United States Coast Guard Auxiliary 5th District(SR) Division 3

Division 3, District 5(SR)

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RECALL NOTICE
About 19,000 Wego Kite Tubes, imported by Sportsstuff Inc., have been recalled because the company has received 39 reports of injuries with 29 of those injuries requiring medical treatment. The company has been unable to determine the cause of the injuries.
The yellow, circular tubes are 10-foot wide inflatable floats designed to be pulled behind a power boat. Riders fly into the air when they pull the handles on the tube's floor. Model number 53-5000 is printed near the valve on the tube, and the floor has black caution warning stripes.
Marine distributors, mail order catalogs and retail stores nationwide sold the product from October 2005 until July 2006. For more information, call the company at 866-831-5524 or visit http://www.sportsstuff.com/ or http://www.cpsc.gov/.
[Posted: 26 JUL 2006. Source: BMC John Dingley, (G-PCX)]

TSA OKs Some Transport Of PFDs With CO₂ Cartridges
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has published a list of restricted and prohibitive items from carry-on and checked baggage on aircraft. Included is a conditional exception for Personal Flotation Devices and compressed gas cylinders (last paragraphs).
[Posted: 02 JUN 2006. Source: PNACO]

RECALL NOTICE -- Recently the U.S. Coast Guard has become aware of a recall notice for some U.S. Coast Guard approved fire extinguishers made by the Strike First Corporation of America.

Strike First has determined that the valve stem seats in a number of its 2.5 and 5 lb dry chemical fire extinguishers assembled between December 2002 and February 2004 may prevent the extinguisher from discharging properly when the lever is activated. As a result of this condition, Strike First has initiated a fire extinguisher retro-fit program for these units. Retro-fit kits are available free of charge by contacting your Strike First distributor, or by contacting Strike First directly.

The Coast Guard recommends that vessel operators verify the manufacturer of their fire extinguishers, and if applicable, take the action recommended by the manufacturer. For details visit: http://www.strikefirstusa.com/serv_bull_002.htm.

Questions or comments regarding this safety alert may be addressed to Mr. Klaus Wahle of the U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters Life Saving and Fire Safety Standards Division at 202.267.0256 or kwahle@comdt.uscg.mil.

This safety alert is provided for informational purpose only and does not relieve any domestic or international, safety, operational, or material requirement.
[Posted: 02 MAR 2006. Source: Klaus Wahle]
HURRICANE KATRINA INFO -- The following websites have been established to provide information on Hurricane Katrina relief efforts:

A. For hurricane KATRINA search and rescue - In order to assist the United States Coast Guard in hurricane KATRINA search and rescue efforts, submit a missing/stranded person request at: http://homeport.uscg.mil/.

B. For hurricane KATRINA media - For news about hurricane KATRINA visit: http://www.uscgstormwatch.com/.

C. The hurricane KATRINA official government website for public information on finding loved ones, what to do if you are a victim, how to help victims, or disaster cleanup and agency resources. Visit: http://www.firstgov.gov/Citizen/Topics/PublicSafety/Hurricane_Katrina_Recovery.shtml.

