1&2 Introduction
Educational Objectives
3 The Boat
Terminology
Boat Types
Measuring Length
Hull designs
Types of hulls
Propulsion
Carbon Monoxide
Capacity Plate
Engine Systems
Checklist
Review Quiz - 3
4 Legal Requirements
Who May Operate
Registration and Numbering
Hull ID Number
Required Equipment
Personal Flotation Devices
Navigation Lights
Fire Extinguishers
Ventilation
Backfire Flame Arrestor
Sound Producing Device
Visual Distress Signals
Pollution Regulations
MSDs
No Discharge Zones
Aquatic Nuisance Species
Recommended Equipment
Review Quiz- 4
5 Preparation
Vessel Check List
Trailering
Environmental Conditions
Leeway
Tide and Current
Local Hazards
Float Plan
Preventive Maintenance
Fueling
Review Quiz-5
6 Operations
Operator responsibility
Homeland Security
BUI
Navigation Rules
Definitions
Proper Lookout
Seamanship
Sound Signals
Rules of the Road
Meeting & Crossing
Commercial Vessels
Restricted Visibility
Aids to Navigation
Review Quiz-6
7 Getting Underway
Line Handling
Docking/Undocking
Maneuvering Underway
Anchoring
Water Sports
Hunting and Fishing
Swimming
Diving and Snorkling
Paddle Sports
Skiing and Towing
Personal Watercraft
Review Quiz-7
8 Accidents
Fatal Vs Non-fatal
Accident Reports
Crew Overboard
Assistance from Shore
Hypothermia
Fires on Board
First Aid
Rendering Assistance
Running Aground
Review Quiz-8
9 Special Items
Vessel Repairs
Locks
Dams
Security
Sailing
Review Quiz-9
State Requirements
Final Exam

Chapter VII - Getting UnderwaySection 5 - Water Sports

Paddle Sports

Paddle sports are becoming more and more popular year after year. Whether canoeing, kayaking or white water rafting, a day on the water enjoying the thrill of the sport or leisurely enjoying the nature around you can be very satisfying. There are, however, some safety issues that should be observed.

• Take a hands on lesson before attempting your first paddling experience. You will learn balance, safe exit and entry, stabilizing strokes, and rescue and recovery skills.
• Avoid paddling in extreme conditions that are beyond your skill level.
• Know how to swim and be able to perform a "self rescue" in rivers or waters with strong currents.
• File a float plan.
• Never paddle alone. There is safety in numbers.
• Wear a lifejacket and keep it snug.
• Access you boat with 3 points of contact. Do not stand or move about excessively.
• Load the boat properly. Keep yourself and equipment low and along the centerline. Standing or moving about increases the chance of capsize.
• Pay attention to the boat's capacity plate and stay within the required limits.
• Keep your shoulders within the gunwales of the boat. If you must retrieve something from the water, reach with your paddle or get close enough to retrieve the item without leaning over.
• Avoid alcohol use.
• Always dress for an unexpected flip, wear appropriate clothing.
• Carry drinking water and use sunscreen.
• Carry required equipment and rescue gear.

Boardsailing

This relatively new but exciting sport has become more and more popular over the past few years. It, like all other on-the-water activities, can have its dangers.

You first learn the concepts of board sailing from an experienced instructor. When you are just beginning to venture into the water do so in a small confined area in light weather. Heavy winds may be fun for speed but the effort it may take to get you back to the place you started may be exhausting. Don’t overdo it.

Be sure to have a tether attached to the board in case you fall off. This allows you to get to the board prior to its drifting away from you, possibly faster than you can swim. Wear a USCG approved PFD when board sailing even if you are a good swimmer. Because of the strenuous nature of the sport you may become exhausted easily and you could get cramps which interfere with swimming. If you find yourself tiring, take down the sail, furl it around the mast, lie on the board and paddle back to safe harbor.

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