Ohio 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

5.1.2 IDLE OR NO WAKE SPEED

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

Under no circumstance shall a person operate their vessel above idle speed or create any measurable amount of wake if:

 

• Operating in any area marked as a "no wake" zone
• Operating within 300 feet of any of the following:
• Marina, boat docking facility, boat gasoline dock, launch ramp, recreational boat harbor, harbor entrance on Lake Erie or on the Ohio River.
• Operating a vessel that is not documented by the U.S Coast Guard as a commercial vessel on the Ohio River between the Dan Beard and Brent Spence bridges during the hours of sunset to sunrise.

Note: Be sure to contact local authorities before operating on Ohio state park lakes as they often have unmarked no wake zones within 100 or 300 feet from the shoreline.

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 Ohio must reduce speed to avoid endangering persons or a person's property from the effect of their vessels' wake. Reduce speed when approaching or passing the following:

• Vessels under way, lying to, at anchor, or made fast to the shore
• Piers, docks, and boathouses
• Someone in the water
• Someone waterskiing or otherwise being towed
• Someone on a surfboard

An example of violating this would be if your boat runs over, or into, an object because you are traveling too fast to stop in time.

Certain bodies of water in Ohio 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

All motorized vessels shall be equipped with a muffler or muffler system that is in good working order, in constant operation and effectively installed to prevent excess noise.

Motorized vessels may not be operated in a manner to exceed the following noise levels when measured on the "A" scale:

 

• 90 decibels during a stationary sound level test prescribed by SAE J2005. (at low idle speed while at dock or tied to another vessel, measured at 1 meter from the engine)
• 75 decibels when measured from shore at any level of operation as specified by SAE J1970.

It is illegal to remove, alter or modify a muffler to the extent that it no longer complies with this section.

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.

5.1.7 UNSAFE PRACTICES

The following acts and maneuvers are considered dangerous & illegal while boating in Ohio:

• Reckless Operation. It is illegal to operate a vessel in a manner that endangers the ability to conserve the safety, rights or property of others. The following are a few examples:

• Causing a wake which can potentially harm persons or property.
• Jumping the wake of a vessel unnecessarily close to another vessel or becoming airborne while crossing a vessels wake when within 100 feet of that vessel.
• Failing to conform to boating signage such as posted speeds, indicated restricted entry zones, diver or skier down flags, etc.
• Operating in a manner that causes your propeller to strike (or nearly strike) a person in the water.

Note: Vessels must stay at least 300 feet from displayed diver down flags

• Operating at an unsafe speed. Boaters must always operate their vessel at a safe speed as discussed earlier in this chapter as well as adhering to any indicated speed limitations.
• Failing to maintain adequate distance. Boaters must maintain the designated 'no wake' speed in the circumstances discussed above as well as operating at a distance of at least 200 feet from water skiers or vessels towing someone on another device.

• Exceeding maximum capacity. The recommended capacity indicated on the boats' capacity plate should not be exceeded.
• Not maintaining a lookout. All operators are required to keep a constant lookout for other vessels and/or people in the water.
• Dangerous operation. Boaters must make sure that the vessel is being operated in such a manner that its occupants or others sharing the water are not in any danger. If an officer observes that someone's safety may be endangered, the operator may be ordered to head to the closest moorage. Examples of such operation could be: operating without all the required equipment, operating the vessel with more power than recommended, or operating the vessel with a fuel leak.

• Not maintaining proper seating regulation aboard your vessel. In Ohio, it is unlawful to allow any person to ride or sit on the bow, gunwales, transom, or on the decking over the bow of the vessel while underway unless such a vessel is provided with adequate guards or railing to prevent passengers from falling overboard. Passengers or other persons aboard a vessel may occupy these areas of the vessel to moor or anchor the vessel, to cast off, or for any other necessary purpose.
   

For obvious safety reasons it is recommended that boaters do not stop or anchor beneath bridges or in a channel.

 

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.

5.1.9 LAW ENFORCEMENT IN OHIO

Within the area of their jurisdiction, every sheriff, deputy sheriff, marshal, deputy marshal, municipal police officer, township police constable, game protector, park or conservancy district officer, or other law enforcement officer may enforce the state watercraft laws and has the authority to stop, inspect and board any recreational vessel.

No person shall fail to comply with any lawful order of an officer having authority to direct or regulate the operation or use of vessels. A boat operator shall not purposely elude or flee from an officer after a visible or audible signal to bring the vessel to a stop is given.

Upon the approach of a law enforcement vessel with a blue flashing light, the operator of any vessel shall stop or give-way in any situation until the law enforcement vessel has passed.

No person shall permit operation of a vessel in violation of this section.

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

A boat operator with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or more is considered to be intoxicated and boating under the influence (BUI). Ohio law establishes the following penalties for boating while intoxicated:

Penalty for Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs
Offense	Minimum	Maximum
First	3 days in jail; $150 fine	6 months in jail; $1,000 fine
Second	10 days in jail; $150 fine	6 months in jail; $1,000 fine
Third	30 days in jail; $150 fine	6 months in jail; $1,000 fine

By operating a vessel on Ohio waters, you have consented to an alcohol test if asked by a law enforcement officer. Refusal to undergo testing is an offense in itself and may lead to a loss of operating privileges for up to six months as well as fines.

"Zero Tolerance" prohibits persons younger than 21 years of age from consuming alcohol and operating a vessel with any measurable alcohol level above 0.02%.

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.

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

Ohio Safe Boating Course