[Posted: 7 September 2005. Source: Jeff Mahl, DC-I]
RECALL NOTICE -- Suzuki Motors has issued a recall on their outboard engines, models DF200, DF225 and DF250 in July 2005. The recall is based on the fact that certain models have defects in the flywheel, which could and has caused serious injuries. All owners of Suzuki outboard engines, with the above models please read the following document: http://www.cgaux.info/g_ocx/comdtnote/9000.pdf.
[Posted: 24 August 2005. Source: CHDIRAUX]
CO₂ Cylinder Safety Notice -- The U.S. Coast Guard has become aware of a potential problem with the installation of CO₂ cylinders that have bayonet tips in inflatable personal flotation devices (PFDs or life jackets). If a cylinder is not properly installed, the PFD will not inflate with CO₂. The problem may affect several thousand PFDs, but the Coast Guard is only aware of one incident to date. More detailed information is available at http://www.uscgboating.org/alerts/alertsview.aspx?id=50.
[Posted: 22 June 2005. Source: G-OCX]
"Why I Wear My Life Jacket" Essay Contest -- This contest is open to kids from 4 to 15 years old. Nine $100 saving bonds are being awarded to the winners. Deadline for entries is 1 November 2005. Find out the details at http://www.boatingsidekicks.com/essay1200.htm.
[Posted: 22 June 2005. Source: Jeff Decker, Boating Education Coordinator, VA-DGIF]
Update on Inflatable Life Jackets -- There have been many improvements on inflatable life jackets in the past few years. When first brought onto the market, the USCG only approved the inflatables at the Type V rating, but that has changed. Almost all inflatable life jackets currently being manufactured, including the waist belts, are approved by the USCG at the Type III level. They are also approved at the Type I (Hybrid) and Type V (Hybrid) levels. The Type I hybrid is an inherently buoyant vest WITH an automatic inflatation system (basically 2 life jackets in 1). This Type I Hybrid is only approved for children 50 - 90 pounds. The Type V inflatables remain a special use device, and must be used in accordance with the labeling instructions. The approval labels must be considered when using any inflatable life jacket. Most, if not all, inflatables specifically state they not to be worn by anyone under the age of 16, while on board a PWC, in white water or for persons be towed.
[Posted: 9 June 2005. Source: Jeff Decker, Boating Education Coordinator, VA-DGIF]
Non-Serviceable and Substandard Type I Unicellular Plastic Foam Life Preservers -- U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety, Security and Environmental ProtectionSafety Alert 3-05 of May 24, 2005 has been released. Recently during several annual inspections of small passenger vessels, Coast Guard Marine Inspectors discovered a number of problems with Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) manufactured by Atlantic-Pacific Manufacturing Co. (APCO). APCO formerly produced various types of PFDs including several sizes of unicellular plastic foam life preservers and is currently out of business. PFDs from other manufacturers could have similar problems. A close inspection revealed -

varying body strap lengths, sometimes less than 54" from the tip of the snap hook to the tip of the D-ring, resulting in a very tight fitting adult sized PFD on average sized crewmember,
non-resilient and brittle condition of the PFD flotation foam,
differences in foam volumes and physical size for the same model of PFD and,
inaccurate markings, incorrect Q-spec numbers (106.055 vs. 160.055), misspelled words, and incorrect narratives.

Additionally, follow-up buoyancy tests of suspect PFDs performed by the Marine Inspectors resulted in numerous failures. All PFDS that had failed were condemned and each exhibited noticeable shrinkage and compression. Many of these PFDs have been in use since the 1970's and may have reached the end of their service life. See images on PDF file available at http://safetyseal.net/pdf_files/PFD3-05.pdf. Left image shows an example of a vinyl dipped PFD with compressed or hardened foam. Right image illustrates a fabric covered PFD with brittle foam. The US Coast Guard strongly recommends that owners and operators carefully inspect all of their older Type I unicellular plastic foam PFDs. Potential indications that a Type I unicellular plastic foam PFD may no longer be serviceable are:

5. Compression: The PFD may be compressed from many years of stowage.

6. Loss of resiliency: The PFD is excessively hard, stiff or its foam is brittle. Normally after compressing the PFD to about half its initial thickness, the foam should expand to its original dimension in a short period of time.

7. Shrinkage: A physical reduction in size may be indicated by "wrinkling" of the coating on vinyl dipped type or by a loose fitting shell on a fabric-covered PFD.

8. Manufacturer: While the potential for problems applies to all older PFDs, those manufactured by Atlantic-Pacific Manufacturing Corporation (APCO) have been specifically noted.

Approval numbers for APCO PFDs are:

                                        160.055/54/1     Adult Model 8130

                                        160.055/111/0    Adult Model 8150

                                        160.055/112/1    Child Model 81510

                                        160.055/121/0    Adult Model 81407 LOT # 73

                                        160.055/122/0    Child Model 81410 or 81413

Questions regarding the information presented in this alert may be addressed to Mr. Marty Jackson, Staff Engineer of the U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters Lifesaving & Fire Safety Standards Division at 202.267.0710 or mjackson@comdt.uscg.mil. This safety alert is provided for informational purposes only and does not relieve any existing domestic or international safety, operational, or material requirement.
[Posted: 31 May 2005. Source: Peter J. Urgola, DC-VE]

Plastic Fuel Fill Grounding -- Recent events have caused the boating industry to examine the policy regarding the bonding of plastic body fuel fills with metallic caps and retaining chains. Existing USCG & ABYC policy states that the bonding of these components is voluntary. A study by IMANNA Laboratories has shown that connecting the metallic retaining chain and cap of a plastic body fuel fill assembly to a boat's bonding system may result in electrostatic discharge from a land-based fuel pump nozzle to the metallic components of the assembly when the boat is not in the water. This condition does not exist when the boat is in the water due to the equalizations of the ground potentials between the fuel pump nozzle and the boats bonding system.

