Watersports Tips
Operating
a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal in every
state. The U.S. Coast Guard also enforces a federal law that prohibits BUI
(boating under the influence). The laws pertain to ALL boats, from canoes
to large ships. Keep in mind that consuming alcohol is even more dangerous
on the water than on land because motion, vibration, sun, wind and engine
noise accelerate a drinker's impairment. For your safety as well as the
safety of others, don't drink while boating.
Canoeing
and kayaking are perfect ways to navigate shallow salt marshes, where
you'll find tranquility along with many types of birds, such as herons,
oystercatchers, egrets and ibis.
Wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) is
essential when water-skiing, even for expert swimmers, and is required by
law. The PFD should be Type III, approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, and
designated as a ski vest. It should fit snugly. If it is too loose, in a
fall it could slide up on the skier and pin his or her arms in a useless
position, or it could be forced completely off by the pressure of the
water.
When
romping in the ocean, if a large wave is coming and you don't have enough
time to get away from it, dive into the base of the wave just before it
breaks, keeping your body as low as possible until it passes over you. If
the water is too shallow, just crouch and keep a low body profile.
Sea turtles
are protected under the U.S. Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973. To
avoid hitting sea turtles when boating, stay alert, remain in channels
and avoid seagrass beds and reefs as these serve as feeding and resting
habitats for sea turtles.
When boating
be sure to monitor the weather reports, as weather conditions can change
quickly. NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Weather
Radio will keep you up to date. Be sure you understand the terminology
used for warnings:
NOAA Small Craft Advisory - Winds are moving at roughly 18 knots (5 knots = 5.8 miles per hour) and there might be hazardous wave conditions.
Gale Warning - Winds are moving roughly between 42 to 47 knots or there are tropical cyclones traveling 34 to 63 knots.
Storm Warning - Winds are moving at least 48 knots but could exceed that speed.
Hurricane Watch - Indicates that a storm is close enough that everyone in the area should be listening to their radios for updates and be prepared to take precautionary measures.
Hurricane Warning - Winds of 64 knots and above are expected. Precautionary measures should be implemented.
Special Marine Warning - Issued when a severe local storm or brief yet strong wind is imminent and has not been forewarned.
