Severe Weather: Prepare Your Boat and Passengers

Passengers sitting in the center of the boat to avoid dangers of severe weather

If you are caught in severe weather, prepare your boat and your passengers.

To prepare the boat to handle severe weather:

Slow down, but keep enough power to maintain headway and steering.
Close all hatches, windows, and doors to reduce the chance of swamping.
Stow any unnecessary gear.
Turn on your boat’s navigation lights. If there is fog, sound your fog horn as instructed in Unit 2.
Keep bilges free of water. Be prepared to remove water by bailing.
If there is lightning, disconnect all electrical equipment. Stay as clear of metal objects as possible.

To prepare your passengers for severe weather:

Have everyone put on a USCG–approved PFD. If a PFD is already on, make sure it is secured properly.
Have your passengers sit on the vessel floor close to the centerline. This is for their safety and to make the boat more stable.

Unit 5 of 6
Topic 10 of 12
Page 3 of 5

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