Boating License Quiz & Flashcards on Displacement Vessels

Questions and Answers

What is the main characteristic of displacement vessels?

To move through the water with a minimum of propulsion.

Where is the hull identification number (HIN) permanently affixed?

To the rear of the transom.

What separates the submerged section on the hull of the boat from the section above the water level?

Waterline.

Where can you find information about how much weight the boat can hold?

Carrying capacity plate. Signup and view all the answers

How do you measure the length overall of a boat?

From the tip of the bow in a straight line to the stern of the vessel. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first thing to look for after starting your outboard engine?

Cooling the engine with water. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do while leaving a dock if the wind or current pushes you away from the dock?

Cast off all lines. When clear and safely away from the dock, shift to forward and gradually turn your boat away from the dock. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do while leaving a dock if the wind or current pushes you back onto it?

Use the bow line as an after bow spring and move slowly forward to swing the stern away. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do before leaving the dock?

Go over the pre-departure checklist. Signup and view all the answers

What must you do if your boat suffers a mechanical failure or breaks down?

Drop anchor to prevent the boat from drifting while you try to repair the problem. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first thing you should do if your boat runs aground?

Make sure no one is injured and there is no hull flooding. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you fall overboard while NOT wearing a PFD?

Stay calm in the water and conserve energy. Signup and view all the answers

What must you do if your boat capsizes?

Put on your PFD, swim to the boat, and stay with the boat. Signup and view all the answers

What is the proper way to use a fire extinguisher?

Direct it at the base of the flames and sweep side to side using short bursts. Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean when you see the diving flag?

Diving. Signup and view all the answers

What should a skier do if she/he falls in the water?

Hold up a water ski. Signup and view all the answers

What causes the leading deaths among recreational boating fatalities?

Falling overboard and drowning with no PFD on. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do to protect yourself and others from carbon monoxide poisoning?

Open forward hatches. Signup and view all the answers

Where should portable marine fire extinguishers be mounted?

In a readily accessible area. Signup and view all the answers

Which visual distress signal is acceptable for night use only?

Flashlight. Signup and view all the answers

Which flag should a boat engaged in diving operations fly?

The 'Alpha Flag' and/or a 'Divers Down Flag'. Signup and view all the answers

What happens when you put the throttle to idle, or shut off the engine on a forward-moving PWC?

You will have no maneuvering capability. Signup and view all the answers

Which navigation lights will be seen looking at the bow of a 19-foot powerboat underway at night?

Red on port side of bow, green on starboard side, white light showing 360 degrees. Signup and view all the answers

What should you always do when starting your PWC?

Attach the lanyard to your wrist or PFD. Signup and view all the answers

What precautions should the operator of a pleasure craft take in order to avoid a collision with another boat?

Always maintain a proper lookout by sight and hearing. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do to let a lockmaster know you want to enter a lock?

Call on your VHF radio. Signup and view all the answers

What must every life jacket or PFD be?

Of approved type. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first thing you should do if your boat starts taking on water?

Find the source of the water. Signup and view all the answers

What color is the starboard navigation light?

Green. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Displacement Vessels

Displacement vessels move through water with minimal propulsion, optimizing fuel efficiency.

Hull Identification Number (HIN)

The HIN is permanently affixed to the rear of a boat's transom, necessary for identification purposes.

Waterline

The waterline separates the submerged section of the hull from the section above water.

Carrying Capacity Plate

Details on weight capacity, maximum passengers, and motor size can be found on the carrying capacity plate.

Length Measurement

Measure the length overall of a boat from the tip of the bow to the stern in a straight line.

Engine Cooling

After starting an outboard engine, ensure it is cooling properly with water.

Boating Regulations

Untreated human waste must never be dumped overboard in inland waters; this is regulated to protect the environment.

A flashing blue light indicates a law enforcement watercraft.
The starboard navigation light is green while a port sidelight is identified with a letter B.
A vessel operating under oars must display a white light after dark to avoid collisions.

Fire Safety

Portable marine fire extinguishers must be mounted in readily accessible areas.
Every life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) must be U.S. Coast Guard approved.

Ventilation Systems

Ventilation systems on boats are essential for removing fumes before engine operation.

Visual Distress Signals

All visual distress signals should only be used in emergencies.

Communicate entry intentions to a lockmaster via VHF radio.

Pre-Launch Checks

Ensure the drain plug is in place and conduct a pre-departure checklist before launching your boat.

Safety and Emergency Protocols

Pull the trailer away from the ramp after retrieving the boat for safety.
As a skipper, always remain aware of weather conditions and leave a float plan with a responsible person.

Alcohol and Boating

Alcohol impairs balance and coordination, increasing boating accident risks.

Maneuvering Rules

If overtaking another vessel, take action to keep clear.
Power-driven vessels should alter courses to starboard when meeting another power-driven boat.

Environmental Awareness

Teak surfing or platform dragging may lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, a critical safety hazard.

Accident and Emergencies

In an accident resulting in injury, identify yourself and your boat to authorities.

Hypothermia Treatment

Treat hypothermia by gradually warming the victim and covering them with a blanket.

Anchoring Techniques

Proper anchoring requires stopping the boat, lowering the anchor, and backing up slowly while letting out the rode.

Key Signs and Flags

The "Alpha Flag" indicates diving operations.
Regulatory markers may inform about speed zones.

Personal Flotation Devices

For PFD selection, size is the most critical factor; a Type III PFD will not turn most unconscious wearers face-up.

Boat Operation Responsibilities

Keep a proper lookout at all times when the boat is underway.
Adjust speed when passing recreational boats to avoid creating wake that may cause injury or damage.

Navigational Aids

Red, cone-shaped nun buoys indicate safe navigation routes in U.S. coastal waters.
Use charts when navigating to prevent grounding.

Communication for Skiers

Water skiers should use hand signals to communicate with the tow boat for safety coordination.

Final Reminders

Always wear a PFD when on a boat to prevent drowning.
In capsizing situations, it's critical to stay with the boat and wear a USCG-approved PFD for safety.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

Test your knowledge on essential boating terminology with these flashcards. Designed to help you master key concepts related to displacement vessels, hull identification, and waterline definitions. Perfect for anyone preparing for their boating license.

Boating License Flashcards