Emergencies - Axis A20 Manual

1-6 Boating Safety

Emergencies

Giving Assistance
Many of the distress calls are not true emergencies. In most cases, the boat is disabled for
one reason or another, but there is no immediate danger of death or serious injury.
However, emergencies can occur and you should know how to cope with them. If you
observe a boat in distress, assume it is a true emergency. Proceed to the scene and render
assistance. Federal law requires boat operators to offer assistance and aid to others. The
law's "Good Samaritan" clause absolves you from any civil liability in the event that your
assistance causes injury or property damage.
There is a way to handle nearly every emergency if you do not panic. Learn your boating
lessons and safety procedures well, and you will have the confidence and ability to
handle an emergency should one arise.
Fires
Many boat fires involve flammable liquids such as gas or oil. Many inboard fires start in
the bilge area which at times can be filled with gas vapors. Since gas vapors cannot be
seen, boat fires tend to travel very fast. If you encounter a fire on board, turn off the
engine immediately. If you have a fire extinguisher on board and access to the fire, it may
be controllable. Direct the contents of the extinguisher at the base of the flames. Throw
burning materials overboard if possible. Put on PFDs, if not already on, signal for help
and prepare to abandon the boat if necessary.
Reporting Accidents
Boat operators are required by law to file a Boating Accident report with their state
boating law enforcement agency or local authority when their boat is involved in certain
boating accidents. A boating accident must be reported if there is a loss or probable loss
of life, personal injury requiring medical attention, damage exceeding $500, or there is a
complete loss of the boat. If any of these conditions arise, seek further assistance from
local law enforcement personnel.