30
Rendering Assistance
The owner or operator of a vessel is required by law to render all practical or
necessary assistance to any person or vessel affected by collision, accident or
casualty. However, you should not endanger your vessel or passengers to render
assistance.
Towing or Being Towed
In the event of a mishap or power loss you may need to tow a boat or have yours
towed. Remember you should not tow a boat larger than your own. Never tow a
boat if you are not equipped with the proper lines. Nylon ropes are
recommended. They have the strength and elasticity needed to absorb the shock
of towing and sudden jerks. Individuals should never hold a towline; always
secure it to the boat. Before towing a boat, make a bridle and tie it securely to the
stern eyes on the transom with enough slack to clear the engines. Pad the line
wherever it comes into contact with the boat to prevent chafing. Attach a tow line
to the bridle so that it can slide from side to side to prevent too much pressure on
a single pad eye. The tow line should then be attached to the bow eye or to a
bridle on the towed boat. The tow line should be a minimum of twice the length of
the towing boat, the longer the better. When passing the tow line to the other
boat do not try to run in too close. Send either a light line or attach the towline to
a life preserver to be pulled in. Beware of the other boat’s propeller. The towed
boat should always have someone at the wheel since the boat may swing off
course. Start the tow off slowly. A steady pull at a moderate speed should be
used. It is important to keep the slack out of the propeller area. Watch the action
of the towing boat. If excessive slack develops in the towline and contact is
obvious turn in either direction to avoid hitting the stern. As a precaution
passengers on both boats should stay clear of the tow line. Lines under stress
could snap and fly in either direction causing injury.
Accident Reporting
Report all boating accidents to your local authorities. Federal regulations require
boat operators that are involved in an accident to submit a written report within
48 hours. In the event of death or disappearance notification is required
immediately by phone or radio in addition to the written report. These reports can
be submitted to the State Boating Law Administrator. Forms can be obtained
through the USCG, local harbor patrol offices, sheriff and police stations.
BOATING CLASSES AND LITERATURE
Although we include some basic boating tips in this manual, a thorough review of the safety
rules and regulations for boating is beyond the scope of this text. You must complete one of the
safety courses approved by the U.S. Coast Guard or the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission
(e.g.,
http://www.myfwc.com/boating/safety-education/courses/
) prior to operating your boat. In
addition, we recommend that consult with the following agencies for further recommendations
on safe boating:
United States Coast Guard
United States Coast Guard Auxiliary