Unit 4: Operating Your Pleasure Craft Safety

Question 1

Pre-Departure Checklist

Answer 1

Weather
Boat Condition
Equipment
General Preparations

Question 2

Before Casting Off

Answer 2

Keep your pleasure craft tied to the dock while you warm up the engine.
Make sure everyone on board is seated and wearing a lifejacket or PFD.
Check the direction of the wind and current.
Check that the engine is running properly and the departure area is clear of traffic. Then begin to cast off.

Question 3

fenders

Answer 3

Cushioning devices placed between two boats or between a boat and a dock to prevent damage

Question 4

downcurrent

Answer 4

In the direction the current is flowing

Question 5

downwind

Answer 5

In the direction the wind is blowing

Question 6

upwind

Answer 6

In the direction that is against the wind

Question 7

Locks

Answer 7

A series of dams on a river help maintain enough water depth to allow river traffic to operate year-round. As a result of a dam, there will be two levels of water at the dam site—one level above the dam and a different one below. Locks safely transport boats from one water level to another, like an elevator.

Question 8

Traffic Signal Lights at Locks

Answer 8

Flashing red light means stay well clear of the lock and do not enter. Allow plenty of room for boats to exit the lock.

Flashing amber light means approach the lock at a safe speed and under full control.

Flashing green light means enter the lock.

Question 9

aground

Answer 9

Touching or stuck on the bottom

Question 10

Before You Go Boating

Answer 10

Plot a course.
Determine your position.
Use a compass with nautical charts.
Use tide and current tables.
Use your electronic navigation equipment.

Question 11

ENC

Answer 11

Electronic Navigational Chart, also known as a vector chart; these “smart charts” carry geo-spatial intelligence within the data and include information that is not available with paper or raster charts

Question 12

raster chart

Answer 12

An electronic image of a paper chart