Nevada Safe Boating Course

CHAPTER 5: Safe Boat Operation

5.1 OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Ultimately, the boat operator is responsible for the safety and activity of all passengers. Additionally, the boat operator must respect other boaters and property. Before casting off, the operator should:

• Complete a pre-departure checklist to avoid emergencies later
• Ensure the vessel is cared for, is in good working order, and is seaworthy
• Ensure all passengers are properly seated and comfortable with the safety equipment and procedures in case of emergency
• File a float plan, particularly for lengthy trips or those in unfamiliar waters
• Check local hazards
• Check local weather forecast and conditions
• Life jackets are on

5.1.2 NO WAKE

"No wake" is defined as "The slowest possible speed required in order to maintain steerage and headway."

In Nevada, it is unlawful to operate any motorboat or personal watercraft at greater than "no wake" speed:

 

• When within 200 feet or less of docks, marinas, piers, moorages, boathouses, and boat ramps;
• When within 100 feet of a swimmer;
• When within 100 feet of someone engaged in towed watersports (i.e. waterskiing)

5.1.3 COURTESY

Other boaters and property owners wish to enjoy the water as well. As a courtesy to other boaters, swimmers and property owners, be sure to monitor your wake, noise level and boat speed around other boats and shoreline properties. You are responsible for any damage caused by your wake. Be sure to take the time to review proper safety and operation procedures if you let someone else operate your boat. Be particularly mindful of your boat noise in the early morning and late evening. Leave the water as you found it: clean up any waste you encounter and be sure to collect any of your own waste in a garbage bag and dispose of it properly once you get to shore.

5.1.4 SLACKEN SPEED

Operators in Nevada must reduce speed to avoid endangering persons or property from the effect of their vessel's wake. Reduce speed when approaching or passing the following:

• Vessels underway, lying to, at anchor, or made fast to the shore
• Piers, docks, or boathouses
• Someone in the water
• Someone involved in towed water sports or on a surfboard

Certain bodies of water in Nevada may have local restrictions as to type and size of vessel or motor horsepower, restricted use areas, boat speed, and times for use. Check with the local authorities for these additional restrictions.

5.1.5 MUFFLERS AND NOISE LEVELS

In Nevada waters, motorboats are required to have a mechanical means of reducing (muffling) the engine exhaust sound level.

With exceptions for vessels participating in permitted regattas, boat races or speed trials – the use of cutouts and exceeding the following exhaust sound levels are illegal:

 

• 86 dbA when measured from a minimum distance of 50 feet from the vessel as defined by SAE J34 or,
• 90 dbA when measured using a stationary sound level test as defined by SAE J-2005 if the engine was manufactured before January 1, 1993 or,
• 88 dbA when measured using a stationary sound level test as defined by SAE J-2005 if the engine was manufactured on or after January 1, 1993 or,
• 75 dbA measured from the shoreline using a stationary sound level test as defined by SAE J-1970.

Noise Level Test: A peace officer may require an operator to submit his or her vessel to an on-site noise level test to determine compliance with state noise levels.

88 dbA when measured using a stationary sound level test as defined by SAE J-2005 if the engine was manufactured on or after January 1, 1993 or,

5.1.6 NEGLIGENCE

Any type of boating vessel demands an operator's respect and attention. Careless or reckless behavior aboard any vessel can result in dangerous consequences. A boat is not a toy. Enjoy your boating experience, but be mindful of the power of many vessels and the inherent dangers that water presents.

5.1.8 HOMELAND SECURITY MEASURES

Federal, state and local governments have enacted specific measures since the events of September 11, 2001, to help deter unlawful or dangerous operations on our nation's waterways. Homeland Security Measures violations can result in severe consequences. Please be aware of the following Homeland Security Measures, and act accordingly to keep our waterways safe and secure:

• Do not approach closer than 100 yards from all military, cruise-line, or commercial shipping vessels.
• Slow to "no wake" speed within 500 yards of any large U.S. Navy vessel
• Observe and avoid all security zones.
• Avoid areas with military, cruise-line, or petroleum facilities.

FOR INFORMATION in port areas, you can call 1-800-682-1796, visit http://www.uscg.mil/safeports/, or check with local authorities.

