B
S
oating
afety
Adverse Conditions
Weather
Small Craft Adv
Winds to 33 knots
RED
RED
WHITE
2
At all times, the boat operator should be aware of present weather
conditions and the weather forecast. Check the forecast before you begin
a day of boating. Be aware, however, that weather conditions can change
rapidly. If you have a marine radio, listen to the weather reports issued by
the U.S. Coast Guard and others. If you have a portable radio, keep it
tuned to a station broadcasting frequent weather reports. Many boating
clubs fly weather signals; learn to recognize these signals.
WEAThEr SIGNALS
Gale Warning
Winds 34 to 47 knots
RED
WHITE
RED
Storms rarely appear without advance notice. If storms are a possibility,
keep a watch on the horizon, especially to the West, for their approach.
Watch for changes in wind direction or cloud formations. There is no
substitute for a good understanding of weather conditions and what to do
when the weather takes a turn for the worse.
If a storm is approaching, the best course of action is to return to port.
If you are unable to do so, then prepare to weather the storm:
•
Close portlights, exterior doors and hatches and secure them. Stow
all loose gear below deck and tie down any gear on deck.
•
Reduce speed as the seas build. Make sure all persons onboard
have put on their personal flotation devices.
•
Drop a sea anchor over the stern to maintain the bow into the seas.
If you do not have a sea anchor onboard, use a canvas bucket,
tackle box, or other object that will work like an anchor.
https://www.boat-manuals.com/
Storm Warning
Winds 48 to 63 knots
Winds of 64 + knots
BLACK on
RED
RED
RED
S
1
ection
Hurricane
BLACK on
RED
RED
WHITE
RED
3837 • U3 10/07