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Recreational Boating: Stay Safe on the Water
There’s nothing quite like spending the day on your boat with family and friends. Just be sure safety is foremost in your mind. From must-have safety gear to how to safely operate a boat, check out these important boating safety tips:
1. Be prepared with a boat safety kitYou can’t always predict an emergency, so be prepared for any situation. Your boat safety kit should be kept on board no matter the size of your boat. Below are some essential items your safety kit should include.
3. Check the weather beforehandWarm, sunny days are ideal for boating, but you can’t always predict when a storm will roll in. Varying gusts of wind and choppy water are signs of an approaching storm. And even if it’s a warm spring day, the water could instead reflect winter temperatures. In the event that your boat capsizes or you and your passengers get wet, make sure you have a plan to seek help and get dry.
4. Don’t overload the boat with people or equipmentAlways follow your boat’s capacity restriction. Overloading your boat with passengers or equipment can unbalance your craft.
5. Check for harmful fumesAfter refueling your boat, open all the hatches and smell for fumes. If detected, don’t start the engine.
Carbon monoxide can accumulate in and around your boat and unexpectedly knock you or your guests unconscious. Be aware of all the places fumes and gases can accumulate, including:
7. Follow proper anchoring proceduresHaving the right anchor isn’t enough. To keep the wind from dragging your boat, you may need to drop two anchors in a V-formation at the front of the craft to keep it from drifting. To help prevent the tide from lifting your anchor, you may need to drop it in deeper water – about 20-30 feet or so.
8. Follow proper docking proceduresDepending on the wind, the current and your type of boat, docking can be a challenge. As you approach the dock or shore, make sure your bumpers are out to prevent damage to your craft, reduce your speed and make sure the docking lines are secured. If the wind is blowing towards the shore, bring the boat about two feet from the dock and the wind will gently pull it in. You can then secure it with lines. If the wind is blowing away from the shore, approach the dock at a 20- to 30-degree angle to compensate for the wind. Then secure the bow line.
9. Take a boating safety courseThe U.S. Coast Guard estimates that 70% of boating accidents are caused by operator error. Before you leave the dock, make sure you know the rules and your responsibilities. There are several online courses available, including a few free courses. The Boat US Foundation offers a free online boating safety course developed specifically for each individual state. The U.S. Coast Guard offers an additional list of online and hands-on courses for boating safety.
10. Get your boat checkedThe U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the United States Power Squadrons offer free Vessel Safety Checks. There is no charge, and there are no consequences if your boat doesn’t pass.
No matter how much you prepare to keep yourself, passengers and your boat safe, accidents can happen.
1. Be prepared with a boat safety kitYou can’t always predict an emergency, so be prepared for any situation. Your boat safety kit should be kept on board no matter the size of your boat. Below are some essential items your safety kit should include.
- Flashlight – A flashlight and extra batteries can help you see around your boat in the dark and allow you to be seen if you run out of fuel or if your craft stalls.
- Duct tape – Spring a leak? Temporarily bandage the hole with duct tape.
- Bucket – Even if the boat isn’t leaking, water may otherwise enter the vessel. A bucket can help you bail it out.
- First aid kit – A properly equipped first aid kit, plus the knowledge on how to use it, is vital in case of an accident or medical emergency.
- Whistle – As a recognized signal calling for help on the water, a waterproof whistle is another must-have.
- Ropes – These are critical for pulling someone in who has fallen overboard, securing your craft to the dock and tying down loose items in extreme weather.
- Mirror – A mirror or any reflective object can signal for help.
- Garbage bags – Use them as rain ponchos and protection for items on board.
- Fire extinguisher – Just because you’re on the water doesn’t mean you can’t have an onboard fire. All passengers should know the location of your fire extinguisher and how to use it.
- Life jackets – You should have a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket for every person on board. Read on for information on picking out the right life jackets.
- Try it on before purchasing. Fasten the vest, hold your arms straight up over your head and have someone gently pull the top of the arm opening to make sure it fits snugly.
