Paddle King Lo Pro Angler Owner's Manual - page 11
To determine the size, speed and direction of other vessels at night, you should use the running lights. A green
light indicates the starboard, while a red light indicates the port side. In general, if you see a green light, you have
the right-of-way. If you see a red light, give way to the other vessel.
Whistle Signals:
Out of the water, whistle signals are commonly used. Although using a whistle signal is not
necessary every time a boat is near, operators must signal their intentions when necessary to avoid a potentially
confusing or hazardous situation. Whistle blasts must be made early enough to be noticed and understood by other
boaters.
It is customary for the privileged boat to signal first and the give way boat to return the same signal to acknowledge
she understands and will comply.
Use the danger signal (five or more short and rapid blasts) if intent is not clear. A short blast is 1 or 2 seconds long.
A long blast is 4 to 6 seconds long.
VII. Emergency Operation
Boaters should respond to emergency calls if they are nearby and can help. You are expected to proceed to the
scene and render assistance. Distress calls often are made for assistance with a disabled boat. A VHF marine
radio, channel 16, is the best device for calling for help. Two international signals are: MAYDAY (life/death
situation, request immediate assistance), and PAN PAN (safety of the boat or person in jeopardy).
The Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971 requires boat operators involved in accidents to offer aid to others in the
accident and in emergencies. The law’s “Good Samaritan” clause also absolves you from civil liability in the event
that your assistance causes bodily injury or property damage.
As a boat owner, you have accepted many responsibilities. You should know how to cope with any type of
emergency that could occur on your boat or someone else’s. Try not to panic and always use common sense.
Some tips for particular situations are listed below.
Fire or Explosion:
If a fire occurs, stop the boat immediately. Position the boat so that the fire is downwind. Boat
fires involving flammable liquids, such as gasoline, can be extinguished with your dry chemical or carbon dioxide
type extinguisher. Read the extinguisher directions and memorize them. Be prepared to use the extinguisher
quickly if the need arises.
You must decide whether to abandon ship or stay aboard and try to extinguish it. If the fire involves a trash
container, smoldering upholstery or an electrical fire, try to extinguish the blaze by aiming the extinguisher nozzle at
the base of the flame. However, a fire involving the fuel system greatly increases the danger of an explosion. If it is
necessary to abandon ship, make sure all passengers wear a PFD or take it with them before going overboard.
Fire is an immediate danger after a gasoline vapor explosion. Gasoline floats on water and can spread out over the
surface of the water. If you do abandon ship, keep yourself and your passengers clear of the burning boat.
Storms:
Storms sometimes appear very quickly and without advance notice. Weather forecasts can often be
inaccurate. Watch the horizon for approaching storms. If you are get caught in a storm and do not have time to
return to port, everyone aboard should put a PFD on and all gear should be tied down. Try to head into waves or at
a slight angle. If the weather is hazardous, you should head into the closest port available.
Fog
: Fog can form quickly as the air temperature drops, especially if the air is calm and humid. Keep the following
guidelines in mind:
•
Turn on navigation lights.
•
Instruct everyone on board to put on a PFD.
•
Have one of your passengers act as a lookout, and have the other passengers stay as quiet as possible to
listen for other boats.
•
Reduce your boat speed.