Boating Safety Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

What are possible penalties for conviction of boating under the influence?

Community service

Fines only

Fines and, in some cases, jail time (correct)

Jail time only

What should you do with your float plan for a weekend water outing?

Stow it with the boat's registration papers

Leave it with a friend or relative (correct)

Mail it to your home address

Fax it to the nearest U.S. Coast Guard station

Which of these should be included in a float plan for a weekend trip?

Floor plan of your boat's cabin and number of berths

Inventory of onboard provisions

Location of built-in flotation

Registration number, size, and make of your boat (correct)

What should you do when approaching a low-head dam in a canoe or kayak?

Carry your craft around the dam Signup and view all the answers

At what point should you open all windows and hatches when fueling?

After fueling Signup and view all the answers

What is a good safety precaution when fueling your boat?

Sniff for fumes after fueling and before starting the engine Signup and view all the answers

What precaution should you take while towing a trailered boat?

Allow more time and distance for stopping Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for maintaining a sharp lookout when two boats are operating in the same general area?

The operators of both boats Signup and view all the answers

What should a powerboat do when about to cross paths with a sailboat under sail?

Slowly turn in the opposite direction of the sailboat Signup and view all the answers

What should a sailboat operator do when approaching a personal watercraft (PWC) head-on?

Maintain present course and speed Signup and view all the answers

Which boat must give way when one boat is overtaking another?

The boat that is overtaking Signup and view all the answers

What does one short blast of a horn mean?

I intend to pass you on my port (left) side Signup and view all the answers

What sound signal should you make if you do not understand what another boater intends to do?

Five or more short blasts Signup and view all the answers

You are boating near shore at twilight. You see a square-shaped daymark. What color is it?

Green Signup and view all the answers

What color is a marker that indicates safe water on all sides?

White with red vertical stripes Signup and view all the answers

What light(s) must power-driven vessels less than 65.6 feet (20 meters) long exhibit when underway between sunset and sunrise?

Red and green sidelights Signup and view all the answers

What does a white marker with an orange diamond and black lettering indicate?

Danger or hazard Signup and view all the answers

What age children are required to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD when on deck and underway?

Under 13 years Signup and view all the answers

A PWC capsizes. What is the best way to roll the PWC to turn it upright?

Roll the PWC according to the decal on the craft Signup and view all the answers

You are operating a PWC. You turn the engine off and then turn the steering control hard right. Which way will the PWC go?

It will continue straight toward the dock Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the PWC can cause severe internal injuries?

Steering nozzle Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of an ignition safety switch?

To shut off the engine if the operator is thrown overboard Signup and view all the answers

How should firearms be transported in a boat?

Unloaded and lying flat on a seat or the boat's bottom Signup and view all the answers

What type of engine is common on boats designed for shallow water?

Jet drive Signup and view all the answers

When moored to a dock, what should you do before casting off while you warm up the engine?

Make sure everyone on board is wearing a life jacket Signup and view all the answers

You are operating a powerboat at night. What does it mean when you see only a red and a green light on another boat?

A sailing vessel is approaching head-on. You must give way. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of PFD will turn most unconscious people face-up in the water?

Type I Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is ILLEGAL operation of a PWC under North Carolina law?

Operating a PWC after sunset Signup and view all the answers

Who is liable for any injury or damage caused by the reckless or negligent operation of a vessel?

Vessel owner Signup and view all the answers

What should be included on a float plan?

Your plans for the water outing Signup and view all the answers

What is the likelihood of drowning for paddlers in small boats (such as canoes, kayaks, and rafts)?

Paddlers are more than twice as likely to drown Signup and view all the answers

While boating, you see a red flag with a white diagonal stripe. What does this flag mean?

Diver underwater in the immediate area Signup and view all the answers

What is likely to happen if you do not ventilate your boat after fueling?

Gas fumes will stay in the bottom of the boat Signup and view all the answers

What should you do before fueling your boat?

Shut OFF the engine and OPEN all windows, ports, doors, and other openings Signup and view all the answers

What should you keep in mind when selecting a ball hitch and coupler for towing your boat?

The ball hitch and coupler must be the same size Signup and view all the answers

What is the best source for a complete listing of navigation rules that apply to recreational boaters?

U.S. Coast Guard Signup and view all the answers

A motorboat is crossing paths with a personal watercraft (PWC). What action should be taken?

The vessel on the port (left) should give way Signup and view all the answers

A sailboat and a PWC are meeting head-on. Which one is the give-way vessel?

PWC Signup and view all the answers

A PWC is overtaking another vessel. Which vessel must give way?

The PWC Signup and view all the answers

What do two short blasts of a horn mean?

I intend to pass you on YOUR port side. Signup and view all the answers

You are operating a motorboat. You hear one prolonged blast from the horn of another vessel. What should you do?