- Auto and manual inflatable life vests can turn an unconscious wearer face up, but they require regular maintenance. They’re also not recommended for children under 16 years of age.
- If you’re going fishing, look for a life jacket with pockets and straps to easily carry tackle and supplies.
3. Check the weather beforehandWarm, sunny days are ideal for boating, but you can’t always predict when a storm will roll in. Varying gusts of wind and choppy water are signs of an approaching storm. And even if it’s a warm spring day, the water could instead reflect winter temperatures. In the event that your boat capsizes or you and your passengers get wet, make sure you have a plan to seek help and get dry.
4. Don’t overload the boat with people or equipmentAlways follow your boat’s capacity restriction. Overloading your boat with passengers or equipment can unbalance your craft.
5. Check for harmful fumesAfter refueling your boat, open all the hatches and smell for fumes. If detected, don’t start the engine.
Carbon monoxide can accumulate in and around your boat and unexpectedly knock you or your guests unconscious. Be aware of all the places fumes and gases can accumulate, including:
- Inadequately ventilated canvas enclosures
- Enclosed spaces
- Blocked exhaust outlets
- Nearby boats
- When your engine is idling, running at a slow speed or stopped
7. Follow proper anchoring proceduresHaving the right anchor isn’t enough. To keep the wind from dragging your boat, you may need to drop two anchors in a V-formation at the front of the craft to keep it from drifting. To help prevent the tide from lifting your anchor, you may need to drop it in deeper water – about 20-30 feet or so.
8. Follow proper docking proceduresDepending on the wind, the current and your type of boat, docking can be a challenge. As you approach the dock or shore, make sure your bumpers are out to prevent damage to your craft, reduce your speed and make sure the docking lines are secured. If the wind is blowing towards the shore, bring the boat about two feet from the dock and the wind will gently pull it in. You can then secure it with lines. If the wind is blowing away from the shore, approach the dock at a 20- to 30-degree angle to compensate for the wind. Then secure the bow line.
9. Take a boating safety courseThe U.S. Coast Guard estimates that 70% of boating accidents are caused by operator error. Before you leave the dock, make sure you know the rules and your responsibilities. There are several online courses available, including a few free courses. The Boat US Foundation offers a free online boating safety course developed specifically for each individual state. The U.S. Coast Guard offers an additional list of online and hands-on courses for boating safety.
10. Get your boat checkedThe U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the United States Power Squadrons offer free Vessel Safety Checks. There is no charge, and there are no consequences if your boat doesn’t pass.
No matter how much you prepare to keep yourself, passengers and your boat safe, accidents can happen.
Federal Laws United States Code
The United States Code contains a consolidation and codification of the general and permanent laws of the United States arranged according to subject matter under 50 title headings, largely in alphabetical order. It sets out the current status of the laws, as amended, without repeating all the language of the amendatory acts except where necessary. The U.S. Code is declared to be prima facie evidence of those laws. Its purpose is to present the laws in a concise and usable form without requiring recourse to the many volumes of the Statutes at Large containing the individual amendments.
