1&2 Introduction
Educational Objectives
3 The Boat
Terminology
Boat Types
Measuring Length
Hull designs
Types of hulls
Propulsion
Carbon Monoxide
Capacity Plate
Engine Systems
Checklist
Review Quiz - 3
4 Legal Requirements
Who May Operate
Registration and Numbering
Hull ID Number
Required Equipment
Personal Flotation Devices
Navigation Lights
Fire Extinguishers
Ventilation
Backfire Flame Arrestor
Sound Producing Device
Visual Distress Signals
Pollution Regulations
MSDs
No Discharge Zones
Aquatic Nuisance Species
Recommended Equipment
Review Quiz- 4
5 Preparation
Vessel Check List
Trailering
Environmental Conditions
Leeway
Tide and Current
Local Hazards
Float Plan
Preventive Maintenance
Fueling
Review Quiz-5
6 Operations
Operator responsibility
Homeland Security
BUI
Navigation Rules
Definitions
Proper Lookout
Seamanship
Sound Signals
Rules of the Road
Meeting & Crossing
Commercial Vessels
Restricted Visibility
Aids to Navigation
Review Quiz-6
7 Getting Underway
Line Handling
Docking/Undocking
Maneuvering Underway
Anchoring
Water Sports
Hunting and Fishing
Swimming
Diving and Snorkling
Paddle Sports
Skiing and Towing
Personal Watercraft
Review Quiz-7
8 Accidents
Fatal Vs Non-fatal
Accident Reports
Crew Overboard
Assistance from Shore
Hypothermia
Fires on Board
First Aid
Rendering Assistance
Running Aground
Review Quiz-8
9 Special Items
Vessel Repairs
Locks
Dams
Security
Sailing
Review Quiz-9
State Requirements
Final Exam

Chapter V - PreparationSection 3 - Awareness Of Environmental Conditions

Awareness Of Environmental Conditions

Weather

You should never leave the dock without first checking the local weather forecast. Checking the weather prior to leaving the dock is just as important in planning your trip as checking for fuel and required equipment. Special attention to weather and weather indicators can make the difference in a pleasant day on the water and potential disaster.

You can get weather information from TV, radio or from one of the weather channels on your VHF radio. At certain times of the year weather can change rapidly and you should continually keep a "weather eye" out, especially to the west, in order to foresee changes which might be impending.

There are indicators that you can look for that indicate an approaching weather change:

• Weather changes generally come from the west so scan the sky with your weather eye, especially to the west.
• A sudden drop in temperature and change in the wind often mean that a storm is near.
• If you have a barometer on your boat check it every two to three hours. A rapid drop in pressure means a storm is approaching.
• Watch for cloud build up, especially rapid vertically rising clouds. Be alert for the sound of thunder.
• Watch for lightning and rough water. Remember that boats, particularly sailboats, are vulnerable to lightning if not grounded.
• Watch the weather to the west, the direction from which most bad weather arrives. However, be observant of weather from all directions.
• Fog can create problems in inlets and bays or open water. Fog typically forms during temperature changes in early morning or evening hours and can persist for long periods.
• If your weather service has indicated that a hurricane is imminent you should not leave the dock - period. Approaching hurricanes can be identified by the "feeder bands" of rain that proceed them by 24-48 hours.
  

National Weather Service Storm  Advisories
Small Craft Advisory Winds up to 38 mph	Gale  Warning 38-54 mph	Storm Warning Up to 73 mph	Hurricane Warning Winds over 74 mph

IF A STORM IS NEAR…

• First and foremost make sure all aboard are wearing USCG approved PFDs.
• Reduce speed and proceed with caution
• Put on PFDs.
• Close all hatches and ports.
• Head for the nearest shore that is safe to approach and duck into the lee of land.
• Put the bow into the wind and waves at about a 40 degree angle and watch for floating debris.
• Pump out bilges and keep dry.
• Change to a full fuel tank.
• Secure loose items which could be tossed about.
• Keep everyone low in the boat and near the centerline.
• Minimize the danger of having your boat struck by lightning by seeking shelter in advance of a storm. If caught on open water during a thunderstorm, stay low in the middle of the boat.
• If there is lightning, disconnect all electrical equipment. Stay as clear of metal objects as possible.
• If caught in fog, be sure to sound the appropriate sound signals.
  
  

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