It is recommended by ABYC and the USCG that new and existing installations of this type of fuel fill assembly do not include any attachment to the boat's bonding system. Existing connections should be removed from the point of connection to the boat's bonding system to the fuel fill assembly. Removal of the metallic components of the assembly is not necessary; however, the U.S. Coast Guard and ABYC still require that metallic body fuel fills be bonded.

For further information contact: John Adey, ABYC (410) 956-1050 ex, 29 jadey@abycinc.org or Richard Blackman (202) 267-6810 rblackman@comdt.uscg.mil.
[Posted: 7 February 2005. Source: Barbara Rhoades, BC-ASP]
Carbon Monoxide Danger -- A Coast Guard Alert to recreational boaters on carbon monoxide hazards identifies generator exhaust as a potential cause. The Coast Guard advises owners and operators of boats to turn off gasoline-powered generators with transom exhaust ports when the swim platform on the stern is in use. The Coast Guard further advises that swimmers should not enter the cavity of a boat designed with a generator emitting exhaust into the cavity between the swim platform and the transom of the vessel. The Coast Guard is concerned about the serious health risk from carbon monoxide poisoning and seeks to prevent loss of life and personal injury. To read further on this subject, visit the Boating Safety web site.
[Posted: 7 February 2005. Source: Barbara Rhoades, BC-ASP]
Port Closures & Restrictions -- If you intend to go boating on the Mississippi River, Atlantic Coast, or Gulf Coast, please note that a Coast Guard toll-free hotline line is now available to provide both commercial and recreational mariners with the latest, up-to-date information on local waterways and ports openings, closures, and restrictions. The Coast Guard Maritime Safety Line, 1-800- 682-1796, has information from over 30 Coast Guard Captains of the Port from the Mississippi River to the Atlantic Ocean. For more in-depth information, see the Boating Safety web site.
[Posted: 7 February 2005. Source: Barbara Rhoades, BC-ASP]
Flare Gun Malfunction -- A defective opening mechanism in some 12-gauge plastic flare guns manufactured by Olin (now Orion Safety Products) prior to 2000 may not open wide enough to accept a flare cartridge. Guns with a modification to correct the possible problem are marked with U.S. Coast Guard approval code 160 028//12/1. Boaters with older flare guns should check the operation of the opening mechanism now and at the start of each boating season. If the breech will not open wide enough to accept a cartridge, the gun should be sent back for a replacement. Send defective guns to:

·

·                                                              ORION SAFETY PRODUCTS, MARINE DIVISION         (1-800-851-5260)

·                                                              3157 N. 500W

·                                                              PERU, IN 46970

[Posted: 7 February 2005. Source: Barbara Rhoades, BC-ASP]

Naval Vessel Protection Zone Warning -- At the Boating Advisories web site, you can read the regulations regarding approaching a U.S. Naval vessel. The U.S. Coast Guard published on June 4, 2002, a final rule making permanent the protection zones extending 500 yards around all U.S. naval vessels in navigable waters of the United States within the boundaries of Coast Guard Pacific Area. Details can be found in this PDF-based brochure.
[Posted: 4 February 2005. Source: Barbara Rhoades, BC-ASP]
Have you seen... Have you seen any of the following activities when you are on the water?

People appearing to be engaged in surveillance of any kind (note taking, shooting video/photos, making sketches, or asking questions).
Unattended vessels or vehicles in unusual locations.
Lights flashing between boats.
Unusual diving activity.
Unusual number of people onboard.
Unusual night operations.
Recovering or tossing items into/onto the waterway or shoreline.
Operating in or passing through an area that does not typically have such activity.

If so, call 800-424-8802 or 877-24WATCH. And, of course, you can always dial 911. For more in-depth information on America's Waterway Watch, click www.uscg.mil/hq/g-m/mp/AWW_Website/what1.htm.
[Posted: 3 February 2005. Source: Barbara Rhoades, BC-ASP]

