Boat Operation & Maneuvering Flashcards
7 cards from real Boating Certification Test practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Boat Operation & Maneuvering flashcards as text
What is the primary cause of 'hypothermia' risk in boating accidents, and what is the recommended first action for a person recovered from cold water?
Answer: Cold water immersion sapping body heat; handle gently, keep horizontal, and apply external warmth
Cold water removes heat up to 25 times faster than cold air; victims should be handled gently (rough movement can trigger cardiac arrest) and warmed gradually.
When two vessels are in a crossing situation, which vessel is the 'stand-on' vessel?
Answer: The vessel that has the other on its starboard side
In a crossing situation, the vessel that has the other vessel on its starboard side is the stand-on vessel and must maintain course and speed.
What is 'leeway' in nautical terms?
Answer: The sideways drift of a vessel caused by wind or current acting on its hull
Leeway is the lateral drift of a vessel away from its intended course due to the force of wind or current pushing against the hull and superstructure.
What is the safest procedure when someone falls overboard?
Answer: Shout 'man overboard,' throw a flotation device, keep the victim in sight, and maneuver to recover them
Immediately throwing a PFD or life ring gives the victim flotation, keeping eyes on them prevents losing sight, and a controlled approach prevents propeller strikes.
What is the function of a 'depth sounder' (fish finder/depth finder) for safe navigation?
Answer: It measures water depth to warn of shoaling or potential grounding hazards
A depth sounder uses sonar to continuously measure water depth beneath the hull, alerting the operator to decreasing depth before grounding occurs.
When mooring to a dock in a strong beam wind (wind blowing perpendicular to the dock), what is the best technique?
Answer: Approach at a steep angle into the wind with lines ready, using the wind to set you against the dock
In a beam wind, approaching at a steep angle from upwind and letting the wind carry the bow to the dock gives you control while using the wind as a tool.
What does a vessel display to indicate it is engaged in diving operations and that other vessels should keep well clear?
Answer: An international code flag 'A' (Alpha) — white and blue swallowtail flag
The international code flag Alpha (A), a white and blue swallowtail, is displayed by vessels with divers down, warning other vessels to keep clear and reduce speed.