Sunday, May 29, 2011

Why Own A Pleasure Craft Operator Card

By Adriana Noton


Some areas of the world require a pleasure craft operator card when operating a motor powered, marine, vehicle. All owners of recreational watercraft must have the card to be able to get into the water. The size of the craft does not matter. It can be something as small as a one man vehicle. If it is being used for recreation, the card is needed.

This card ensures the level of competency of the operators sailing abilities and awareness. It proves that they are well educated in situations that can happen while at sea. It also shows the ability to act accordingly to these situations. It means the owner is fluent in nautical terms and definitions. The terms are very important to know while boating.

Rules and regulations must be observed and followed while sailing. What to do in the event of a collision is very important. Operating within safe speed limits, while in specific areas, will keep everyone safe. Restrictions while in specific locations will keep you away from harm and trouble. It will also do the same for everyone around you.

You must be able to recognize specific sailing rules. The knowledge of knowing when to move with caution and when to just stay out of the way is important.Following these rules can save you from a disastrous collision. You also have to know what to do when visibility is low. All boats must be equipped with special lights of multiple colors that pierce through the low visibility conditions. These lights allow others on the water to physically see you to avoid a collision.

Informing someone on shore of when you will be expected to return from your voyage is a good idea. Your equipment and radio could fail, preventing you from alerting anyone about where you are stranded. Take the time to tell a friend or family member the specifics of your trip. This method of safety measures could save the lives of you and your passengers.

You must be educated in the effective use, and knowledge, of safety equipment. There is a proper way to wear and use items to assist you with floating. Use of fire extinguishers, and the correct way to operate signal flares, can save your life and the lives of others. Emergency actions to follow when there is a man overboard, boat is sinking, and being dead in the water due to a mechanical failure must also be known.

The operator should know how to effectively navigate by the use of buoy location. The ability to understand weather reports, how to sail in the conditions of the weather, and recognizing warning signs are important. Bad weather can sink your boat and cause harm to yourself and your passengers. Keep everyone safe by being educated in weather awareness.

A pleasure craft operator card ensures safety for everyone that enjoys being out on the water. You will be comfortable knowing that the other boaters around you are just as educated in the same things you are. Knowing what do in case of an emergency, and being prepared for it, will save lives while out at sea.




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