You should be aware of any specific local hazards in the area where you will be boating.
You should have charts onboard for all areas where you boat.
If you are boating in an area for the first time, seek assistance from other boaters or marinas with local knowledge that can inform you of additional safety precautions that must be considered.
FAQs
Specific Local Hazards? ›
Local Hazards to be Wary of:
Shoaling areas (marked and unmarked) become shallow gradually and are often difficult to spot without local charts. Hazardous inlets can produce abnormal currents or changes in water levels. Abnormal tides or currents can affect your ability to properly navigate or steer your vessel.
Local Hazards to be Wary of:
Shoaling areas (marked and unmarked) become shallow gradually and are often difficult to spot without local charts. Hazardous inlets can produce abnormal currents or changes in water levels. Abnormal tides or currents can affect your ability to properly navigate or steer your vessel.
For this reason, you must keep marine charts on your boat at all times. Make sure that you consult them before entering a new waterway. Local hazards could include trees, rocks, sandbars, etc. It's also a good idea to talk to local operators.
What is the best way to find out about hazards on local waterway? ›Before paddling in new waterways, obtain local marine charts to check for hazards. If local charts are not available, ask local boaters or marinas for information.
Who is responsible for checking local hazards and the weather forecast before a boating trip? ›One thing that affects every single boating trip is the weather. Responsible boaters always remember to check the weather forecast before their trip and keep an eye on weather reports throughout their day on the water.