I've put together a list of tips for first timers and pro's alike... Please take a minute to read thru this information and add to it if you there are other things that could be helpful!I've contacted the Pierce County Sheriff's office and asked them if they would take some time on Friday evening and Saturday morning to meet with our group and answer questions and provide us with a safety briefing. I'm hopeful that they will send some of their water patrol deputys over to share with us. Granted, that won't help us as we prepare in advance, but I think that it would be a great thing for us to have some one-on-one time with the water safety division.
There are a few keys to remember... There are certainly other things, but here are a few of the major ones that apply to most everyone... (These specifics might be slightly outdated, but remain good rules of thumb for all watercraft).
You Must Have Onboard...1) A Lifejacket (PFD, Coastguard Approved)
for each person onboard. Please note that the regulations may state "accessable" or "within reach". I have known some deputies to write warnings for PFD's still in the origional packaging or PDF's that are stowed in a place not easily within reach.
2) A Horn capable of producing a audible sound to be heard at a range of 1/4 mile. This regulation generally applies to boats 17' and longer, but is perfectly applicable to all watercraft. The audible device is not required to be attached to the boat. Canned air horns, emergency whistles, and other auditory hand held devices are acceptable for boats small enough to not have a factory installed horn.
3) A Coast Guard approved throwable device. In most cases, this is limited to a cushion style PFD available in most sporting goods stores. There is not a lot of other options. Please note that just because it floats and you can throw it, that does not make it a "throwable PFD" in the eyes of the state.
4) Proper documentation of ownership. I recommend a copy of your registration, but the main thing is to ensure that your hull registration sticker is current and visible on the hull.
5) A fire extinguisher... I know that the law lists a particular length under which you are not required to have one, but seriously... Bring a fire extinguisher. (They are small, and can be mounted under the dash)
Now... Some reccomendations that may not be law, but can be darn helpful!Bring a flashlight or a spotlight for navigation and emergency signaling in the dark.
For daytime emergencies, consider making a signaling flag. This can easily be done with some blaze orange fabric secured to a 3' dowel rod. This can be used as a signal flag to wave at passing boats if you need assistance.
Consider a hand pump for bilge emergencies. They can be purchased for less than $20 at most marine stores. The basic varities are a long tube with a hand pump that can syphon water out of your boat in the case of emergency.
Jumper cables, booster boxes, spare batteries, etc. are not bad ideas!
Consider a small portable tool kit. Automotive stores often carry small zippered cases with basic sockets, screwdrivers, cutting blades, tape, etc. Along with that, consider packing some zipties, ziploc baggies, spare rags, disposable rubber gloves, and anything else that you could possibly imagine could be useful to fix a 30 year old broken down motor.
Bring a spare quart of every type of fluid that your motor uses.
Bring an extra bilge drain plug
Have more than one anchor... The river current is different from lakes. Remember that if you find yourself in trouble, the current can take you a long distance in a relativly short time. If you find yourself stranded or without power, consider deploying anchors to prevent yourself from getting in a worse situation.
Bring tow rope with quick connect ends. There is nothing worse that needing a tow and not being able to find a easy to use tow rope.
If you have a belt on anything... bring an extra!
Boating while intoxicated is a crime and does apply to your driving record in the state of MN. The legal limit is .08% BAC. It is legal to comsume alcohol while boating, but please be cautious and understand the laws.
Barges are BIG, and have the right-of-way. Do not find yourself directly in front of one. If you do, you will loose, and we will miss you!
Young children must be wearing a properly fitting PFD at all times when underway in a watercraft.
For specifics on this information please consult the 2012 MN Watercraft guidebook posted by Gregg. Also, please understand that the Mississippi River is under the jurisdiction of multiple law enforcement and state agencies. The best strategy is to be overly prepared for any situation and stay safe and within the law.
Thanks everyone!
