Safety Regulations and Procedures Flashcards

What is the correct procedure when a pleasure craft catches fire while underway?

Answer: Position the vessel so the wind blows the fire away from fuel sources and passengers, then fight the fire or abandon ship

Maneuver so wind blows flames away from passengers and fuel, attempt to extinguish with a fire extinguisher, and abandon ship into a life raft or water if the fire is uncontrollable.

A MAYDAY call on VHF Channel 16 indicates:

Answer: A vessel in grave and imminent danger requiring immediate assistance

MAYDAY is the highest-level distress signal, used only when a vessel or person is in grave and imminent danger of death or serious injury.

Under Canadian regulations, which flares are approved for use in coastal or offshore waters beyond 1 nautical mile from shore?

Answer: Type A flares only (rocket parachute flares)

Type A rocket parachute flares are required for offshore use because they reach greater heights and are visible from longer distances than other flare types.

What does the term 'swamping' mean in boating safety?

Answer: Water entering the vessel from the sides or waves, causing it to fill and possibly sink

Swamping occurs when waves or water wash over the sides and fill the vessel, which can lead to sinking if not addressed immediately.

When approaching a blind corner in a narrow channel, what sound signal should a pleasure craft operator give?

Answer: One prolonged blast (4–6 seconds)

One prolonged blast is the standard warning signal given when approaching a blind bend or obstruction where oncoming traffic cannot be seen.

What must a pleasure craft operator do when a 'no-wake zone' sign is posted?

Answer: Operate at the minimum speed needed for steerage and produce no wake

In a no-wake zone, operators must travel at the slowest possible speed that still allows steering, ensuring no wake is created.

What is the purpose of a vessel's bilge pump under safety regulations?

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

A bilge pump removes water that collects in the bilge (lowest interior part of the hull), preventing the vessel from becoming swamped or sinking.