United States Code Hyperlink
Subtitle II - Vessels and Seamen of Title 46Shipping is a codification of the majority of the maritime safety and seamen protection laws that are administered by the Coast Guard. The parts of Subtitle II of Title 46 of the U.S. Code pertinent to Recreational Boating Safety are:
PART A - GENERAL PROVISIONSChapter 21 - General
Chapter 23 - Operation of Vessels Generally
PART B - INSPECTION AND REGULATION OF VESSELSChapter 41 - Uninspected Vessels Generally
Chapter 43 - Recreational Vessels
PART D - MARINE CASUALTIESChapter 61 - Reporting Marine Casualties
Chapter 63 - Investigating Marine Casualties
PART H - IDENTIFICATION OF VESSELSChapter 121 - Documentation of Vessels
Chapter 123 - Numbering Undocumented Vessels
Chapter 125 - Vessel Identification System
PART I - STATE BOATING SAFETY PROGRAMSChapter 131 - Recreational boating safety
PART J - MEASUREMENT OF VESSELSChapter 141 - General
Chapter 143 - Convention measurement
Chapter 145 - Regulatory measurement
Chapter 147 - Penalties
Winter Boating Tips
As the weather gets colder and winter approaches, many boaters start preparing their boats for storage and the off-season. However, for avid boaters who love being out on the open water regardless of the temperature, boating during the winter requires some special considerations. Here are some tips for safe and enjoyable winter boating
1.Dress Appropriately
It goes without saying that dressing appropriately for the weather is critical when boating in the winter. Be sure to wear multiple layers of warm, waterproof and windproof clothing. Wool, fleece and synthetic fabrics work well as base layers to wick away moisture. A waterproof coat, snow pants, insulated rubber boots, waterproof gloves and a warm winter hat are also essentials. Having spare dry clothes easily accessible is also a good idea in case you get splashed or wet during your outing.
2. Check Weather and Water Conditions
Keep a close eye on weather reports before heading out in winter. Temperatures that are bearable on land can quickly become dangerous on the open water where wind chill is a major factor. Fog, high winds and precipitation can also make winter boating more perilous. In addition to the weather, check water conditions including wave height and if there is ice or debris that could impact navigation.
3. Winterize Your Boat
To make sure your boat is prepared for colder conditions, carry out proper winterization procedures. This includes draining water systems, adding antifreeze, checking batteries, changing lower unit oil, covering openings to prevent freezing, etc. Your engine may also need adjusting for colder temperature operation. Taking these preventative measures will avoid headaches and damage down the line.
4. Modify Your Outing Plans
Boating patterns and habits need to change when operating a vessel in winter. Stay closer to shore and pick calm, sunny days over windy, overcast ones. Let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return as an extra safety precaution. Keep speed moderate to avoid accidents and hypothermia if you end up in the water. PWCs in particular call for caution in winter since falling off into freezing water can quickly lead to dangerous situations.
5. Watch for Ice Buildup
When boating in cold conditions, ice can rapidly accumulate on any wet surface of the boat. Keep an eye out for ice on railings, ropes, lifelines, cleats and deck hardware which could lead to slippery conditions and steering/handling problems. Chip away ice accumulation regularly for smooth and safe operation.
6. Keep Bilge Free of Ice
Since water in the bilge can freeze, it’s important to pump regularly on winter outings. Built-up ice can obstruct pumps and cause pumping failures, leading to potentially major issues. Use a long screwdriver or special bilge pump icer tool to break up ice if necessary to keep water flowing freely.
7. Inspect Hull and Through-Hulls
Freezing water expanding in confined spaces can do serious damage to a boat’s hull, pipes and through-hull fittings. Inspect these areas closely for leaks and cracks before heading out mid-winter. Also check the sacrificial anodes which help prevent corrosion and electrolysis damage to the hull and components below the waterline.
8. Bring Extra Gear
Always prepare for the worst case scenario when boating in extreme conditions. Bring along extra winter clothing, rain/wind protection, blankets, hand warmers, and emergency signalling devices. Flares, floating distress flags and other equipment have shorter ranges in winter. A backup VHF radio, GPS device, torch and cell phone are also smart additions for redundancy.
9. Watch Fuel Supply Carefully
The colder temperature means boat motors use more fuel for starting and operation. Keep an eye on fuel levels and have more reserve fuel than usual for winter outings in case rough conditions prolong your trip. More idling time waiting for ramps, docks etc also consumes fuel. Fill up when the tanks are half full for the safest margin.
10. Protect Electronics
Electronics like chart plotters and fish finders can malfunction or breakdown in freezing temperatures. Cover and spray equipment displays with waterproof protectants designed specifically for marine electronics. Avoid direct wind and water exposure that can impact vulnerable electronics. Keep an emergency handheld back-up GPS on board too.
