Boating Regulations and Seamanship

Here are eight useful tips for safe towing

• Make sure you have a capable tow vehicle.
• Check the Tires.
• Never Overload Your Truck.
• Inspect The Brakes.
• Check your lights.
• Take it slow.
• Always be Prepared.
• Hire A Professional Towing Service.

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Divers present underwater. Steer clear.

Position your feet pointing downstream so that they hit anything before your head does.

This is a channel marker, placed on the edge of a channel. Green markers will always have an odd number on them. If you are heading upstream it should be to your left. If you are heading downstream it should be to your right. It will be opposite a red marker or bouy with an even number on it. To aid in navigating, the term "red, right, returning" is used meaning as you return from open waters (head upstream), the red marker, bouy, sign etc, should be to your right. That means the green one, in your example with a 3 on it, should be to your left. If its on your right side, you are outside the cleared channel area.

Keep out

If your boat runs aground, check to see if anyone's hurt, and render assistance as necessary.

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Five knots is roughly equivalent to 5.8 miles per hour (9.3 kilometers per hour), which is a moderate speed for a riverboat. At this speed, the boat will create some noticeable wake but will not be moving so fast that it becomes difficult to see the surroundings. For a visual representation, you can check out this YouTube clip: Boat Speed at 5 Knots.

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) classified as Type I or Type II are generally not suitable for high-impact water sports, such as jet skiing or wakeboarding. These types are designed primarily for buoyancy and visibility in calm waters, lacking the secure fit and flexibility needed for high-impact activities. Instead, individuals engaged in such sports should use Type III PFDs, which offer better mobility while still ensuring safety. Always check local regulations and guidelines for specific requirements.

All boat operators and passengers share the responsibility of maintaining general boating courtesy, which is crucial for safe boating operations. This includes adhering to navigational rules, respecting other vessels' right of way, and maintaining a safe distance from other boats. Additionally, being aware of the environment and practicing good communication with fellow boaters, such as using hand signals and horns appropriately, enhances safety on the water. Ultimately, a collective commitment to courteous behavior fosters a safer and more enjoyable boating experience for everyone.

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) are essential safety equipment on boats, as they provide buoyancy to help prevent drowning. Most states mandate that vessels 16 feet and longer carry at least one PFD for each person on board, ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Additionally, PFDs must be in good condition and readily accessible for use in emergencies. Always check local laws for specific requirements regarding PFDs.

Department of Boating and Waterways

A red flag with a white diagonal stripe in boating indicates that there are divers in the water nearby. This flag serves as a warning to other boaters to proceed with caution and maintain a safe distance to avoid endangering the divers. It's important for boaters to respect this signal to ensure the safety of those underwater.