Amended Regulations -- The Commonwealth of Virginia State Water Control Board has amended the regulations governing the discharge of sewage and other wastes from boats. Read the new regulations in 9 VAC 25-71-10.
[Posted: 11 November 2004. Source: Jeff Decker, Boating Education Coordinator, VA-DGIF]
Recall of Hammar products -- SOSpenders Corporation is recalling approximately 7,200 automatic inflatable personal floatation devices (pfds). Approximately 300 defective Hammar units in one lot of 500 were loaded incorrectly and will not inflate the vest. SOSpenders Corp. has made the decision to recall all Hammar products for 100% safety inspection. For more information click here.
[Posted: 26 September 2004. Source: Stuart D. Soffer, BC-AWP]
Coast Guard 2004 Light Lists On-line -- Mariners may view the 2004 Light Lists for each Coast Guard District. These publications contain a list of lights, sound signals, buoys, daybeacons, and other aids to navigation and can be downloaded or printed.
[Posted: 08 September 2004. Source: Stuart Soffer, BC-AWP]
PFD Wear and Kids -- The new Federal regulation regarding PFD wear for children goes into effect 30-Aug-04. The detailed explanation of the statute can be read in these pages from the Federal Register and these pages of the Federal Register, but the short version of what it says is:

No person may operate a recreational vessel under way with any child under the age of 13 aboard unless each such child is:

Wearing an appropriate USCG approved PFD, or
Below decks or in an enclosed cabin

Where a state law is different from this Federal regulation, the state statute will prevail in waters under the state's jurisdiction
If a state has no regulatory requirements regarding PFD's and children, the Federal statute will apply.

[Posted: 09 August 2004. Source: Dick Clinchy, DC-E]

Study Reveals Why Anglers & Hunters Don't Wear Life Jackets -- Two hunter and angler focus groups commissioned by the BoatU.S. Foundation for Boating Safety & Clean Water reveal the top three reasons sportsmen don't wear life jackets while boating - and why some choose to.

"The number one reason for not wearing a life jacket was lack of comfort," said Chris Edmonston, Director of Boating Safety Programs at the BoatU.S. Foundation. "Hunters and anglers believe that life jackets are too hot, too uncomfortable, and too bulky. What is surprising, however, is their low awareness of the new class of lightweight, comfortable inflatable life jackets that have been on the market for several years now. Unfortunately, many sportsmen still see life jackets as those boxy orange foam ones they wore as kids," he continued.

Inflatable life jackets, which weigh as little as 13 ounces, come in camouflage and nautical colors, yet provide more buoyancy when inflated than a traditional foam-filled jacket. "Manufacturers see sportsmen as a viable market," said Edmonston. "And they've succeeded in creating styles that don't interfere with shooting or casting."

The second most common reason for not wearing a jacket was that this group rarely sees professionals on TV wearing their life jackets. "We believe that the media should lead by example," said Edmonston, "Unfortunately, hunting and fishing shows don't treat life jackets the same as, for example, home improvement shows which routinely depict eye or ear protection."

The third most common reason for not wearing a life jacket was that sportsmen feel comfortable with their swimming ability, "A dangerous mistake which has led to many deaths," said Edmonston.

So why do some hunters and anglers choose to wear a jacket? A close call on the water by a friend or family member was the number one reason given in the study. "Sometimes it takes a truly frightening event for a boater to understand the importance of wearing a life jacket," said Edmonston. "It's like wearing a seat belt. It isn't going to help you after tragedy strikes."

The second reason to wear a life jacket was to present a positive role model for children or grandchildren. The third reason given was that it's simply a common sense precaution.

The focus groups were commissioned by the Sportsman's Forum, a coalition of sporting organizations like the North American Fishing Club, B.A.S.S., Cabelas, and the BoatU.S. Foundation. Additionally, the results of a second national telephone survey on boating and the media have been released by the Forum. This study looked at the media's role in presenting boating information and messages, and its impact on viewers. The full reports of both studies, along with practical boating tips for hunters and anglers, are available as a free CD by e-mailing your name and mailing address to BoatingSafety@BoatUS.com.

The studies and subsequent analysis were conducted in Spring 2004 by the research and polling organization Responsive Management. The Sportsman's Forum performs research and education campaigns on safe boating through a U.S. Coast Guard grant, funded by the Wallop-Breaux Trust Fund.

The BoatU.S Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit education and research organization funded by the voluntary contributions of 575,000 members of BoatU.S., the nation's largest recreational boat owners association. The Foundation operates the only accredited, free, online boating safety course, a low-cost EPIRB rental program, and awards grants to nonprofit groups for boating safety and environmental projects. For more information, go to http://www.BoatUS.com/Foundation.

