Figure 3-2. Tie your boat securely to the fuel dock.
ufacturer. The fuel system consists of fuel
storage tanks, some means to fill them, and
the plumbing necessary to get the fuel from
the tank to the engine.
Safe fueling consists of three easy
steps, which are highlighted in Table 3-3.
Figures 3-2 and 3-3 illustrate two important
steps.
PREPARING TO CAST OFF
You should take the following important
steps before beginning your cruise.
1. Check the Weather Forecast. Bad
weather can ruin your day on the water;
what’s worse, it could lead to dangerous
conditions. A favorable forecast is
one that indicates low to moderate predicted
winds (within the limits you, the
boat, and the crew can handle), good
visibility, and absence of dangerous
squalls. Remember, winds make waves,
and waves make handling a challenge.
Moderate rain may make you uncomfortable,
but it is not inherently dangerous
unless it limits your visibility.
Watch the sky for threatening cloud
formations.
You are most interested in marine
forecasts. Generally, they will predict
wave heights (a topic of great interest to
you) and wind predictions (Figure 3-4,
example forecast). Marine forecasts can
be found on NOAA weather radio on
your VHF radio (a VHF radio is part of
the recommended equipment). Forecasts
also are available on the Internet
and many public outlets such as local AM
or FM radio, TV, and local papers. If a
marine forecast is not available, listen to
a regular forecast for wind conditions and
visibility.
2. Check Sea Conditions. Sea condition is
of primary concern to you. Wind builds
sea conditions. The stronger the wind,
the longer the stretch of water it affects,
and the longer time it has been blowing
all contribute to the height of the waves.
36 Chapter One
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Figure 3-4. Check the weather forecast.
Figure 3-3. Check for gasoline vapors.
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