utes to make sure fresh air is in the compartment before
running the engines or using any electrical devices. The
blowers are specially sealed to prevent ignition of fuel
vapors. Smell the bilge blower outlet to verify there are
no gas fumes
9. Start and Warm the Engine. Cold engines can stall,
usually at the most inopportune time. Start your engine
and let it run until the engine is running smoothly and
won’t stall to ensure it is ready before leaving the pier.
Make sure it is running smoothly while you still have
the boat under control with lines.
10. Designate an Alternative Skipper. Someone should be
designated to take over in the event that you become
incapacitated. Having someone trained and ready is
important.
GETTING UNDERWAY
Finally, we’re ready to go. Your first task is to get away
from the dock. This may not be as simple as it sounds.
Remember, when you turn one part of the boat away
from the dock, the other end will tend to rotate and strike
it. So, you need to do some planning to escape unscathed.
There are boat-handling techniques for various conditions
of wind or current (Table 3-4). You will be using
lines to help you maneuver and fenders to protect your
boat (Table 3-5). It is always good to have help on the
dock, too.
Section 3: Going Boating 39
Table 3-4. Boat-Handling in
Wind or Current
Determine direction of wind and current.
Determine which will have the greatest effect on your
boat.
Three basic situations:
* Wind and/or Current pushing the boat towards the
dock.
* Wind and/or Current pushing the boat away from the
dock.
* Wind and/or Current from ahead or astern of the
Boat.
Know how to use spring lines.
Table 3-5. Using Lines to Secure Your Boat
Spring lines are run diagonally from the bow, stern or amidships
to the dock.
The bow line runs from the bow of the boat to the dock.
The stern line runs from the stern to the dock.
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