[Posted: 05 August 2004. Source: Jeff Decker, Boating Education Coordinator, VA-DGIF]
Reflectors or reflectorized material required on trailers -- As of July 1, 2004 the following Virginia law takes effect:

46.2-1088.4 Reflectors or reflectorized material required on rear end of certain trailers There shall be affixed to the rear end of every trailer that has an unloaded weight of 3,000 pounds or less either two or more reflectors of a type approved by the Superintendent (note- all DOT stamped reflectors meet this requirement) or at least 100 square inches of solid reflectorized material. The reflectors or reflective material shall be applied so as to outline the rear end of the trailer.

[Posted: 30 June 2004. Source: Jeff Decker, Boating Education Coordinator, DGIF]
Virginia issues health alerts on Lake Anna and James River -- State health officials are advising limits on the consumption of carp in Lake Anna in Spotsylvania and Louisa counties because of elevated levels of PCBs found in the flesh of the bottom-feeding fish. Read more about the advisory in this press release, (Adobe Acrobat™ format, 10KB).
[Posted: 15 June 2004. Source: Jim Thomas, VCP 3]
PROSAR TECHNOLOGIES PRODUCTS -- Several U.S. Coast Guard offices have discovered defective lifejacket lights made by PROSAR Technologies. Some of these lights were found with very noticeable deformations due to battery corrosion while others appeared perfectly normal but did not work when tested. The company is no longer in business. The U.S. Coast Guard is canceling all approvals for PROSAR Technologies lifesaving equipment. Click here for more information.
[Posted: 28 May 2004. Source: BC-AWP]
Virginia Boater Quick Reference Guide -- A new tri-fold Virginia Boater Quick Reference Guide boating brochure is now available. You can find a copy of the brochure here that you can read or use to print additional copies, (Adobe Acrobat™ format, 135KB).
[Posted 3 May 2004. Source: Jeff Decker, Boating Education Coordinator, DGIF]
Open Air Carbon Monoxide (CO) Danger -- In addition to the general information on CO poisoning below, on April 23 2004 the Centers for Disease Control issued a report showing that carbon monoxide is a significant danger even in open air situations where most boaters might least expect it. Where previous reports described outdoor boat-related poisonings involving dangers to occupants of individual boats (e.g., houseboats and ski-boats), this report stresses the potential danger of simply being in the vicinity of a large number of idling powerboats. The report concludes: "Persons in communities with lakes and rivers where boats congregate in large numbers should be aware of the dangers of open air, boat-related CO poisoning and the need to evaluate CO exposures during high-traffic periods...The risk for boat-related CO poisonings should be reduced by considering measures such as limiting the number of boats in certain areas; enforcing a "no idle" policy when boats are stationary; and warning vacationers of 1) the signs and symptoms of CO poisoning; 2) the hazards related to occupying the back of the boat any time the motor is running; and 3) the risk for CO poisoning in areas of boat congestion, especially during calm weather conditions."
[Posted: 30 April 2004. Source: Tony Morris, NADCO-MS]
Message Concerning Transiting the ICW -- Each year as spring approaches, recreational boating traffic typically increases. This is the time when thousands of "snowbirds", people who spend the winter months in warmer, Southern climates, sail or motor back to the North for the summer.

Much of this traffic can be seen along the Intra Coastal Waterway (ICW), a navigable line of passages stretching out from the tip of Florida to Maine. The waterway runs about 1,500 miles between mainland and offshore islands, along rivers, through lakes, lagoons, bays and canals.

Because of shoaling conditions, the U.S. Coast Guard encourages mariners transiting the ICW to be cautious and boat safely this spring. Shoaling is a particularly shallow area in a body of water that can create a hazard to navigation. Shoaling conditions are dynamic, as water depths can be changed by the accumulation of silt or by the energy of passing storms.

One way to identify dangers on the water is to consult the Broadcast Notice to Mariners (BNM), or Local Notice to Mariners (LMN). You can find BNMs and LNMs on the Internet at www.navcen.uscg.gov/lnm. These notices tell boaters about everything from waterway conditions, status of aids to navigation, bridge operations and waterway construction projects.

The Coast Guard marks best available water depths, until water depths reach 4 feet, when aids to navigation are withdrawn. The Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for operating and maintaining U.S navigable waterways for commercial navigation. In recent years, funding has become restrained to the point that some waterways have not been maintained for some time.

Shoaling conditions along the ICW have impacted commercial and recreational use of the waterway. The Corps of Engineers uses channel-surveying equipment, to identify the areas of shoaling that greatly restrict vessel drafts and create hazardous boating conditions, and then passes that information to the Coast Guard.

