Boating Emergencies

How to respond to boating emergencies and keep safe on the water.

Boat Accident Reporting Requirements in Ohio

All boat operators in Ohio are required to follow state boat accident reporting laws and requirements. How to Report a Boat Accident in Ohio Ohio’s boat accident reporting requirements state that boat operators who are involved in a collision or boat accident are required to: Stop their boat at the scene. Render assistance to any […]

Boat Accident Reporting Requirements in Pennsylvania

A boat operator involved in a boating accident is required to: Stop their boat at the scene. Render assistance to any person who has been injured or who is in danger so long as they can do so without risking their safety or their passenger’s safety. Provide their name, address and boat information in writing, […]

Boat Accident Reporting in Florida

What to do if you’re involved in a boat accident An operator involved in a boat accident is required to: Stop their boat at the scene of the accident. Assist any person in distress, or who has been injured, so long as they are able to do so without risking the safety of their passengers […]

Kentucky’s Boat Accident Reporting Requirements

Kentucky boat accident reporting requirements state that a boat operator involved in an accident is required to: Stop their boat at the scene. Render assistance to any person who has been injured or who is in danger so long as they can do so without risking their safety or their passenger’s safety. Provide their name, […]

Stages of Hypothermia and Cold Water Survival

Hypothermia If suffering a person is suffering from hypothermia, their core body temperature will drop below normal levels. This results in weakened muscular functions, reduced co-ordination and slow mental functions. A person suffering from hypothermia will exhibit progressive symptoms including: Early Stage The victim is still conscious Shivering Slurred speech Intermediate Stage The victim may […]

Running Aground Emergencies

Running Aground If your boat has run aground, follow the steps below: Step 1) Determine whether passengers and the vessel are in danger. Step 2) Immediately shift the motor to neutral. Step 3) Visually and/or verbally confirm that all passengers are present and accounted for. Step 4) Ensure that everyone is wearing a life jacket […]

Hypothermia and Cold Water Immersion

Hypothermia Hypothermia is a drop in core body temperature, caused by prolonged exposure to abnormally low temperatures, such as immersion into cold water. Hypothermia can be caused by: Immersion in cold water Exposure to cold air and wind while in water-soaked clothing Prolonged exposure to low water and air temperatures Hypothermia sets in when core […]

Distress Signals

Understanding and Using Distress Signals Pleasure craft operators must be able to recognize, use and properly exhibit distress signals as required by the Small Vessel Regulations. Depending on the size of your craft, and whether you are operating a power or sail-driven vessel, you are required to carry certain types of distress signals. Remember: It is […]

Collisions and Abandoning Ship

Collisions If your boat has been involved in a collision, perform the following: Step 1) Ensure that everyone is wearing a life jacket or PFD. Step 2) Visually and/or verbally confirm that all passengers are present and accounted for. Step 3) Determine if there are other craft in the vicinity that may offer assistance. Step 4) […]