Look out for the other vessel. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when you see a green buoy?

Keep it on your left when heading upstream. Signup and view all the answers

You are traveling upstream on a river at dusk. You see a buoy with the number 5 and a flashing green light. What should you do?

Keep the buoy on your port (left) side. Signup and view all the answers

You see a white buoy with an orange square and black lettering. What does this buoy tell you?

Information or directions Signup and view all the answers

What color is the marker used to warn boaters not to pass between the marker and the shore?

White with black vertical stripes Signup and view all the answers

You see a white marker with an orange circle and black lettering. What does this marker tell you?

Controlled area Signup and view all the answers

Which symbol on a regulatory marker is used to mark a swimming area?

Orange crossed diamond Signup and view all the answers

What happens when you modify a PWC's exhaust system?

Noise may be increased to an illegal level. Signup and view all the answers

What happens when a PWC's steering control is turned to the right?

The back of the PWC is pushed to the left, and the PWC turns right. Signup and view all the answers

What is the risk when a PWC passes too closely behind another boat?

The other boat may create a blind spot for the PWC operator. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a lanyard attached to an ignition safety switch?

To shut off the engine if the operator falls overboard. Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is a sign of dehydration?

Sleepiness Signup and view all the answers

For most people, how many alcoholic drinks does it take before judgment and physical reaction time are impaired?

One Signup and view all the answers

Someone falls into the water from a dock. What is the FIRST thing you should do to help this person?

Try to talk the victim to safety. Signup and view all the answers

A passenger on a small boat falls overboard. How should this person be pulled back onto the boat?

Over the stern with the engine turned off. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do FIRST if your boat runs aground?

Make sure no one is injured, and then check for leaks. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if the motor on your boat catches fire?

Shut off the fuel supply if possible. Signup and view all the answers

What is the danger if a swimmer enters the area under a boat's swim platform?

Fatal carbon monoxide poisoning Signup and view all the answers

When does fog usually form in inlets and bays?

In the morning or evening when the temperature changes. Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for reviewing a pre-departure checklist before a boat outing?

Boat operator Signup and view all the answers

It is a good idea for all boaters to use a pre-departure checklist. Why?

To ensure safety. Signup and view all the answers

Responsible boaters use cleaning products that won't harm lakes or rivers. Which product is a responsible choice for cleaning your boat?

Non-phosphate detergent Signup and view all the answers

Which is the safest area for towing a skier?

In the middle of the lake away from other boaters. Signup and view all the answers

How should you pass a fishing boat?

With minimum wake and well away from fishing lines. Signup and view all the answers

Where is a boat's gunwale located?

On the upper edge of each side. Signup and view all the answers

What is the best way to check for gas fumes after fueling a PWC?

Smell for fumes. Signup and view all the answers

If the wind or current is pushing your boat away from the dock as you prepare to dock, which line should you secure first?

Bow line Signup and view all the answers

What is the best way to avoid overloading your boat?

Don't exceed the limits listed on the capacity plate. Signup and view all the answers

What is the best way to retrieve an anchor?

Pull the anchor straight up. Signup and view all the answers

What causes a PFD to wear out over time?

Exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun. Signup and view all the answers

How can you recognize a commercial vessel towing at night?

Look for yellow lights. Signup and view all the answers

You are operating a powerboat at night. You see red, green, and white lights on another boat. What do these lights tell you?

A power-driven vessel is approaching head-on. Both vessels must give way. Signup and view all the answers

Which navigation instrument is useful for steering when land is out of sight?

Compass Signup and view all the answers

What is the first stage of cold water immersion?

Cold shock Signup and view all the answers

An inboard engine backfires. What will prevent the ignition of gasoline fumes?

Backfire flame arrestor Signup and view all the answers

Which PFD is designed to be thrown to someone in the water?

Ring buoy Signup and view all the answers

PFDs on a boat must be readily accessible. Which storage method best meets this requirement?

PFDs are kept where they can be grabbed quickly by anyone on board. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is legal?

Disposing of oil waste at an approved facility. Signup and view all the answers

Which of these circumstances would require you to report a boating accident to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission?

Damage to your boat is more than $2,000 as the result of a boating accident. Signup and view all the answers

What is required for a person younger than 26 years old to legally operate, unaccompanied, a vessel with a motor of 10 horsepower or more?

Pass an approved boating safety course. Signup and view all the answers

By law, how far away must a vessel stay from a displayed diver-down flag?

50 feet Signup and view all the answers

What are vessels less than 65.6 feet in length required to carry?

Whistle or horn or some other means to make a sound signal. Signup and view all the answers

All vessels must have one Type I, II, or III U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD for each person on board or being towed. Which vessels also must have one Type IV PFD on board?