• Observe other restricted areas near dams, power plants, etc.
• Do not stop or anchor beneath bridges or in channels.
• Report any suspicious activity immediately to local authorities, the U.S. Coast Guard, or marine security personnel, or call the National Response Center's Terrorist Hotline at 1-800-424-8802.
• Do not approach or challenge those acting in a suspicious manner, and never confront the suspicious party.
• Ensure your boat is always locked and secured when unattended, and always take the boat keys with you.

5.2 INFLUENCE OF DRUGS AND ALCOHOL ON BOAT OPERATION

5.2.1 DRIVE SOBER

Because of the fatiguing effects of the sun, wind and the motion of the boat, one drink on board is like three on shore! This means if you are drinking at all, then you should not be operating a boat or PWC. Do not jeopardize your safety or the safety of other boaters or the passengers in your care. Your balance, vision, coordination and judgment are all affected adversely by the consumption of even one alcoholic drink. Coupled with environmental elements (sun, glare, wind, motion), alcohol can have very serious consequences on the water. Please be responsible when operating your boat. If you are operating a vessel, you should avoid alcohol consumption.

5.2.2 SERIOUS PENALTIES

Nevada law prohibits the operation of a powerboat, sailboat, personal watercraft (PWC), water skis, sailboard, or similar device under the influence of drugs or alcohol. A boater can be charged with Operating Under the Influence (OUI) under the following conditions:

• He/she has a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of .08% or more.
• He/she is under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance to a degree that renders him/her incapable of safely operating the vessel.

Nevada law imposes serious penalties for Operating Under the Influence (OUI):

• OUI convictions may face up to 6 months jail time and fines up to $1,000 plus court costs and testing fees.
• If an operator in convicted of OUI that results in the death or serious injury to another person, he/she will face felony charges that are punishable by fines up to $5,000 and imprisonment for up to 20 years.

Operators on Nevada waters have given "implied" consent to evidentiary alcohol testing if an officer has reasonable suspicion. There is no right to refuse the test.

5.3 CARBON MONOXIDE: PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THIS SILENT KILLER

Carbon monoxide can collect within, alongside or behind a boat in minutes and in a variety of ways.

5.3.1 AVOID THESE DEATH ZONES!

Do not swim near or under the back deck or swim platform. Carbon monoxide from exhaust pipes of inboard engines, outboard engines and generators build up inside and outside the boat in areas near exhaust vents. STAY AWAY from these exhaust vent areas and DO NOT swim in these areas when the motor or generator is operating.

On calm days, wait at least 15 minutes after the motor or generator has been shut off before entering these areas. NEVER enter an enclosed area under a swim platform where exhaust is vented, not even for a second. It only takes one or two breaths of the air in this "death chamber" for it to be fatal.

EXHAUST FUME DANGERS

Blockage of exhaust outlets can cause carbon monoxide to accumulate in the cabin and cockpit area—even when hatches, windows, portholes and doors are closed.

Exhaust from another vessel that is docked, beached, or anchored alongside your boat can emit poisonous carbon monoxide gas into the cabin and cockpit of your boat. Even with properly vented exhaust, your boat should be a minimum of 20 feet from the nearest boat that is running a generatoror engine.

Slow speeds or idling in the water can cause carbon monoxide gas to accumulate in the cabin, cockpit, bridge, and aft deck, even in an open area. A tailwind (force of wind entering from aft section of the motorboat) can also increase accumulation.

The "station wagon effect," or backdrafting, can cause carbon monoxide to accumulate inside the cabin, cockpit and bridge when the boat is operating at a high bow angle, with improper or heavy loading, or if there is an opening that draws in exhaust. This effect can also cause carbon monoxide to accumulate inside the cabin, cockpit, aft deck, and bridge when protective coverings are used and the boat is underway.

Teak surfing, dragging and water skiing within 20 feet of a moving watercraft can be fatal.

5.3.2 WHAT TO DO

• The best precaution against carbon monoxide poisoning is to keep air flowing through the vessel.
• Educate your passengers about carbon monoxide so they are aware of what the early poisoning signs are.
• If your boat has a rear-vented generator exhaust, check with the boat manufacturer for possible recall, or reroute the exhaust to a safe area.
• Assign an adult to watch when anyone is in the water.
• Schedule regular engine and exhaust system maintenance inspections by experienced and trained technicians.

• Keep forward-facing hatches open, even in inclement weather, to allow fresh air circulation in living spaces. When possible, run the boat so that prevailing winds will help dissipate the exhaust.