The Coast Guard will then issue vessel draft restrictions. Currently, there are numerous locations on the ICW, particularly along the Wilmington, NC, Charleston, SC, Savannah, GA, and Jacksonville, FL, coastlines, that are restricting or preventing recreational, as well as commercial, navigation.

Aside from checking the local notice to mariners for vital information to help fix their position, boaters are also encouraged to wear lifejackets, take a safe boating course, get a vessel safety check and not to boat under the influence.
[Posted 30 March 2004. Source: Jeff Decker, Boating Education Coordinator, DGIF]
Local Notice to Mariners -- The United States Coast Guard Navigation Center has just announced an automatic notification program for Fifth District Local Notice Mariners. Sign up for the e-mail notification of when updates are posted or read more about it at www.navcen.uscg.gov/lnm/d5/.
[Posted: 14 January 2004. Source: Jeff Decker, Boating Education Coordinator, DGIF]
Do any of your boating passengers have more than 2 legs? -- If so, you should read these two articles about canine safety aboard boats. The first, written by an Auxiliarist, is "Boating with the Pooch, Some safety items to think about," appearing in the online boating magazine, By-The-Sea. The second is a report on Canine PFDs by BoatUS titled, "How Safe is That Doggie in the Water?"
[Posted 29 December 2003. Source: Kemp Davis, SO-CS]
Discounts Offerred for VSC Participants -- Once again, both West Marine and BoatUS have agreed to extend their 10% discount for boating safety equipment to boaters who have had an annual vessel safety check. This year however, all boaters need to do is present their completed 7012 VSC form. They are entitled to the discount whether they pass or fail. Let's take advantage of this great opportunity to promote boating safety.
[Posted: 12 December 2003. Source: Joseph L. Barcelo, DC-V]
Safety Recall -- Bombardier Recreational Products (Johnson/Evinrude) has issued a recall of their side mount shift and throttle control boxes for their outboard motors. Read more about it here.
[Posted: 21 November 2003. Source: Jeff Decker, Boating Education Coordinator, DGIF]
Join Waterway Watch -- The U.S. Coast Guard needs your help with Homeland Security in the marine environment. That's why WATERWAY WATCH was established and 1-877-24 WATCH is the number to call when you see something suspicious on our waterways (Call 911 directly in the event of immediate threat or danger!). In this post-attack atmosphere, we can no longer say, "That could never happen." We don't know what can happen and what can't - even at a quiet marina or serene waterway. Learn more about WATERWAY WATCH and how you can become part of the Operation Patriot Readiness III team by viewing this presentation. (If presentation does not work, you may need to download and install the free PowerPoint Viewer [[Mac version]).
[Updated: 13 September 2003. Source: Stuart Soffer, BC-AIN]
Port Closures and Restrictions -- If you intend to go boating on the Mississippi River, Atlantic Coast, or Gulf Coast, a Coast Guard toll-free hotline line is now available to provide both commercial and recreational mariners with the latest, up-to-date information on local waterways and ports openings, closures, and restrictions. The Coast Guard Maritime Safety Line, 1-800-682-1796, has information from over 30 Coast Guard Captains of the Port from the Mississippi River to the Atlantic Ocean. Click www.uscgboating.org/news/alertsview.aspx?id=10 for more information.
[Posted: 13 September 2003. Source: Stuart Soffer, BC-AIN]
Naval Vessel Protection Zone Warning -- Do not approach within 100 yards of any U.S. naval vessel. If you need to pass within 100 yards of a U.S. naval vessel in order to ensure a safe passage in accordance with the Navigation Rules, you must contact the U.S. naval vessel or the Coast Guard escort vessel on VHF-FM channel 16. You must operate at minimum speed within 500 yards of any U.S. naval vessel and proceed as directed by the Commanding Officer of the vessel or the official patrol craft. Violations of the Naval Vessel Protection Zone are a felony offense, punishable by up to 6 years in prison and/or up to $250,000 in fines.
[Posted: 13 September 2003. Source: USCG Office of Boating Safety]
Free BoatU.S. Hurricane Preparation Guide Available -- Is your boat ready for storm surge, driving winds, and torrential downpours? With the peak hurricane season upon us, Boat Owners Association of The United States has these top five tips to help weather the storm:

Keep it high and dry: Boats stored ashore are far more likely to survive than boats in the water. After the boats in its outer harbor were devastated in 1983 by Hurricane Alicia, the Houston Yacht Club responded by devising a comprehensive hurricane plan that includes the evacuation of all vessels. At Martha's Vineyard Shipyard, the marina has put together a list of emergency employees to assist the regular staff with the rush removals, each one being pre-assigned to a specific duty so all goes smoothly.