Vessels 16 ft in length or longer. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following items must be displayed on both sides of the bow of a vessel?

Registration number Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is LEGAL operation of a PWC under North Carolina law?

Operating a PWC with each person wearing an approved personal flotation device. Signup and view all the answers

What minimum distance must be maintained from a U.S. Navy boat?

100 yards Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum vessel speed when passing within 50 yards of a state-owned or state-controlled boating or fishing access area?

Idle speed Signup and view all the answers

Which of these actions is a homeland security violation?

Approaching within 100 yards of a U.S. Navy boat. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Float Plan Essentials

A float plan should include your outing plans, e-mail address, and the location of life jackets.
It is intended to inform someone of your boat trip details for safety.

Drowning Risks

Paddlers in small boats are over twice as likely to drown compared to other boaters, highlighting the need for caution.

Navigational Signals

A red flag with a white diagonal stripe indicates a diver is present underwater in the immediate area.

Fueling Precautions

After fueling, if not ventilated, gas fumes will remain in the bottom of the boat.
Always ensure to shut off the engine and close all openings before fueling.

Equipment Compatibility

The ball hitch and coupler for towing a boat must match in size to ensure safety.

For comprehensive navigation rules applicable to recreational boaters, reference the U.S. Coast Guard.

Vessel Right of Way

When a motorboat meets a PWC, the vessel on the port (left) side must yield.

Collision Avoidance

In a meeting between a sailboat and PWC, the PWC is the give-way vessel.

PWC Passing Protocol

A PWC overtaking another vessel must yield.

Horn Signals

Two short blasts of a horn indicates intention to pass on the port side of another vessel.

Safety Signals

A prolonged blast from another vessel's horn is a warning; be vigilant for the approaching vessel.

Buoy Regulations

A green buoy should be kept on the left (port) side when heading upstream.

Regulatory Markers

White markers with orange squares provide information or directions, while markers with black vertical stripes warn of obstructions to navigation.

Handling PWC Modifications

Modifying a PWC’s exhaust can lead to illegally high noise levels.

Steering Mechanics

Turning a PWC’s steering control right pushes the back left, resulting in a right turn.

Safety Gear

A lanyard attached to the ignition safety switch will shut off the engine if the operator falls overboard.

Dehydration Signs

Sleepiness is a key indicator of dehydration while on the water.

Alcohol Consumption

Judgment and physical reaction times can be impaired after consuming just one alcoholic drink.

Emergency Response

If someone falls overboard, the first action should be to talk the victim to safety.

Boat Safety Procedures

If a boat runs aground, first ensure no one is injured and check for leaks.

Fuel Fire Response

In case of a boat fire, shut off the fuel supply if possible to prevent escalation.

Carbon Monoxide Risks

Swimmers must avoid areas under the swim platform to prevent fatal carbon monoxide poisoning.

Fog and Visibility

Fog commonly forms in inlets and bays during morning or evening temperature changes.

Pre-departure Checks

The boat operator is responsible for reviewing a pre-departure checklist for safety.

Environmental Responsibility

Use non-phosphate detergents to clean boats to prevent harm to aquatic environments.

Skier Towing Safety

The safest place to tow a skier is in the middle of the lake away from other boats.

Passing Fishing Boats

When passing a fishing boat, do so slowly with minimal wake and maintain distance from fishing lines.

Boat Gunwale Definition

The gunwale is the upper edge of the hull on both sides of a boat.

Gas Fume Checks

Smelling for gas fumes is the best way to check for gas leaks after fueling a PWC.

Docking Procedures

Secure the bow line first if wind or current pushes the boat away from the dock.

Capacity Limits

Never exceed the limits stated on the capacity plate to prevent overloading.

Anchor Retrieval Techniques

Pull the anchor straight up for safe and efficient retrieval.

PFD Care

UV rays from the sun degrade PFDs over time; regular maintenance is essential for inflatable types.

Navigational Identification

At night, a commercial vessel towing is identifiable by yellow lights.

Red, green, and white lights indicate a power-driven vessel is approaching head-on, requiring both vessels to yield.

A compass is crucial for steering when land outlines are not visible.

Cold Water Immersion Phases

Cold shock is the initial response to sudden immersion in cold water, posing significant risk.

Engine Backfire Prevention

Install a backfire flame arrestor to prevent ignition of gasoline fumes after an engine backfire.

PFDs for Water Safety

A ring buoy is specifically designed to be thrown to someone in the water for rescue.

PFD Accessibility

Personal Flotation Devices must be stored where they can be quickly accessed by anyone on the boat.

Legal Waste Disposal

Laws regulate the disposal of waste; oil waste should only be disposed of at approved facilities.

