Tidewater: Navigational Safety and Procedures

What belongs in a float plan

• Describe the vessel: Registration #; length, make, horsepower, engine type

• List of all passengers and their dietary restrictions

• Weather forecast for the duration of the trip

• Emergency procedures for onboard medical issues

Pre Departure Checklist

• Weather

• Fuel consumption

• Navigation charts

• Emergency contacts

Where must you wear a PFD on the Penobscot River?

• the Gorge to the head of Big Eddy

• the calm waters of the lower river

• the area near the dam

• only during whitewater rafting

If someone falls overboard

• Reduce speed and toss a throwable PFD

• Increase speed and continue on course

• Turn off engine and leave the victim behind

• Approach the victim from the front

Three rules of navigation

• Practice good seamanship

• Always sail at night

• Use only GPS for navigation

• Ignore weather conditions

PFD requirements if being towed

• Must wear a PFD that is inflatable.

• Must wear a PFD that is not inflatable.

• PFD is optional if being towed.

• Must wear a PFD only during the day.

Who does not need a Maine Registration and Validation Stickers?

• Motorboats owned by the US Gov

• All motorboats require registration

• Personal watercrafts

• Sailboats with a valid sailing permit

On maine waters when do you not need an extinguisher?

• If the vessel is <26' and not carrying passengers for hire

• If the vessel is <30' and constructed of wood

• If the vessel is <25' and has a closed cabin

• If the vessel is <28' and carrying less than 5 passengers

Oil and Hazardous substance discharge

• Can be discharged into the water.

• Must be disposed at an approved reception facility.

• Can be discharged into the bilge w/out a means for proper disposal.

• If vessel >=26' must display a 5x8 plaque w/ Federal Water Pollution Control Act's Laws.

When may you tow someone on a boat?

• From sunrise to sunset

• Half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset

• Only during the day

• At any time during the night