Most of this is extremely basic stuff.
I'd add: "Consider avoiding entirely that bumper-boats crowd of
inebriated hooligans out for an annual boatride and assembled near the
local fireworks barge." :-)
NEWS From BoatU.S.
Boat Owners Association of The United States
880 S. Pickett St., Alexandria, VA 22304
BoatU.S. News Room at
http://www.BoatUS.com/news/releases.asp
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Contact: Scott Croft, 703-461-2864,
Date: June 26, 2007
10 THINGS THAT COULD GET YOU INTO TROUBLE ON THE WATER
ON AMERICA'S BUSIEST BOATING HOLIDAY
The busiest boating time of the year is nearly here, the July 4th
holiday. Harbors, bays and rivers will soon be brimming with
vacationing boaters, vessels will flock to waterfront fireworks shows,
and busy marinas and launch ramps will all contribute to recreational
boating's own form of waterway rush hour.
According to the largest on-the-water towing fleet in North America,
TowBoatU.S. and Vessel Assist, over 3,800 boaters across the U.S. are
expected to call for on-the-water assistance during the holiday week -
more than any other time of the year.
The towing fleet and the BoatU.S. Foundation for Boating Safety have
teamed up to offer ten tips on how to avoid mishaps this July 4th:
· It's a long day: A full day in the in sun will increase alcohol's
effects on the body, so it's better to wait until you're safely back
at the dock or home before breaking out the libations. Also bring lots
of water, a VHF radio, and check the weather reports to avoid storms.
· It's a long day, for the boat, too: As the firework shows end, like
clockwork the TowBoatU.S. and Vessel Assist call center switchboards
light up like a Christmas tree with hundreds of boaters needing jump
starts. Running electronics all day such as sound systems, fans, or
other appliances and failing to monitor battery usage could leave your
boat dead in the water when it's time to go home.
· Running the engine to charge the batteries: Raft-ups, or groups of
boats tied together in a protected anchorage, is a great way to spend
the holiday with fellow boating friends. But you should never run an
engine with swimmers in the water or near exhaust ports. Even though
the boat's transmission may not be in gear, propellers can still
rotate, and odorless, colorless Carbon Monoxide can quickly overcome
swimmers.
· Trailer problems: The BoatU.S. Trailering Club reports that flat
tires and burnt bearings are the two biggest causes for boat trailer
breakdowns. What shape are yours in? If you'd like to post a question
about maintaining your trailer, go to http://www.BoatUS.com/trailerchat
· Don't overload your boat: Capsizing and falls overboard account for
over half of all boating fatalities. Resist the urge to invite more
friends or family to the fireworks show than what your boat was
designed to carry. Heavily loaded small boats, and those with little
freeboard such as bass boats, are more susceptible to swamping from
weather or wake action associated with heavy July 4th boating traffic.
· Wear life jackets: 70% of all fatal boating accident victims
drowned, and of those, 87% were not wearing a life jacket. Accidents
can happen very quickly, sometimes leaving no time to don a life
jacket.
· Follow the rules of the road: If a boat is approaching your vessel
from your starboard (right) side, do you know what to do? What happens
when a light on another vessel "changes" from red to green? These
answers can be found in the rules of the road section at BoatU.S.
Foundation's free online "Boater's Toolbox," at
http://www.BoatUS.com/foundation/toolbox
Brush up now before you head out.
· Patience: The lines at boat launch ramps - in the parking lot or the
water - can resemble a Southern California freeway at rush hour. Be
patient, ready to go when it's your turn, and follow good boating
etiquette.
· Take your time to get home: July 4th is the one time a year many
fair-weather boaters - who may rarely navigate in the dark - venture
out after the sun goes down. The most reported type of boating
accident is a collision with another vessel so it's a good idea to
keep your speed down, post an extra lookout, and ensure all your
navigation lights work. A spotlight is a must, and ensure all safety
gear is readily available. Be extra vigilant about not running over
anchor lines in crowded fireworks viewing areas, and don't take
shortcuts in the dark.
· Celebrate: Hey, its America's birthday and you're on the water! Be
safe, be prepared and have fun!