by Captain Don Greene
As you navigate out into Fishers Island Sound, you look around the boat to make sure you have everything you need for a great afternoon of fishing: bait, case of coke, jug of drinking water and sandwiches for everybody.
Make sure you discuss with your guests and crew what each person will be expected to do in the event of an emergency, such as: persons overboard in the water, fishhook in the body, cuts and scrapes, sunstroke and hypothermia.
All of these situations we will cover in the next three or four monthly Resident printings along with seamanship and navigation.
Are you ready for a free vessel safety inspection? Call Donald Greene, support officer, Mystic Flotilla USCG Auxiliary at 860.608.1075. We will come to your boat and perform the inspection with you in attendance.
The U.S. Coast Guard Station, New London, calls upon the Coast Guard Auxiliary Mystic Flotilla #25-3 to provide as much training as possible for the boating public. I will cover as many topics in basic operation and navigation of your vessel as possible in the time and space available.
The increase in boat owners and boat operators on the waters of RI and CT without a boating license increases the amount of boating accidents resulting in death by drowning.
In most cases, wearing a lifejacket is the difference between a harrowing experience and a devastated family.
The boating “rules of the road” are not that much different from automobile rules. For example, keep as close as you can to the right side of the channel when you are coming in from sea.
By taking a safe boating course, you’ll learn about the importance of bouys. Here are a few things to start you off. Coming in from sea, the red buoys are even numbered starting with #R-2. The green buoys are odd numbered.
Going to sea, you bring the green buoys down your right side. When approaching a buoy stay well clear of it, at least 4 feet. If the current or wind is pushing the buoy toward you do a 360-degree visual check if, clear turn to starboard or port, increase your speed enough to clear the buoy.
Stay tuned for the next article on safe boating.
