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Safe Boating

July
9
Safe Boating
Comments Off on Tips on Understanding Channel Markers

Tips on Understanding Channel Markers

You probably know “Red Right Return” as a basic rule of navigation, but there are more than a hundred different navigation marker variations in U.S. waterways. Here is a rundown on the most common aids in all navigable waterways except Western rivers. Learn to identify them on the chart and... Continue reading
June
13
Safe Boating
Comments Off on Tips on Boating Safely in the Fog

Tips on Boating Safely in the Fog

Fog can develop quickly, reducing visibility to just a few yards and leaving you confused about your boat’s position and the obstructions around you.  Limited visibility raises the risk of a collision, so it’s important to adapt to the conditions and take preventive action.  Here are 5 steps to remember... Continue reading
May
22
Safe Boating
Comments Off on How to Use That Little Red “Distress” Button on Your VHF Radio

How to Use That Little Red “Distress” Button on Your VHF Radio

It’s called DSC (Digital Selective Calling), and it allows today’s VHFs to send an automated mayday that alerts the Coast Guard and other vessels to your emergency. The idea is that the red button is pre-programmed with information about your boat so that, in the event of a life-threatening situation,... Continue reading
April
7
Safe Boating, Spring Maintenance
Comments Off on Getting Your Boat Ready for Spring: Safety Equipment and Paperwork

Getting Your Boat Ready for Spring: Safety Equipment and Paperwork

We've written a lot this off-season about structural and mechanical items to consider before your boat is launched.  We've begun launching season, so it's time to make sure the all the details are considered.  Like compliance and paperwork.  Today, let's check the glovebox and safety locker. Be sure that you've... Continue reading
August
31
boat usage, boating, Safe Boating
Comments Off on Forget About the Sharks. How About the Jellyfish?

Forget About the Sharks. How About the Jellyfish?

Unusually warm ocean waters around the Northeastern U.S. have brought a surge in the man-o-war jellyfish population. These are the ones that float on the surface - looking kind of like partially inflated plastic bags - with poisonous tentacles that dangle below the water. Swimmers or beachcombers that get too... Continue reading
July
24
Safe Boating
Comments Off on Oh #!*&@! You’ve Run Aground!

Oh #!*&@! You’ve Run Aground!

Sooner or later, if you use your boat, you will have an unexpected encounter with the bottom. Just knowing that it happens to everyone can help, preventing you from doing something rash to save face in the heat of the moment. So, after the intial "Oh #!*&@!" what should you... Continue reading
July
10
boat usage, Safe Boating
Comments Off on File a Float Plan

File a Float Plan

“What are the most important things I can do to ensure my safety on the water?” Ask any seasoned boater, maritime professional or emergency responder and one of the top answers will be: “File a Float Plan.” Simply put, a float plan lets concerned parties know where you are, when... Continue reading

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