Saturday, May 7, 2011

Boating Safety And The Pleasure Craft

By Adriana Noton


Safe boating practices apply to all water craft and there are rules governing both merchant and cruise vessels as well as pleasure boating safety. Inland waterways can be ideal for an afternoon or a week's holiday providing relaxation, water sports and fishing fun. However some boating safety rules are in place in almost every area to ensure that the boating experience remains safe and pleasurable for all.

The laws and regulations applicable to pleasure craft vary with the country and the region. In areas where certification or licensing is required to operate a water craft there are often organizations empowered to enforce these rules. Such representatives are permitted to impose sanctions or issue citations related to water safety violations as well as provide assistance to craft in distress.

One of the most important tips for any new pleasure craft operator is that they should know the local laws pertaining to boating. These regulations and laws are usually enacted to protect everyone and ensure the safety of both boaters and the indigenous water wildlife. A license or certification may be required by some regions and before launching a craft the operator should obtain any required licensing or certifications.

Motorized pleasure craft may be forbidden in some areas or restricted as to speed. Familiarity with the local regulations as well as any imposed by the province or state can ensure that everyone has a good time on the water including the residents of the area. Being respectful of the laws and of other pleasure craft operators can go a long way towards safe boat operation.

Some maritime conventions apply equally to the sea as to inland waterways and the pleasure craft operator should know and understand these. It is vital to know when another craft has the right of way and even which side to pass another craft upon. Most areas which require certification to operate a water vessel also test to ensure the operator understands the rules governing their craft.

There are laws imposed to assure safe operation of pleasure boats and there are also safety considerations that are behind these laws. Most areas do not permit pleasure boat operation under the influence of alcohol or drugs as these can affect judgment and be dangerous for both the operator and their passengers. An operator whose reaction time or judgment is impaired can be just as hazardous on the waterways as on the highways.

The water is for most people, wonderfully peaceful and relaxing. However, the watercraft operator should assure the necessary safety equipment is in good repair prior to taking a craft on out on the waterways. Such safety equipment can be as basic as a life preserver for every person on the boat. Areas that require operator certification or licensing for boat operators will also require the operator know and understand boating safety equipment requirements.

Boating safety is very important even when the passengers and operators know how to swim and knowing the basic rules of boating safety assures the operator and the passenger will make the most of their water experience. Boating safety courses assure that every pleasure craft operator knows and understands the general laws and regulations governing pleasure craft. Making sure that everyone has a great time on the water and arrives home safely is the purpose of these courses.




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