11. Take Breaks from the Cold
While enveloped in winter gear, it’s easy to forget how cold it really is on deck. Take regular breaks from the elements by heading below deck to warm up and prevent hypothermia. Have warm non-alcoholic beverages ready to help raise the body temperature again. Set up temporary windbreaks on deck if needed.
12. Bring Food and Water
The colder conditions plus cleared coves and waterways mean wintertime boat outings often last longer. Pack more food and bottled water than normal so that you’re prepared for extended trips. Thermal containers help keep food and drinks warm throughout the day. Replenishing calories is vital for maintaining body heat.
13. Watch Your Wake and Propeller
Be extra alert when boating around snowbanks, ice shelves and partially frozen areas. Boat wakes and propeller backwash can damage sensitive areas and shoreline ecosystems. Manage speed appropriately and lift propellers in shallow zones. Avoid areas marked as hazardous or protected over winter.
14. Have Proper Safety Gear
Safety equipment takes on greater importance during winter. Carry throw ropes, ice picks, flares, emergency beacons and other key items. A cold water immersion suit provides critical insulation if forced into frigid water. Let passengers know where safety equipment is located before departing dock.
15. Prepare for Post-Outing Care
Once back on land, don't ignore basic post-trip procedures. Wash down the boat thoroughly, check for damage, address leaks, charge batteries, clean gear, restock provisions etc. Winterize systems if storing for extended periods. Drain water from internal passages and pumps. Taking proper care after cold weather outings ensures your boat stays in good shape.
With the right planning and preparation, winter doesn't have to spell the end of boating season. By using good judgment and following these tips, you can safely continue enjoying trips out on the water even during the coldest months of the year. Just take things slower and implement extra precautions. With freezing temperatures comes icier conditions that demand greater care and attention. But for avid boaters, the beauty and serenity of a winter cruise can be worth the extra effort.
1.Dress Appropriately
It goes without saying that dressing appropriately for the weather is critical when boating in the winter. Be sure to wear multiple layers of warm, waterproof and windproof clothing. Wool, fleece and synthetic fabrics work well as base layers to wick away moisture. A waterproof coat, snow pants, insulated rubber boots, waterproof gloves and a warm winter hat are also essentials. Having spare dry clothes easily accessible is also a good idea in case you get splashed or wet during your outing.
2. Check Weather and Water Conditions
Keep a close eye on weather reports before heading out in winter. Temperatures that are bearable on land can quickly become dangerous on the open water where wind chill is a major factor. Fog, high winds and precipitation can also make winter boating more perilous. In addition to the weather, check water conditions including wave height and if there is ice or debris that could impact navigation.
3. Winterize Your Boat
To make sure your boat is prepared for colder conditions, carry out proper winterization procedures. This includes draining water systems, adding antifreeze, checking batteries, changing lower unit oil, covering openings to prevent freezing, etc. Your engine may also need adjusting for colder temperature operation. Taking these preventative measures will avoid headaches and damage down the line.
4. Modify Your Outing Plans
Boating patterns and habits need to change when operating a vessel in winter. Stay closer to shore and pick calm, sunny days over windy, overcast ones. Let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return as an extra safety precaution. Keep speed moderate to avoid accidents and hypothermia if you end up in the water. PWCs in particular call for caution in winter since falling off into freezing water can quickly lead to dangerous situations.
5. Watch for Ice Buildup
When boating in cold conditions, ice can rapidly accumulate on any wet surface of the boat. Keep an eye out for ice on railings, ropes, lifelines, cleats and deck hardware which could lead to slippery conditions and steering/handling problems. Chip away ice accumulation regularly for smooth and safe operation.
6. Keep Bilge Free of Ice
Since water in the bilge can freeze, it’s important to pump regularly on winter outings. Built-up ice can obstruct pumps and cause pumping failures, leading to potentially major issues. Use a long screwdriver or special bilge pump icer tool to break up ice if necessary to keep water flowing freely.
