|
 Common
Courtesy and Common Sense
by
Mark King
With another season
behind us, now is the perfect time to review some of the boating
skills we practised, or didn't practise, while on the water this
summer.
No one likes to think their activities on the water
disturb other boaters. But as our waterways are more crowded, the
urge to go boating and enjoy maximum pleasure in a minimum amount
of time may conflict with safety and common courtesy.
After reviewing the wake/wash issue in a previous
column (PBC Vol. 17 number 2), which is an important point of this
discussion, keep in mind there are other safe boating skills we
must know to make this sport more enjoyable and safer for all.
The two issues most often cited are skippers who
pass boats while cruising in narrow channels or that are anchored,
moored or drifting. These two issues are often twinned with excessive
speed - which is also a primary safety concern.
Overtaking While Underway
Boaters don't often realize what effect their wake/wash
has on other boats when they pass another vessel. It's always important
to realize where your wash will go. By law, you must take early
and substantial action to pass another vessel with as wide a berth
as possible. While passing in a narrow channel or cruising route,
think about slowing down until the channel widens again.
A skipper in a slow boat will often take on the
wash head on for a smoother entry and to prevent his boat from being
tossed side to side. But remember, if you are the third or fourth
boat in line to pass that particular vessel, it may be quite far
across the channel from where you originally anticipated it would
be.
Also when passing, it is your responsibility to
stay clear so you don't cause discomfort to the other boat. Remember
to use your horn (or other sound signals). They have been developed
to help communicate in overtaking situations. One short blast indicates
you want to pass on the starboard side. The boat that is being passed
should signal back with one short blast to indicate the way ahead
is clear.
Two short blasts indicate you want to pass on the
port side. The boat that is overtaken should signal in return with
two short blasts. One long blast by either vessel before or during
the procedure indicates danger. For instance, there may be a small
boat cruising off the port or starboard bow of the vessel you're
passing. (Top)
Passing Boats that are Anchored, Moored or Drifting
Many times in a wide open lake or river, we have
all seen boats cruise too close to other boats that are anchored,
moored or drifting. When cruising by one of these vessels, try to
be as far away as possible or even slow down to keep your wake/wash
to a minimum. Since the skipper or on-board guests are not as aware
as they would be while they are cruising, a large wash could rock
the boat and be a potential hazard.
For example, there could be small children playing
on board or a passenger could be using a sharp utensil while cooking
or eating in the galley. A boat may also be stopped for repairs
and someone could be using tools in a tight spot. There may even
be someone sleeping or tanning unsecured on deck. Remember boats
that are anchored or drifting are usually positioned to the wind
and current and cannot turn into your wash.
Also, there may be swimmers in the water who might
be some distance from the boat but are hard to see because of wave
action or reflections. The skipper passing is liable for damage
or injuries. According to the Careless Operation rule under the
Small Vessel Regulations, boaters can be charged if their wash causes
problems - even if it is some distance from their course. Don't
forget, wake/wash can travel a long distance.
Other issues to consider is noise or repeated cruising
in the same location, but they are not often dangerous.
This winter, be sure to make a mental note to use
common sense and exhibit courtesy for next year's season. Also,
review safety manuals to gain better insight of safe boating. After
all, we want boating to be enjoyable for everyone on the water.
(Top)
Lifeline
is produced through the Safe Boater Training Program, a certification
program for recreational boaters.
|
