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| Boating Information and Boater's Resources |
Boating Safety, Marine Navigation
Boat Safety
Marine Navigation Aids
Boating Education
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Boating Safety and Boating Navigation
Boating education is a critical part of responsible boating. We have provided some basic boating knowledge and information for you to read and hopefully improve your
boating safety and boating skills. Even though you have been boating for a long time and are probably an experienced boater or Captain you still can learn something new about boating safely and responsibly and possibly refresh your knowledge of your states
boating laws and brush-up on USCG marine navigation aids in your area waterways. Learn what the road signs of the water are and start taking boating and boating safety serious. |
Vessel Checks, Minimum Required Equipment Knowing the legal requirements for boating is as important as understanding the rules of the road for driving. This vital information can protect the lives and well-being of your family and friends while on the water.
These pages provides basic information you need to boat safely -- whether you're a first time boater, or a seasoned operator. Find out about the equipment you need. Discover how to get a free
vessel safety check. Learn to prepare a
float plan. Make sure you and your passengers know what to do in an emergency. The fundamentals of responsible boating are the keys to keeping your time on the water safe and fun.
This boaters guide:
- Defines the minimum equipment and operating standards while afloat, as required under federal law
- Explains boat registration and numbering
- Describes the responsibilities of a boat operator
- Provides basic information on navigation
- Recommends additional equipment to enhance boating safety
- Gives tips and strategies for safe boating and emergency survival
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Boating fatalities have been decreasing since 1997, even though the
number of boats in use continues to increase."
- U.S.Coast Guard |
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MAYDAY:
Definition: The number one priority term used to define an extreme
emergency aboard a boat, when calling for help and aid. |
VHF Radio Channels
Here are the most commonly used channels of those for use on the waters of the United States:
Channel 6
Intership safety communications only
Channel 9
Communications between boats (commercial and recreational), and ship to coast
Channel 13
Strictly used for navigational purposes by commercial,
military, and recreational vessels at bridges, locks, and harbors.
Channel 16
Distress and safety calls to Coast Guard and others, and
to initiate calls to other vessels. Often called the “hailing” channel, contact the
other vessel, quickly agree to another channel, and then switch to that channel to continue conversation.
Channel 22
Used for communications between the U. S. Coast Guard and
the maritime public, both recreational and commercial. Severe weather warnings, hazards
to navigation and other safety warnings are broadcast on this channel.
Channel 24-28
Public telephone calls (to marine operator)
Channels 68, 69 & 71
Recreational boat radio channel and ship to coast
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Nautical Chart & Buoy Abbreviations
Understanding and using the U.S. Aids
to Navigation System is an important part of operating your boat safely.
The Aids to Navigation System is a
consistent way to mark the waters of the United States and its territories to
assist boaters in navigation, and alert them to obstructions and hazards. This
system serves the same function as the safety signals and signs used in driving
on streets and highways.
The U.S. Coast Guard is responsible
for the placement and maintenance of Aids to Navigation in U.S. waters. These
aids include lighted and unlighted beacons, ranges, leading lights, and buoys,
as well as sound signals associated with these aids. Below are the abbreviations
used for USCG charts and buoys. You may refer to these when viewing the navigational pages. |
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Aids To Navigation Abbreviations |
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