BOATsmart! USA Knowledge Base
Module 03 - Getting on the Water
Staying Safe in Stormy Weather
If you get caught in a storm, take the following actions:
STEP 1: Make sure every passenger is wearing a lifejacket.
STEP 2: Reduce your speed and maintain your movement forward.
STEP 3: Turn on your required navigation lights—you may not be the only boater out there.
STEP 4: Seat your passengers on the bottom of the boat, along the centerline. This will help stabilize the boat and prevent your passengers from falling overboard.
STEP 5: Stow away any loose gear. A wakeboard or fishing pole can catch the wind and fly at you or your passengers.
STEP 6: Cut through large waves at a 45° angle—this will reduce the chance of your boat being swamped by them. If you’re operating a PWC, cut through the waves at a 90° angle to help maintain lateral stability.
STEP 7: Keep the bilges free of water in order to stay well above water level (make sure you have a good bailer or working bilge pump on board).
STEP 8: If it’s safe to do so, head towards shore.
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