7. Inspect Hull and Through-Hulls
Freezing water expanding in confined spaces can do serious damage to a boat’s hull, pipes and through-hull fittings. Inspect these areas closely for leaks and cracks before heading out mid-winter. Also check the sacrificial anodes which help prevent corrosion and electrolysis damage to the hull and components below the waterline.
8. Bring Extra Gear
Always prepare for the worst case scenario when boating in extreme conditions. Bring along extra winter clothing, rain/wind protection, blankets, hand warmers, and emergency signalling devices. Flares, floating distress flags and other equipment have shorter ranges in winter. A backup VHF radio, GPS device, torch and cell phone are also smart additions for redundancy.
9. Watch Fuel Supply Carefully
The colder temperature means boat motors use more fuel for starting and operation. Keep an eye on fuel levels and have more reserve fuel than usual for winter outings in case rough conditions prolong your trip. More idling time waiting for ramps, docks etc also consumes fuel. Fill up when the tanks are half full for the safest margin.
10. Protect Electronics
Electronics like chart plotters and fish finders can malfunction or breakdown in freezing temperatures. Cover and spray equipment displays with waterproof protectants designed specifically for marine electronics. Avoid direct wind and water exposure that can impact vulnerable electronics. Keep an emergency handheld back-up GPS on board too.
11. Take Breaks from the Cold
While enveloped in winter gear, it’s easy to forget how cold it really is on deck. Take regular breaks from the elements by heading below deck to warm up and prevent hypothermia. Have warm non-alcoholic beverages ready to help raise the body temperature again. Set up temporary windbreaks on deck if needed.
12. Bring Food and Water
The colder conditions plus cleared coves and waterways mean wintertime boat outings often last longer. Pack more food and bottled water than normal so that you’re prepared for extended trips. Thermal containers help keep food and drinks warm throughout the day. Replenishing calories is vital for maintaining body heat.
13. Watch Your Wake and Propeller
Be extra alert when boating around snowbanks, ice shelves and partially frozen areas. Boat wakes and propeller backwash can damage sensitive areas and shoreline ecosystems. Manage speed appropriately and lift propellers in shallow zones. Avoid areas marked as hazardous or protected over winter.
14. Have Proper Safety Gear
Safety equipment takes on greater importance during winter. Carry throw ropes, ice picks, flares, emergency beacons and other key items. A cold water immersion suit provides critical insulation if forced into frigid water. Let passengers know where safety equipment is located before departing dock.
15. Prepare for Post-Outing Care
Once back on land, don't ignore basic post-trip procedures. Wash down the boat thoroughly, check for damage, address leaks, charge batteries, clean gear, restock provisions etc. Winterize systems if storing for extended periods. Drain water from internal passages and pumps. Taking proper care after cold weather outings ensures your boat stays in good shape.
With the right planning and preparation, winter doesn't have to spell the end of boating season. By using good judgment and following these tips, you can safely continue enjoying trips out on the water even during the coldest months of the year. Just take things slower and implement extra precautions. With freezing temperatures comes icier conditions that demand greater care and attention. But for avid boaters, the beauty and serenity of a winter cruise can be worth the extra effort.
Our Main Stations
USWP Natl HQ and Area of Operation Louisville KY
Our Louisville KY Station is where our National Headquarters is located. The station was opened in March 2000. It is also the main office for the USWP Mounted Patrol Team and the USWP American Red Cross Partnership Team. Our area of operation is on the Ohio River in Louisville, KY. starting at Riverview Boat ramp at MP-619.4 South to Hawesville, KY MP- 724.6 This includes the Salt River, Blue River,(86.8 mi) and North to the Florence, IN. MP- 529.2 This includes the KY River, Harrods Creek. (89.9 mi) This is also the home of our Air Unit and Mounted Patrol Team.
Regional Field Office Jacksonville FL.
