Weather

You should never leave the dock on your PWC, or in your boat without first checking the local weather forecast. You can get the weather information from the TV, radio, local newspaper, on-line, or from one of the weather channels on your VHF radio.

At certain times of the year weather can change rapidly and you should continually keep a "weather eye" out. While you are out in a boat here are a few signs you can look for that indicate an approaching weather change:

• Weather changes generally come for the west. Scan the sky with your weather eye, especially to the west.

• Watch for cloud build up, especially rapid vertically rising clouds.

• Sudden drop in temperature.

• Sudden change in wind direction and/or speed.

• If you have a barometer on your boat, check it every 2 to 3 hours. A rising barometer indicates fair weather and a rise in wind velocity; a falling barometer indicates stormy or rainy weather.

• Watch for lightning or fog

What To Do in Severe Weather

• Reduce speed, but keep just enough power to maintain headway.

• Put on your PFDs.

• Turn on running lights.

• Head for nearest shore that is safe to approach, if possible.

• Because of their lack of stability, PWC's should head directly in to the waves.

• Other vessels should head bow into the waves at about a 45-degree angle.

• Keep bilges free of water.

• Seat passengers on bottom of boat near centerline.

• If your engine fails, trail a sea anchor on a line from the bow to keep the boat headed into the waves. A bucket will work as a sea anchor in an emergency.

• Anchor the boat if necessary.

• If you see lightning, stay away from all metal objects like masts, radio antennas, etc.

• If you are operating in fog or reduced visibility conditions use sound signals as stated on page 25 of this handbook.

VHF-FM Stations For NOAA Weather Reports

NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts, weather forecasts and warnings using these frequencies:

• 162.400 MHz

• 162.425 MHz

• 162.450 MHz

• 162.475 MHz

• 162.500 MHz

• 162.525 MHz

• 162.550 MHz

Bad Weather Operations

Since PWC operators are required to wear a PFD, they should make sure that all straps are buckled and tightened. Operators of other boat types should put on a PFD at the first sign of bad weather. Keep a constant lookout for other boats and debris. In fog, sound your fog horn or whistle. If your boat has a more than one fuel tank, switch to a "full" fuel tank.

Be familiar with the shoreline of the body of water you are on. Know where the inlets, bays and other areas are located that would shield you from the wind and waves. These areas will give you a chance to rest and plan your next move.

All recreational boats including PWC's should head for the nearest shore that is safe to approach. If the storm is already upon you, it may be best to ride it out in open water rather than trying to approach the shore, or try to dock in the weather. Boaters should close and secure all deck hatches, side windows and other openings that would allow water to enter the hull or cabin of the vessel. Reduce speed, but keep enough power to maintain headway. Passengers should be seated on the bottom of the boat, as close to the centerline as possible.

KEEP ALERT: In some parts of the country, weather can change quickly. If you see the weather conditions changing for the worse, turn back to shore.

SOMETHING TO REMEMBER

Getting your boat and passengers safely to shore is the responsibility of the operator of the vessel. The operator must have the knowledge of the capabilities and limitations of his vessel while in all conditions. The operator needs to plan ahead and know what he needs to do in all conditions and situations. Thinking and knowing what you need to do in a "WHAT IF" situation, can save lives.

Leeway

Leeway is caused by either wind or current pushing the boat off course. Leeway is the difference between your desired course and your actual course. A boat that has a deep draft and a small cabin will be greatly affected by current or moving water. On the other hand, a shallow draft boat, like a PWC, will be primarily affected by the wind. The greater your speed compared to leeway, the smaller the tacking angle. A slow boat in a strong wind or current will need to go into the wind and current at a large angle to compensate for leeway. In planning your course, always take leeway into consideration.

Tides

In coastal areas, tides are important. They significantly change the water level. This change may lead to groundings in areas that were safely navigated only a few hours earlier. Tidal change must be taken into account when anchoring or docking to a fixed dock. Familiarity with the impact of local changes is essential. Check with local marinas or the Coast Guard for information. Learn to read and understand tables and current charts.