OBS Alcohol & Drug Safety on the Water 3

Question 1

According to U.S. Coast Guard statistics, alcohol is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents, accounting for approximately what percentage of boating deaths?

Accepted Answer

23–25%

Answer

The USCG consistently reports alcohol as the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents, involved in approximately 23% of boating deaths.

Question 2

What is the safest practice for a group planning a boating trip where alcohol will be consumed by some passengers?

Accepted Answer

Designate a sober boat operator before departure

Answer

Designating a sober operator before the trip begins — like a designated driver — is the most effective way to prevent BUI-related accidents.

Question 3

The 'Sober Skipper' program promoted by the U.S. Coast Guard encourages boaters to:

Accepted Answer

Designate one non-drinking person to operate the vessel

Answer

The Sober Skipper program promotes designating one person who abstains entirely from alcohol to serve as the vessel operator.

Question 4

Why is a visibly intoxicated passenger who falls overboard at particularly high risk of drowning?

Accepted Answer

Alcohol impairs swimming ability and increases drowning risk

Answer

Alcohol severely impairs coordination, balance, and swimming ability, putting intoxicated persons who fall overboard at very high risk of drowning even when wearing a PFD.

Question 5

How does cold water affect an intoxicated person who falls overboard?

Accepted Answer

It can accelerate hypothermia because alcohol dilates blood vessels, increasing heat loss

Answer

Alcohol dilates blood vessels, accelerating heat loss in cold water and dramatically increasing the risk of hypothermia and death for an intoxicated person overboard.

(OBS) Online Boating Safety Certification Practice Test

(OBS) Online Boating Safety Certification Practice Test

OBS Alcohol & Drug Safety on the Water 3