Blog June 2014

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IMPORTANCE OF AN EMERGENCY GRAB BAG

Posted On: June 26, 2014

The Importance In Always having an emergency grab bag when at sea…

No one thinks they will ever need it. Chances are you might not, but for some of us, In the event of an emergency resulting in having to abandon ship, it is imperative to have a waterproof dry bag to carry essential emergency items. This could prove to be the reason you survive or don’t.

These might include items already in use on the boat, as well as some already stored in the bag.

Emergency afloat – Grab bag contents

• Handheld GPS 
• Handheld VHF 
• PLB/EPIRB 
• Flares 
• Sea sickness pills 
• Torch and batteries                       
• First aid kit
• Thermal protective aids 
• Medication 
• Food and water 
• Ship’s documents 
• Personal documents 

 A little prep now can make all the difference!!

It’s up to you!!   

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RESPONSIBLE BOATING TIPS

Posted On: June 12, 2014

Responsible Boating         

Lets face it, if we all are going to have fun, we must be responsible.

EDUCATE YOURSELF

Educate yourself prior to sailing by learning rules and regulations, planning for your trip, taking recreation skills classes and knowing how to operate your equipment safely.

  • Obtain charts of your destination and determine which areas are open to your type of boat.
  • Make a realistic plan and stick to it.
  • Always tell someone of your travel plans and file a float plan.
  • Contact the land manager for area restrictions, closures and permit requirements.
  • Check the weather forecast for your destination. Plan clothing, equipment and supplies
  • Make sure you have enough fuel and oil for the entire trip.
  • Make sure your owner’s manual and registration are on board in waterproof containers.
  • Always carry a Coast Guard approved working fire extinguisher and warning flares.
  • Prepare for the unexpected by packing necessary emergency items.
  • Carry a Global Positioning System (GPS)and know how to use it.
  • Know distress signals and warning symbols. Know your limitations. Apply sunscreen, drink lots of water and watch your energy level.
  • Take a boater education course to learn more about navigating waterways and safe  boating.
  • Make sure your boat is mechanically up to the task.   

AVOID SENSITIVE AREAS

Avoid sensitive areas and operating your watercraft in shallow waters or near shorelines at high speeds.

  • Always launch at a designated boat ramp. Backing a vehicle on a riverbank or lakeshore can damage the area and leads to erosion.
  • Always travel slowly in shallow waters and avoid boating in water less than 2½ feet deep. High speeds near shorelines lead to large wakes which cause shoreline erosion.
  • Sensitive areas to avoid include seasonal nesting or breeding areas.
  • Do not disturb historical, archeological or paleontological sites.
  • Avoid “spooking” wildlife you encounter and keep your distance.
  • Motorized and mechanized vehicles are not allowed in designated Wilderness Areas.

RESPECT THE RIGHTS OF OTHERS

Always respect the rights of others, including anglers, swimmers, skiers, boaters, divers and others so they can enjoy their recreational activities undisturbed.

  • Show consideration to all recreationists on and around the waters.
  • Be courteous to other boaters while in boat ramp areas. Launch and retrieve your boat as quickly as possible.
  • Keep the noise down, especially around shore.
  • If crossing private property, be sure to ask permission from the landowner(s).
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MAN OVERBOARD!!!

Posted On: June 05, 2014

Emergency Procedures

Man Overboard

No matter what the size or type of ship, inevitably you may be faced with, or encounter a man overboard situation.

Knowing what to do can save a life and  is your duty as a boat operator.

 

Identify the Name of ship, Position, Course steered, Time,

Clearly state Man overboard, Please keep sharp look-out.

  • Inform bridge immediately with side of the ship (starboard or port or after)
  • Sound general alarm / inform Master
  • Release lifebuoy with light, flare or smoke signal
  • If possible, keep person in sight / post several look-outs if possible
  • If person is not visible, apply the Boutakoff method
  • Inform engine operator and start maneuvering
  • Position of life buoy and vessel noted with time of start search
  • Alert other vessels
  • Send radio message:
  • Sound signals (three long blasts)
  • Prepare rescue boat( if applicable)
  • If relevant, inform AMVER
  • Prepare treatment
  • Inform Company if commercial vessel
  • When rescued, inform all parties
  • Enter all relevant information and actions taken in log book
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