Boating Safety Flashcards

What does the term 'dead in the water' mean for a vessel?

Answer: The vessel is stopped and has no way on

'Dead in the water' means a vessel has stopped and is not moving through the water, typically due to engine failure.

When towing a water skier, what must the boat operator have in addition to the driver?

Answer: An observer or a wide-angle rearview mirror

Alabama requires a boat towing a skier to have an observer watching the skier OR a wide-angle rearview mirror so the driver can monitor them.

Which of the following is the correct way to pass a stationary vessel with a dive flag displayed?

Answer: Stay at least 100 feet away and go slowly

When a red and white dive flag is flying, vessels must stay at least 100 feet away because divers may be in the water nearby.

What is the safest action if you are caught in a sudden storm while boating?

Answer: Put on life jackets, lower anchor if possible, and head to shore safely

Putting on life jackets, reducing speed, and calmly heading to shore while keeping low in the boat is the safest storm response.

What is the 'swim platform' rule regarding vessel propellers?

Answer: Always shut off the engine before anyone swims near the vessel

The engine must always be completely shut off before allowing anyone to enter or swim near the water around the vessel to prevent propeller injuries.

In Alabama, which waterway users have the right of way over motorized boats?

Answer: Sailboats under sail and human-powered craft

Sailboats under sail power and human-powered craft like canoes or kayaks are generally give-way vessels' priority over motorized boats.

What color is the port (left) side navigation light on a vessel?

Answer: Red

The port (left) side navigation light is red, while the starboard (right) light is green — use 'port wine is red' to remember.