To determine a 'safe speed' for your boat, take into account the following factors:
- The visibility conditions (fog, mist, rain, darkness)
- The wind, water conditions and currents.
- Traffic density, type of vessels in the area and their proximity.
The purchaser of a new or used vessel has 30 days in which to apply for registration and title. During this 30 day period the owner is required to have aboard his vessel proof of date of purchase. Operation of an unregistered vessel after 30 days is a second-degree misdemeanor.
A power-driven vessel towing astern, more than 50 meters, length of tow less than 200 meters, starboard side. A power-driven vessel towing astern, more than 50 meters, length of tow less than 200 meters, port side.
Shut off all fuel valves and extinguish all open flames, such as galley stoves and pilot lights. Close all windows, ports, doors, and other openings to prevent fumes from entering the boat. Remove portable fuel tanks from the boat and fill them on the dock. Make sure that your fire extinguisher is within reach.
During daytime hours the following boats are not required to carry visual distress signals:
- Boats less than 16 feet in length;
- Boats participating in organized events, such as regattas;
- Open sailboats that are less than 26 feet in length and not equipped with an engine;
- And manually propelled boats, such as canoes.
A boat 26' to less than 40' with no fixed system must have two B-I or one B-II fire extinguishers on board. A boat 26' to less that 40' with approved fixed extinguisher system requires one B-I extinguisher.
All recreational vessels must carry one wearable life jacket for each person on board . Any boat 16 feet and longer (except canoes and kayaks) must also carry one throwable (Type IV) device . Life jackets should be worn at all times when the vessel is under- way .
The following documents required:
- Certificate of Ownership from the state where the vessel was last titles. (For nontitling state requirements see Section 4.020).
- Certificate of Number where formerly registered or a letter of registration verification from that state.
5 Types of PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices)
- Family.
- Boating.
- Safety.
- Idaho.
- Wakesurfing.
- Wakeboarding.
- Life Jackets.
- PFD.
An efficient sound signaling device is now required on every boat on the water. Under 39.4 feet: needs to be equipped with some “means of making an efficient sound signal,” such as a whistle or horn, but it can't be a human produced noise.
If you anticipate any kind of engine problems, it's a good idea to start the engine and let it warm up while your boat is still attached to the winch line, and before reversing the boat off of the trailer. If your engine doesn't start, it's a lot easier to retrieve your boat if it is still on the trailer.
PFD sizing and fitting: Sizing for adults is based on your chest size, and you're looking for a snug-but-comfortable fit. PFD features and specs: Features such as pockets, color and tabs, and specifications like flotation and U.S. Coast Guard Type, are things you may want to look for when shopping.
As the vessel operator, captain, or skipper, it is your responsibility to explain the fire safety procedures to passengers on your boat. You have a legal responsibility to make sure all passengers understand basic safety procedures.
A re-boarding device, such as a transom or swim platform ladder appropriate to the size of the vessel, is designed to allow easy re-boarding of your boat from the water. It is required that all boats carry an effective re-boarding device if the Freeboard of the boat is greater than 0.5 m.
Boats less than 26' have to have at least one B-1 fire extinguisher on board. Boats 26'-40' need to have at least two B-1 fire extinguishers on board. If the boat has a USCG approved fire extinguisher system installed for protection of the engine compartment, then the required number may be reduced.
The PFD or the lifejacket must be of an appropriate size for each person. During a nautical trip, the PFD must be available at all times within the pleasure craft, for the operator as well as for each passenger.
PFDs, Flares Fire Extinguishers, Sound Devices and LightsOne personal flotation device (in good condition) for each person on board, plus a throw-able cushion or ring is required. You must have the PFDs out of the plastic and in a READILY accessible location. The throw-able should be close by the steering station.
1 Nearly 40% of all drownings result from boating accidents, and most of these involve motorized boats used for fishing and power- boating.
The red light indicates a vessel's port (left) side; the green indicates a vessel's starboard (right) side. Sternlight: This white light is seen only from behind or nearly behind the vessel.
Two strong safety chains should be crisscrossed to support the trailer's coupler if it becomes disconnected from the towing vehicle. The chains should be strong enough to hold the combined weight of the vessel, engine, and trailer.
It is the responsibility of every boat or PWC operator to: Operate in a safe manner. Take all necessary action to avoid a collision, taking into account the weather, vessel traffic, and limits of other vessels. Such action should be taken in time to avoid a collision and at a safe distance from other vessels.
Operating a boat in a manner that is dangerous to the public. Operating a vessel while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Not keeping watch of a person in tow (water-skiers, etc) Towing a person after dark.
Transport Canada requires that paddlers carry certain safety items on canoes, kayaks, and even kiteboards and stand-up paddleboards. The minimum you need is a PFD and sound signalling device, beyond that, the required equipment varies by type and length of your boat, and where and when you plan to paddle.
Powerboat A: When only a white light is visible, you may be overtaking another vessel. Give way to either side. Powerboat B: You are being overtaken.
