters (13 feet)
Boat may be used for extended ocean voyages.
B.Offshore
Maximum wind speed: 40 knots (46 mph)
Maximum wave height: 4 meters (13 feet)
Boat can be used offshore, but not for extended ocean voyages.
C.Inshore
Maximum wind speed: 27 knots (31 mph)
Maximum wave height: 2 meters (6.5 feet)
Boat use is limited to coastal waters, large bays, estuaries, lakes and rivers.
D.Sheltered waters
Maximum speed: 15 knots (18 mph)
Maximum wave height: 0.5 meters (1.5 feet)
Boat use is limited to small lakes, rivers and canals.
14.Chart Your Course
To avoid boating in unsafe areas where there are underwater obstructions, shallow water, unnavigable conditions such as dangerous currents, and others, you must chart a course. This means having and using the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) charts for coastal waters, observing and understanding all navigational aids, using the knowledge and guidance of experienced boaters, and being aware of the tide times where appropriate.
30 Outlaw® | 1.8 |