Reporting Requirements

Report damages over $2,000 due to boating accidents to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.

Boating Age Regulations

Individuals under 26 operating a motorized vessel must pass an approved boating safety course.

Diver-Down Flag Regulations

Maintain a distance of 50 feet from a displayed diver-down flag to ensure safety.

Vessel Sound Equipment

All vessels under 65.6 feet must carry a whistle, horn, or other sound-producing device.

PFD Requirements for Vessels

Vessels 16 feet or longer need one Type IV PFD on board in addition to standard PFD requirements.

Registration Display Regulations

The registration number must be displayed on both sides of the vessel's bow for legal operation.

Legal PWC Operation

PWC operators must ensure all passengers wear approved personal flotation devices for safe operation.

Navy Vessel Proximity Laws

Maintain a distance of at least 100 yards from U.S. Navy vessels.

Speed Restrictions Near Access Areas

Idle speed is mandated when passing within 50 yards of state-controlled boating or fishing areas.

Security Violation Awareness

Approaching closer than 100 yards to a U.S. Navy vessel is considered a violation of homeland security regulations.

Penalties for Boating Under Influence

Conviction for boating under the influence can result in fines and possibly jail time.

Float Plan Filing Guidelines

A float plan for a weekend trip should be left with a trusted friend or relative for safety reasons.

Float Plan Content Requirements

Include boat details, trip route, emergency contacts, and planned return times in your float plan.

Safety Measures Near Low-Head Dams

Always carry your canoe or kayak around a low-head dam to prevent accidents.

Reliability of Ventilation

Open all windows and hatches after fueling to ventilate gas fumes effectively.### Ventilation and Fueling Precautions
Activate the ventilation system after leaving the fuel dock to disperse fumes.
Before starting the engine, sniff for any fuel fumes for safety checks.

Towing Precautions

When towing a trailered boat, allow extra time and distance for stopping to prevent accidents.

Lookout Responsibilities

Both operators are responsible for maintaining a sharp lookout when two boats are in the same area.

Powerboat and Sailboat Interaction

A powerboat should slowly turn in the opposite direction of a sailboat under sail to avoid collision.

PWC Encounter Protocol

A sailboat operator should maintain course and speed when approaching a personal watercraft (PWC) head-on.

Overtaking Rules

The boat that is overtaking must give way to the boat being overtaken.

Sound Signals Interpretation

One short blast of a horn indicates the intent to pass on the port (left) side.
If confused about another boater's intentions, signal with five or more short blasts.

Marker Recognition

A square-shaped daymark seen near shore at twilight is typically green, indicating navigational aids.
A marker indicating safe water on all sides is white with red vertical stripes.

Lighting Requirements

Power-driven vessels under 65.6 feet must have an all-round white light plus red and green sidelights when underway at night.

Special Markers

A white marker with an orange diamond warns of danger or hazard.

Life Jacket Regulations

Children under 13 years must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) while on deck and underway.

PWC Handling After Capsizing

To right a capsized PWC, roll it according to the decal on the craft for proper alignment.

Steering Control Mechanism

When turning the steering control hard right while a PWC is heading toward a dock (with the engine off), it will continue straight toward the dock.

Safety Mechanisms

The steering nozzle of a PWC can cause severe internal injuries if mishandled during operation.
The ignition safety switch is designed to shut off the engine if the operator is thrown overboard.

Effect of Noise and Vibration

Noise and vibration can increase the likelihood of fatigue while operating a boat, affecting endurance and alertness.

Common Causes of Falls Overboard

Standing up in a boat is the most likely action to cause someone to fall overboard.

Actions After Running Aground

The first step after grounding a boat at high speed is to ensure that all onboard are unharmed.

Firearm Storage in Boats

Firearms must be transported unloaded and securely placed in opposite ends of the boat, with muzzles pointing forward and rearward respectively.

Engine Types for Shallow Water

Jet drives are commonly used on boats specifically designed for shallow water navigation.

Pre-departure Safety Checks

Before casting off from a dock, ensure everyone is seated and wearing a PFD while warming up the engine.

Anchor Line Length

When anchoring in 20 feet of water, use 60 to 80 feet of anchor line to ensure stability.

Seeing only red and green lights on another vessel at night indicates a sailing vessel approaching head-on, requiring you to give way.

PFD Types

Type I personal flotation devices are designed to turn most unconscious people face up in the water.

Legal Operation of PWCs

Operating a PWC after sunset is considered illegal under North Carolina law.

Liability for Vessel Operation

The vessel owner is liable for any injury or damage caused by reckless or negligent vessel operation.

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Description

Test your knowledge on essential boating safety practices with this set of flashcards. Learn important guidelines such as what to include in a float plan and the risks associated with small boat paddling. Perfect for both new and experienced boaters.