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You must provide a Coast Guard approved personal
fl otation device (PFD) for every person on board. These
PFD's should be in good condition and easily accessible.
Insist that non-swimmers and children on board wear
a PFD at all times. If you encounter rough weather
conditions, make sure everyone on board is wearing a
PFD, including yourself. Instruct your passengers in how
to put on their PFDs and be sure they know their storage
location on the boat. Remember, in an emergency, a PFD
that cannot be quickly located and worn is useless.
Never allow anyone to sit anywhere on the boat not
specifi cally designed as seating. While underway, ALWAYS
insist passengers sit in a seat and set an example by doing
this yourself.
Never drink and drive! As captain,
you are responsible for the safety of
your passengers. Alcohol and boat-
ing can be a dangerous combina-
tion. DO NOT mix them. Alcohol
impairs the boat operators ability to
make conscious decisions and react
to emergency situations quickly.
Never overload your boat! An overloaded boat, or one
with uneven weight distribution can be diffi cult to steer.
Safety On Board
Use maximum caution when fueling. Never allow any
smoke or fl ame nearby while you are fueling. ALWAYS
check for fuel leaks and fumes when fueling is completed.
return and retain one- third as a reserve.
Always check the weather before departure. Be particularly
cautious of forecasted electrical storms and high winds.
Always have up-to-date charts aboard as a back-up to your
plotter and auto pilot option. Charts can be obtained at
your closet marina, on-line store or by contacting one of
three federal government agencies.
Always fi le a fl oat plan. Leave details of your trip with
someone responsible who will be remaining on shore.
Include expected return, plus name and phone number
of a contact person in case of emergency.
Use care, courtesy and common sense when launching,
docking or operating your boat.
Learn and obey the "Rules of the Road". A weather
resistant placard copy of the "Rules of the Road" is included
in the on board Regal information packet. Additional
information can be obtained from the U.S. Coast Guard
Auxiliary or your local Power Squadron organization.
In case of emergency know the international distress
signals for your VHF radio. The spoken word
"MAYDAY" is the international signal of distress and
is for emergency use only. Under no circumstances
should this word be used, unless there is danger at hand.
3
Be certain there is enough
fuel aboard for your cruising
needs. Include any reserve
that might be needed should
you change your plans due
to weather or an emergency.
Practice the "one-third
rule: Use one-third of your
fuel going out, one-third to
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