Our Jacksonville FL. Station opened in 2021 Providing HLSS and PS patrols. Our area of operation is on the ST. Johns River, Ortega River, Cedar River, including the mouth of the Atlantic Ocean , Inter Costal Waterway South to Pine Island. We also have a USWP/American Red Cross Disaster Response Team here.
Our Jacksonville FL. Station opened in 2021 Providing HLSS and PS patrols. Our area of operation is on the ST. Johns River, Ortega River, Cedar River, including the mouth of the Atlantic Ocean , Inter Costal Waterway South to Pine Island. We also have a USWP/American Red Cross Disaster Response Team here.
Elizabethtown KY. Air Unit
Our Air Unit started in 2020. and we fly HLSS/PS patrols from here. If needed the Air Unit can fly Disaster Response and Emergency supply missions.
West Point KY. Salt River Field Office
Our West Point field office is a special Operations station. From here we operate on the Salt River from the mouth of the Ohio River to the Fort Knox Military Boundary. We also have our Rescue Response Team for the Lower Ohio River and this is our main Training area for our Swift Boat Team.
Harrods Creek Field Office
Harrods Creek is a Special Operations station used mainly to patrol the Harrods Creek area and Marinas. From here we assist other Agencies as needed on the upper river and conduct our operations for the yearly Thunder Over Louisville Event.
Cincinnati OH. Station
Our Cincinnati Station opened in 2009 providing HLSS/PS Patrols on the Ohio River starting from the Licking River South to Rising Sun IN. including the Great Miami River. And North to Augusta KY. including Big Run River and Little Miami River.
ST. Louis MO Station
ST. Louis MO field office opened in 2009 Providing HLSS/PS patrols on the Mississippi River starting at the Meramec River Access.
Bloomington IN. Field office
The Bloomington IN Station provides PS patrols on Lake Monroe as needed. This station is also home to a Mounted Patrol Team and is used for training.
Member Home Locations
We have a number of Volunteer Members that are on call/stand-by and does patrols as needed operating from their homes. When called they will go to designated patrol area and/or where dispatched to go using their own boats and equipment. Most of these members respond to disaster calls and are USWP/ARC members.
DISCLAIMER AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
This web site and the information it contains is provided as a public service by the U.S. Water Patrol, USWP Mounted Patrol, This system is monitored to ensure proper operation, to verify the functioning of applicable security features, and for other like purposes. Anyone using this system expressly consents to such monitoring. Unauthorized attempts to modify any information stored on this system, to defeat or circumvent security features, or to utilize this system for other than its intended purposes are prohibited and may result in criminal prosecution.
RESTRICTION OF LIABILITY
The U.S. Water Patrol makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the contents of this website and expressly disclaims liability for errors and omissions in the contents of this web site. No warranty of any kind, implied, expressed or statutory, including but not limited to the warranties of non-infringement of third party rights, title, merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose and freedom from computer virus, is given with respect to the contents of this web site or its hyperlinks to other Internet resources. Reference in this web site to any specific commercial products, processes, or services, or the use of any trade, firm or corporation name is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the U.S. Water Patrol.
This web site and the information it contains is provided as a public service by the U.S. Water Patrol, USWP Mounted Patrol, This system is monitored to ensure proper operation, to verify the functioning of applicable security features, and for other like purposes. Anyone using this system expressly consents to such monitoring. Unauthorized attempts to modify any information stored on this system, to defeat or circumvent security features, or to utilize this system for other than its intended purposes are prohibited and may result in criminal prosecution.
RESTRICTION OF LIABILITY
The U.S. Water Patrol makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the contents of this website and expressly disclaims liability for errors and omissions in the contents of this web site. No warranty of any kind, implied, expressed or statutory, including but not limited to the warranties of non-infringement of third party rights, title, merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose and freedom from computer virus, is given with respect to the contents of this web site or its hyperlinks to other Internet resources. Reference in this web site to any specific commercial products, processes, or services, or the use of any trade, firm or corporation name is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the U.S. Water Patrol.