These marinas, and many others, recognize that the key to weathering the storm is preparation - both by individual boat owners and marina personnel. Now is the time to review your marina's contract or boat club's rules for hurricane preparation and cement a plan with them.

Ensure your marina and boat are ready: There is a huge difference in how marinas prepare for a major storm. How well your marina is currently organized can tell you a lot about how well your boat will fare in the slip during a storm. Boats in poorly maintained, unorganized and cluttered marinas usually fare the worst in hurricanes.

Poorly sited marinas - those in unprotected areas, also face higher risks. When Hurricane Andrew decimated South Florida in 1992, most boats in the well-protected Coco Plum Marina survived. Marinas with floating docks and tall pilings also provide a safer solution than fixed docks as extra scope is not needed and docks will not float away over the pilings.

If you plan on leaving your boat in the water, be sure you'll have everything you'll need to secure it well in advance. If your plan is to leave it at a slip, take inventory of your dock lines, chafe protection and other items such as fenders and duct tape. After Hurricane Fran hit in 1996, the BoatU.S. Catastrophe Response Team estimated that as many as half the damaged boats at marinas could have been saved by longer and thicker dock lines and adequate chafe protection - the first items to sell out once a hurricane "warning" is posted.

Find the right 'hole': If you plan on moving your vessel to a hurricane hole - a canal, river or harbor that offers better protection - it's important to remember that the storm surge may be ten feet high or greater. Seawalls and jetties that might otherwise protect your boat could be underwater. One other consideration: Plan on moving your boat early, as soon as a "warning" has been posted. Otherwise, you may find the best spots are already taken or that bridges have been locked down to evacuate automobiles.

Check your policy: An up-to-date insurance policy can mean success or failure in quickly returning the vessel to its pre-storm condition. Does your policy include all of your recently installed electronics or other upgrades? BoatU.S. also offers Hurricane Haul Out coverage that will pay half of all costs associated with pre-storm haul out - up to $500 - for only $25 a year.

Trailerable boats should be relocated as far as possible above the anticipated storm surge and made secure. Boats on storage racks, davits and lifts should be put on trailers and taken inland.

Read up: For more information on hurricane protection, BoatU.S. publishes a free brochure, Hurricane Warning: A Guide to Preparing Boats and Marinas for Hurricanes and includes a free Hurricane Planning Worksheet that takes boaters step-by-step through the storm preparation procedures. For both of these free valuable tools and for other information on hurricanes, visit http://www.BoatUS.com or call 800-283-2883.

[Posted 5 September 2003. Source: Ed Sweeney, BC-AIP]
Marine Surveyor Information Available -- The American Boating Association (ABA) has compiled a database of almost 1,600 marine surveyors across the country that you can search to find the one nearest you with the qualifications that you need. Each listing includes the surveyor’s contact information, professional surveying certifications and what their boat-type specialties are, if any. The database is searchable by state.

When purchasing a previously owned boat, a surveyor can be a valuable resource. Not many of us are experts on all of the systems and structure of a particular boat so getting a professional survey done on a prospective purchase can give you a realistic picture of the condition of the boat - information that can be useful in negotiating the purchase price. Plus, when refinancing or reinsuring your boat, the bank or insurance company may want a survey done on your boat.

To access the marine surveyor search tool, simply click on “Marine Surveyors” on the left side of the home page of ABA Online - www.americanboating.org.
[Posted 5 September 2003. Source: Ed Sweeney, BC-AIP]
Kohler Initiates Voluntary Recall of Potentially Deadly Generators -- In an effort to replace a potentially deadly exhaust part, Kohler has initiated a voluntary recall of all of its marine generator sets powered by L600 or L654 gasoline engines. Manufactured between 1950 and 1989, the generators include the following model numbers: 2R, 2A, 2.5R, 2.5A, 3.5R, 3.5A, 4R, 4A, 5R, 5A, 6.5R, 6.5A, 7.5R, and 7.5A. Click here for more information.
[Posted: 24 July 2003. Source: Stuart Soffer, BC-AIN]
Be Safe - File a Float Plan! -- Leaving a comprehensive float plan behind when boating can save your life - or that of the people you instruct. An excellent float plan, which includes emergency instructions for the person with whom it is left, can be obtained for free at www.uscgaux.org/~0853302/FloatPlanCentral/FPC.htm.
[Posted: 14 July 2003. Source: Stuart Soffer, BC-AIN]
The Virginia General Assembly passed Joint House Resolution No. 550 recognizing the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary in Virginia for its extensive and continuing service to the Commonwealth for boating safety courses, vessel examinations, and support to the Coast Guard, especially since Sept 11th, 2001.

In recognition of National Volunteer Week and the Coast Guard Auxiliary's contribution to the Commonwealth's security, Delegate Albert Pollard recently presented a copy of Resolution 550 to Flotilla 33 and 3-10 of the Northern Neck.
[Posted: 11 May 2003. Source: Joe Riley, FC-3-10]
Free Boat Recall Alert Registry Initiated -- Federal law requires boat builders to issue recall defect notices to original boat owners for a period of ten years after manufacturer. However, there is no requirement to notify subsequent owners of a boat if a recall is issued. BoatU.S. has stepped in fill this gap with its National Recall Alert Registry. This is a free service and boat owners must register with BoatU.S. to participate.
[Posted: 19 April 2003. Source: BC-BRI]
Auxiliary Services Directory Published -- The Directory of Services of the Coast Guard Auxiliary is a guide for the reader to become acquainted with the capabilities of the Coast Guard Auxiliary and its members. It lists the Auxiliary State Liaison Officers for each district as well as Coast Guard District information. It is a great reference document for new and experienced members alike. (Adobe Acrobat™ format, 2MB).
[Posted: 15 April 2003. Source: BC-BRI]
BoatU.S. to Provide Free DSC Identification Numbers -- The Federal Communications Commission and the U.S. Coast Guard recently named BoatU.S. as the first non-governmental organization to issue boaters identification numbers for marine radios with Digital Selective Calling (DSC). Before BoatU.S. volunteered, boaters wanting identification numbers had to pay $120 for an FCC license. BoatU.S. is offering boaters this service free of charge. Identification numbers for DSC, a new radio technology that makes it much easier to help boaters in distress, are available online at: www.BoatUS.com.
[Posted: 13 April 2003. Source: Stuart Soffer, BC-AIN]
Homeland Security Watch -- Be a part of OPERATION LIBERTY SHIELD. Immediately report any incident related to terrorism or possible terrorist activity by calling the National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802. In addition to suspicious activities on the water, this includes bombings, bomb threats, suspicious letters or packages, and incidents related to the intentional release of chemical/biological/radioactive agents. Watch Standers have been trained to ask specific questions for such reports and will immediately pass the information to the proper local authorities.
[Posted: 5 April 2003. Source: Stu Soffer, BC-AIN]
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) Preventive Measures And Actions -- The World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued alerts about SARS, a serious respiratory illness. The illness usually begins with a fever (measured temperature greater than 100.50F (38.00C). The fever is sometimes associated with chills or other symptoms, including headache, general feeling of discomfort, and body aches. Some people also experience mild respiratory symptoms at the outset. After 2 to 7 days, SARS patients may develop a dry, nonproductive cough. The illness appears to be transmitted by direct contact with respiratory secretions and body fluids, or by living with or caring for, SARS infected persons. It has mostly been limited to health care workers and direct contacts of cases. Full info...
Homeland Security - Citizen's Preparedness Campaign

The Department of Homeland Security, in partnership with The Advertising Council and the Sloan Foundation, today launched a national public service advertising (PSA) campaign that will educate and empower American citizens to prepare for and respond to potential future terrorist attacks.

The PSAs offer practical suggestions to increase preparedness, including learning about serious threats, making emergency supply kits, creating a family communication plan and keeping emergency phone numbers near the phone. The ads direct Americans to call 1-800-BE-READY to access a free brochure or visit www.ready.gov where they can learn the best ways to protect themselves and their families against terrorism. Every American has a role in strengthening the nation's preparedness.

SSM Launch

The Coast Guard has established Naval Vessel Protection Zones that strictly regulate operations in the vicinity of U.S. Navy vessels. Failure to comply is a felony offense, punishable by up to six years imprisonment and fines up to $250,000. In addition, violators risk being identified as an immediate threat, potentially prompting the use of deadly force. Details are provided in SpeedGram 2002-03.

Please help to give this information the widest possible dissemination among the boating public.

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