Questions and Answers
What is the definition of weather?
Weather can change very rapidly and create unexpected emergencies for boat and PWC operators. Even meteorologists have trouble predicting rapid changes in the weather.
What action should you take based on weather changes?
You should always watch for changes in the weather and monitor the weather forecast.
Tune a portable radio to a local station that gives weather updates. NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts weather forecasts and warnings using the frequencies: ___, ___, ___, ___, ___, ___, ___.
162.400 MHz, 162.425 MHz, 162.450 MHz, 162.475 MHz, 162.500 MHz, 162.525 MHz, 162.550 MHz
What should you watch for to be alert to weather conditions?
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What should you do to prepare a boat for severe weather?
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How should passengers be prepared for severe weather?
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Count the number of seconds between the flash of lightning and the clap of thunder. Divide the number of seconds by ___. This result is roughly the distance in miles from the storm.
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What is bailing?
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What should you do if you are already caught in a storm?
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What does a Small Craft Advisory indicate?
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What is the definition of a Gale Warning?
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What does a Storm Warning signify?
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What defines a Hurricane Warning?
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What should you carry on board to help summon help during emergencies?
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What are the advantages of using VHF marine radios?
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When operating your boat, you must monitor Channel ____. If you hear a MAYDAY call, remain silent and listen.
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What should you do in a life-threatening emergency?
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To issue a MAYDAY call on Channel 16 of your VHF radio, you should transmit '____, MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY.'
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Study Notes
Weather Emergencies
- Weather can rapidly change, creating unpredictable situations for boat and PWC operators.
- Even meteorologists struggle to forecast sudden weather shifts.
Appropriate Action
- Always monitor weather conditions and forecasts while operating a vessel.
- It is the operator's duty to take necessary actions based on weather developments.
NOAA Weather Radio Frequencies
- NOAA broadcasts weather updates on VHF-FM radio from various frequencies: 162.400 to 162.550 MHz, updated hourly.
Observing Conditions
- Signs of dangerous weather include dark clouds, shifting winds, distant thunder, and changes in barometric pressure.
- A rising barometer indicates fair weather; a falling barometer means bad weather is approaching.
- Watch for lightning and rough waters, and stay alert, especially to the west where bad weather typically originates.
Preparing for Severe Weather
- Slow the vessel but maintain enough power for control.
- Secure all hatches and equipment to minimize risks.
- Activate navigation lights and sound a fog horn in low visibility conditions.
- Keep bilges clear and be ready to bail water if needed. Disconnect electrical equipment during lightning.
Passenger Safety
- Ensure all passengers wear USCG-approved personal flotation devices (PFDs) securely.
- Have passengers sit low in the vessel for stability during inclement weather.
Thunderstorm Proximity
- Count seconds between lightning and thunder; divide by five to estimate distance in miles from the storm.
Bailing
- Bailing refers to removing water from the vessel using a bucket.
Storm Navigation
- If safe, head to shore; if caught in a storm, it may be safer to stay in open water.
- Position the bow at a 45-degree angle to the waves; for PWCs, head directly into the waves.
- Use a "sea anchor" if the engine fails to maintain heading into the wind.
Small Craft Advisories
- A Small Craft Advisory is issued when wind speeds range from 21 to 33 knots (24 to 38 mph), indicating danger for smaller vessels.
Weather Warnings
- Gale Warning indicates winds between 34 to 47 knots (39 to 54 mph).
- Storm Warning applies to winds at 48 knots (55 mph) and above.
- Hurricane Warning is for winds of 64 knots (74 mph) and above.
Emergency Communication Tools
- Carry Visual Distress Signals, VHF Marine Radio, mobile phones, and EPIRBs for emergency assistance.
- VHF radios should be monitored continuously; they are crucial for distress calls.
VHF Radio Usage
- Channel 16 is primarily for distress; misuse can lead to penalties.
- Issuing a MAYDAY involves repeating the word three times and providing critical details about the emergency.
Common Channel Frequencies
- Commonly used channels include:
- Channel 6: Intership safety communications.
- Channel 9: Vessel communications and calls to Coast Guard.
- Channel 13: Navigational communications.
- Channel 22: Coast Guard announcements and weather warnings.
- Channels 68-71: Recreational vessel communications.
Summary
- Maintain vigilance to ensure safety during weather emergencies.
- Be prepared with adequate communication tools and follow proper procedures for emergency situations.
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Description
Explore the critical concepts of weather emergencies and the necessary actions to take when navigating boats and PWCs. This quiz focuses on understanding weather changes and how to effectively summon help. Stay informed and safe on the water by reviewing these essential flashcards.
