18
Section II: Boating Skills
Development of boating skill will depend on practice, study and observation.
The skillful boat operator will learn to sense when in the interest of safety a
change of speed or course is necessary. He will gradually gain an instinctive
touch in protecting his boat from strain, stress and avoiding possible
hazardous situations.
Until you are capable of knowledgeable weather forecasting, get in the habit of
checking your local newspaper, radio and TV broadcasts, consulting operators of
local marinas or placing a call to the nearest Coast Guard Station or airfield
to get up-to-date information on marine weather forecasts.
Small Craft Warnings
If small craft warnings are broadcast for the boating area, or if storm warning
signals are displayed, don't go boating just because the sky seems clear. Learn
to respect the weather and its consequences.
Water Surfaces Give Clues to Depth
Make it a practice to study the water ahead. Deeper water is usually darker in
color and shallow water is lighter.
Ripples will build up more easily in a light breeze on water flowing over
shallows than it will in deep water. Usually, disturbed water marks the
location of underwater obstacles.
In navigable rivers, deeper water will be found on the outside of bends. At
curved sections, mud and sand bars are more likely to build up on the inside
curves.
A. BASIC RULES
Knowing the "Rules of the Road" (see back cover) is a legal requirement of all
boatmen. "Rules" are a combination of common sense principles blended with
courtesy. Courtesy involves a recognition of the other fellow's rights, comfort
and safety.
Speed limit signs are usually found at or near boat anchorage or swimming
areas.
You are expected to keep clear of boatmen engaged in fishing or swimming.
Avoiding persons engaged in water skiing or scuba diving is of prime
importance.
The privilege to use public waters carries with it an obligation to operate
your boat in a safe and courteous manner.
A cardinal principle of boating requires that you be ready at all times to
render assistance to other craft in need of aid.
If your passengers decide to swim, take a personal inventory from time to time.
Use the "buddy system" with passengers paired off, each responsible for the
other. Don't let swimmers stray too far.
CAUTION! Swim only in known waters, when the boat is securely anchored. Keep
one person, who understands the operation of the boat, on board at all times.
It is good practice to tell some responsible persons where you are going and
when you expect to return (both night and day.)
