Fishing Frenzy

In some places, when operating a motorized marine vehicle, a pleasure craft operator card is required. It does not matter how large or small the boat is. If it is used for recreational purposes, the operator of the vehicle must have this card. Requirements for it are a good thing for everyone out on the water. It will ensure that the operator is educated in safety and knowledgeable of what to do in any event while sailing.

This card ensures the level of competency of the operators sailing abilities and awareness. It proves that they are well educated in situations that can happen while at sea. It also shows the ability to act accordingly to these situations. It means the owner is fluent in nautical terms and definitions. The terms are very important to know while boating.

There are many very important rules and regulations that must be known while boating. Collision procedures, allowed speed, certain operations, and restrictions are among these. You have to know the correct speed limits in all areas. Certain restrictions of operations must also be recognized and followed. In the event of a collision, you must know what to do as well.

You must be able to recognize specific sailing rules. The knowledge of knowing when to move with caution and when to just stay out of the way is important.Following these rules can save you from a disastrous collision. You also have to know what to do when visibility is low. All boats must be equipped with special lights of multiple colors that pierce through the low visibility conditions. These lights allow others on the water to physically see you to avoid a collision.

You must take appropriate safety measures. Notify someone on the shore of your destination and when to expect you back. This way they will know that something is wrong if you do not come back. Do not rely on your radio and other equipment, while out at sea, to send a distress message. Make sure that either a friend or family is fully informed about all of your trip plans.

Education in safety equipment and how to properly use them is also required. There is a proper and specific way to effectively use each item. Other safety knowledge like what to do in the event of a man overboard, your boat starts to sink, or your engine dies, is also expected.

You must know how to navigate by buoy locations. Depending on where they are, and on which side of your boat, you should be able to navigate effectively. Knowledge of reading weather reports, and how to sail in that weather, is very important. Owners of the card must know the warning signs, and the lingo used, when referring to weather. It is very important to your own safety and the safety of your passengers. Rough weather is dangerous and you must know how to deal with, and recognize it.

A pleasure craft operator card is a good thing for everyone to have. It will ensure that all boaters around you are as aware, and educated, as you are. This helps to keep everyone safe, and ensures a pleasant trip at sea.