Boating Safety Flashcards

What action should you take if your motorboat engine catches fire?

Answer: Stop the engine and aim the stern into the wind

Stopping the engine and positioning the stern into the wind keeps flames away from passengers and fuel tanks at the bow.

What is the primary purpose of a vessel's navigation lights?

Answer: To indicate position, direction, and status to other boaters

Navigation lights communicate a vessel's position, heading, and operational status to other mariners to prevent collisions.

How far must a vessel stay from a U.S. naval vessel or military installation?

Answer: 500 yards

Federal law requires all vessels to maintain a 500-yard safe zone around U.S. naval vessels and military facilities.

What does a boater's card or safety certificate prove in Alabama?

Answer: The operator has completed an approved boater education course

Alabama's boater education card certifies that the holder has completed a state-approved boating safety education course.

Which situation requires you to give a PROLONGED blast of your horn lasting 4-6 seconds?

Answer: When approaching a blind bend or curve in a channel

A prolonged blast when approaching a bend or obstruction warns unseen vessels of your presence to prevent a head-on collision.

What is 'capsizing' in boating terms?

Answer: A vessel turning over or overturning in the water

Capsizing refers to a boat overturning so that it is upside down or on its side in the water.

When is it legal to operate a vessel under the influence (BUI) in Alabama?

Answer: Never — BUI is always illegal

Boating Under the Influence (BUI) is illegal in Alabama under all circumstances, with a BAC limit of 0.08% same as driving.