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9.6. STANDING
Standing in a small boat raises the center of gravity. Standing for any
reason or even changing position in a small boat can be dangerous, as is
sitting on the gunwales or seat backs or on a pedestal seat while
underway. A wave or sudden turn may cause a fall overboard because of
the raised center of gravity.
9.7. STAYING AFLOAT
It is common belief that someone dressed in heavy clothing or waders will
sink immediately if they fall overboard. This is not true. Air trapped in
clothing provides considerable flotation, and bending the knees will trap air
in waders, providing additional flotation.
To stay afloat follow these rules:
•
Remain calm, do not thrash about or try to remove clothing or
footwear. This leads to exhaustion and increases the loss of air
that keeps you afloat.
•
Keep your PFD on.
•
Keep your knees bent.
Float on your back and paddle slowly to safety.
9.8. FIRE
Locate nearest exit. Most fires are the result of gasoline and oil
accumulating in the bilge from careless fueling practices. Use the fire
extinguisher at the base of the flames using a sweeping motion. Prudent
and accurate use of the available chemicals should contain all but the
worst fires. Verify the fire has been extinguished. If so, check damage and
get assistance immediately. If not, get out by the nearest exit and swim as
far as possible upwind from the boat and use the visual distress signals to
get assistance.
NORTHSTAR MANUAL
Gasoline will float on top of water and can burn. If the boat is abandoned,
swim up wind, far enough to avoid fuel that may spread over the surface of
the water to avoid serious injury.
9.9. WHAT TO HAVE ON BOARD?
The required safety equipment to have on board differs by region and/or
country. Check with your local regulations and obtain the required
equipment before setting off with your boat.
Following is a list of recommended equipment on board:
•
Required life saving equipment, life jackets, rafts.
•
Fire extinguisher
•
VHF Radio and/or EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio
Beacon)
•
Anchor, chain, rope - sufficient length
•
Radar reflector
•
Chart and Compass
•
Boat Hook
•
Visual Distress Signals
•
Spare Anchor
•
Spare Propeller
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