• Do not confuse carbon monoxide poisoning with seasickness, intoxication or heat stress.
• If someone aboard complains of irritated eyes, headache, nausea, weakness or dizziness, immediately move the person to fresh air, investigate the cause, and take corrective action. Seek medical attention, if necessary.
• Install a carbon monoxide detector in each accommodation space on your boat. Check detectors before each trip to be sure they are functioning properly. If the detector goes off, believe it!

5.3.3 FACTS ABOUT CARBON MONOXIDE

Carbon monoxide is a potentially deadly gas produced any time a carbon-based fuel, such as gasoline, propane, charcoal or oil, burns. Sources on your boat include gasoline engines, generators, cooking ranges, and space and water heaters. Cold or poorly tuned engines produce more carbon monoxide than warm, properly tuned engines.

Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless and tasteless, and it mixes evenly with the air. It enters your bloodstream through the lungs and displaces the oxygen your body needs. Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning— irritated eyes, headache, nausea, weakness and dizziness—are often confused with seasickness or intoxication. Prolonged exposure to low concentrations or very short exposure to high concentrations can lead to death.

Each year, boaters are injured or killed by carbon monoxide. Most incidents occur on older boats and within the cabin or other enclosed areas. Exhaust leaks, the leading cause of death by carbon monoxide, can allow carbon monoxide to migrate throughout the boat and into enclosed areas. New areas of concern are the rear deck near the swim platform with the generator or engines running, and teak surfing or dragging behind a slow-moving boat. Regular maintenance and proper boat operation can reduce the risk of injury from carbon monoxide.

5.3.4 PREVENTION CHECKLISTS

ALL CARBON MONOXIDE POISONINGS ARE PREVENTABLE!

CHECKLIST: EACH TRIP

• Educate all passengers about carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Make sure all exhaust clamps are in place and secure.
• Look for exhaust leaking from exhaust system components, indicated by rust and/or black streaking, water leaks, or corroded or cracked fittings.
• Inspect rubber exhaust hoses for burned or cracked sections. All rubber hoses should be pliable and free of kinks.
• Confirm that water flows from the exhaust outlet when the engine and generator are started.
• Listen for any change in exhaust sound that could indicate an exhaust component failure.
• Test the operation of each carbon monoxide detector by pressing the test button. Make sure the battery is installed properly and is in good condition. Never remove the battery unless you are replacing it with a new battery.
• Move seated passengers around the boat periodically to prevent any one from continuously being near any fumes.

CHECKLIST: AT LEAST ANNUALLY

• Replace exhaust hoses if you see any evidence of cracking, charring or deterioration.
• Inspect each water pump impeller and the water pump housing, and replace them if they are worn. Make sure cooling systems are in proper working condition to prevent overheating and possible burning of the exhaust system. (Refer to the engine and generator manuals for further information.)
• Inspect each of the metallic exhaust components for cracking, rusting, leaking or loosening. Pay particular attention to the cylinder head, exhaust manifold, water injection elbow, and threaded adapter nipple between the manifold and the elbow.
• Clean, inspect and confirm proper operation of the generator cooling water anti-siphon valve (if equipped).

THE ANNUAL CHECKLIST TEST MUST BE PERFORMED BY A QUALIFIED MARINE TECHNICIAN.

5.4 PROPELLER INTERVENTION AND AWARENESS

Rotating at great speeds and with a lot of power, the potential danger posed by boat engine propellers should not be overlooked. Each year hundreds of Americans accidentally come into contact with moving propeller blades. In 2006 alone, the US Coast Guard reported, 234 people struck by propellers with 28 fatalities.

Since the propeller is located below the waterline and may be difficult to see, it is important that people are at all times aware of the propeller. This is most important when in the water near the rear of a vessel or on the swim platform. As a precaution, operators should shut off the engine whenever a person is in the water within close proximity to their vessel.

Safety equipment is available and when used properly can significantly decrease the probability of a propeller strike. Common examples of equipment are:

• Propeller guards
• Ladder interlock kill switches
• Man over board cut-off switches
• Lanyard engine kill/stop switches

CHAPTER 5 SUMMARY

AFTER READING CHAPTER 5, YOU SHOULD HAVE KNOWLEDGE OF:

• Operator responsibilities, and safe and unsafe practices on the water
• The influences of drugs and alcohol on boat operation
• The enforcement of the federal and state laws regarding boating

Nevada Safe Boating Course