Boating Safety Flashcards

What should a boater do when encountering a 'no wake' zone?

Answer: Reduce speed to idle or slow enough to produce no wake

In a no-wake zone, you must reduce speed to idle or slow enough that your vessel produces no wake that could disturb others or damage property.

What is the purpose of the vessel's bilge pump?

Answer: To remove accumulated water from the lowest part of the hull

The bilge pump removes water that has collected in the bilge — the lowest interior part of the hull — to keep the vessel from sinking.

If you witness a boating accident in Alabama, what are you legally required to do?

Answer: Stop and render assistance if you can do so safely, and report the accident

Alabama law requires any witness who can safely do so to render assistance and report boating accidents involving injury, death, or significant damage.

Which distress signal is approved for daytime use only?

Answer: Orange smoke signal

Orange smoke signals are approved only for daytime use since smoke is visible in daylight but ineffective as a visual signal at night.

What is the maximum legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for boat operators in Alabama?

Answer: 0.08%

Alabama law sets the legal BAC limit for boat operators at 0.08%, the same threshold as for motor vehicle operators.

When should you file a float plan before boating?

Answer: Whenever you go out on the water, especially for extended trips

Leaving a float plan with a responsible person on shore — detailing your route, expected return, and vessel description — is a best practice for all boating trips.

What is the recommended action when a passenger falls overboard?

Answer: Throw a life ring or flotation device, keep the person in sight, and maneuver back carefully

Immediately throw a flotation device, assign someone to keep eyes on the person, and approach carefully from downwind to execute a safe rescue.