Utah 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

5.1.1 AGE RESTRICTIONS

If a motorboat (PWCs excepted) is operated by a person under the age of 16, there must be a competent adult onboard the vessel, who is at least 18 years old, to supervise. Persons 16 or older may operate without restriction.

If a sailboat is operated by a person under the age of 16, there must be a competent adult onboard the vessel, who is at least 18 years old, to supervise. Persons 16 or older may operate without restriction.

Personal Watercraft (PWC) operators must meet the following requirements:

May be operated by a person 18 years old or older without age or supervision restrictions.
May be operated by a person 16 through 17 years of age provided the operator has completed a boating education course accepted by Utah State Parks and Recreation and has in their possession the certificate issued by the course provider.
May be operated by a person 12 through 15 years of age provided the operator has completed a boating education course accepted by Utah State Parks and Recreation, has in their possession the certificate issued by the course provider, and is under the direct supervision of a responsible person who is at least 18 years old.
A person less than 18 years of age who does not meet the above requirements may not operate a PWC unless accompanied onboard and directly supervised by a responsible person who is at least 18 years old.

5.1.2 NO WAKE

A wakeless (idle) speed is defined as an operating speed at which the vessel does not create or make a wake or white water trailing the vessel. This speed is not to be in excess of five (5) miles per hour.

A wakeless (idle) speed is required within an area designated as a "Slow, No Wake" zone.

Utah's Speed and Proximity Law states that operators are required to reduce to wakeless (idle) speed when within 150 of the following:

another boat,
persons in or floating on the water,
water skiers towed by another boat,
A water skier that had been towed behind another vessel and the skier is still standing or riding in an upright stance on the wake created by the other vessel
shore anglers,
launch ramps, docks, or designated swimming areas.

The operator of a motorboat is responsible for any damage and/or injury caused by the wake produced by his vessel.

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 Utah 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 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
Someone on a surfboard

An example of violating this law 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 Utah 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

To prevent excessive noise, all motorboats must be equipped with an effective muffler system that is in constant operation. Also it is illegal to alter, remove or otherwise modify in any way a muffler or muffler system on a motorboat, in a manner that will prevent the motorboat from complying with the sound requirements listed below.

It is illegal for a motorboat to exceed a noise level of 90 decibels (if manufactured before January 1, 1993) or 88 decibels (if manufactured on or after January 1, 1993) with the measurement taken three feet three inches (one meter) to the rear of the boat when the motor is idling.
A motorboat may not be operated in a manner that will cause it to emit more than 75 decibels of noise at the shoreline.
It is illegal to manufacture, sell or offer for sale any motorboat that is not equipped with a muffler or muffling system, or does not meet the sound requirements listed above.
Exemptions from the noise muffling requirements include the following:

Motorboats registered in and actually participating in a racing event authorized by Utah State Parks and Recreation or scheduled tune-up periods prior to the racing event, or,
A motorboat being operated by a boat or engine manufacturer for the purpose of testing and/or development and the testing has been authorized by Utah State Parks and Recreation.

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 Utah:

Reckless Operation:
No person may operate any vessel, or manipulate any water skis, aquaplane, or similar device in a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.

Negligent Operation of a Vessel by a Minor:
The owner of a vessel is liable for any injury or damage caused by the negligent operation of the vessel by a minor under 18 years of age when operating his vessel with the express or implied consent of the owner.

Riding on the Bow or Other Exterior Parts of a Boat:

No one may operate a motorboat above a wakeless (idle) speed with passengers or operator sitting on seat backs, bow decking, gunwales, transom, or motor cover unless there are adequate rails that would prevent a person from falling overboard.
Passengers may not ride on the bow, except in designed seats of motorboats less than 16 feet long when operating above a wakeless (idle) speed.
Passengers may ride on the bow of a boat 16 feet or longer, except on Lake Powell, if they straddle an upright support on the rail without blocking the operator's view.

Exceeding Maximum Capacity:

It is illegal to load or power your boat in excess of the maximum capacity information stated on the United States Coast Guard capacity label or in the manufacturer's owners manual for the vessel. This includes a total weight of persons, motor, and gear, or the total number persons on board.
Each vessel manufactured after November 1, 1972, which is less than 20 feet in length, except a sailboat, canoe, kayak, inflatable vessel, or homemade motorboat must have a United States Coast Guard capacity and certification label permanently affixed to the vessel and clearly visible to the operator when boarding or operating the vessel. The capacity and certification information may be combined together and displayed on one label.
It Is Illegal to alter, deface, or remove a United States Coast Guard capacity or certification information label affixed to a vessel.

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 keeping their distance from water skiers or vessels towing someone on another device.

Not maintaining a lookout:
All operators are required to keep a constant lookout, and must constantly listen 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 it's 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 forced 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.

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

Keep your distance from military vessels

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.

MYTHS	REALITY
"A few beers won't hurt."	Even in small amounts, alcohol affects coordination and judgment. A bottle of beer, a glass of wine, or a drink of liquor all produce the same effect.
"Most drowning accidents result from swimming."	More than 60% of drowning accidents occur after the victim accidentally falls off a dock, shoreline or vessel into the water. Autopsies show that more than one-third of the victims of such falls (mostly men) were impaired by alcohol at the time of the accident.
"Drinking alcohol while operating a boat is not a serious offence."	Operating a boat while intoxicated is just as dangerous as operating a car in that condition. The marine authorities are equipped with Breathalyzers. If the results are positive, the police may lay charges.
"There's no harm in drinking alcohol on the beach before swimming."	Alcohol affects judgment. The person drinking can easily overestimate their abilities or misjudge a risk they would not take under normal circumstances. Furthermore, it is illegal to drink in some public places, such as a beach or a dock.
Source: "Water and alcohol—myths and realities." Red Cross Society"

5.2.2 SERIOUS PENALTIES

Utah law prohibits a person under the influence of alcohol or drugs to operate a boat. This is enforced in two ways:

If the person is under the influence of alcohol or any drug or the combined influence of alcohol and any drug to a degree, which renders the person incapable of safely operating a vessel; and/or,
Utah's legal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) level is .08 grams per liter. Alcohol concentration in the blood shall be based upon grams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood, and alcohol concentration in the breath shall be based upon grams of alcohol per 210 liters of breath.

Conviction of Boating Under the Influence (BUI) may result in the loss of your motor vehicle driver license, a fine, mandatory jail sentence, community service work, and rehabilitation assessment.

The operator of a motorboat may not have an open container of an alcoholic beverage while the boat is in operation.

Anyone under the age of 21 may not have any measurable amount of alcohol in his or her body in order to operate a motorized vessel.

A person operating a boat on Utah waters is considered to have given consent to take any chemical test requested by a peace officer who feels the person has been operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Refusal to take a chemical test is admissible in any civil or criminal action or proceeding, and may result in the loss of you motor vehicle driver license.

The arresting officer can seize and impound the offender's boat, trailer and tow vehicle.

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: