The time of year is once upon us; time to emblazon the masts and decks with festive lighting adorning our boats and yachts in Christmas cheer. Unfortunately, numerous times during this joyous season, injuries and fires occur as a result of decorative lighting, so here's a few tips to help make your holiday decorating safe:
1. Every outdoor light or fixture must be connected to a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter, often referred to as a GFCI. It's a protective device that is critical for all outside lighting and decorative devices. If you don't have GFCI's permanently installed on your electrical system controlling your deck and other outside outlets, get them installed! In the interim, you can purchase temporary GFCI's as part of electrical cord sets such as contractors use and plug your light sets into the cord set. Not highly recommended over permanent GFCI's, but lots better than none at all. All potentially wet or damp location electrical outlets requires a GFCI. Period.
2. Use only U/L Listed electric lights, cords and timers. It's also wise to check the Consumer Product Safety Commission website on occasion for recalled products (http://www.cpsc.gov/) as some of the poorly assembled light sets from overseas are frequently recalled due to shock or fire hazards.
3. Use only lights that are listed for outdoor use if you are placing them outdoors. Those listed for indoor/outdoor use are suitable too. Same goes for extension cords and timers and other electrical equipment. Be sure it's listed for, and suited for, outside use. Protect timers and connections from direct rain and moisture as much as possible, Be sure to place electrical connections where children will not be prone to contact them. I wrap every plug connection with electrical tape or shrink tape to form a weather-resistant mating just as an extra measure of caution, in case the wire ends up laying on the deck in the rain. Keep cord sets up and off the decks and protected from being in direct contact with the water as much as possible. Remember this is 120 volts we're dealing with and it can be deadly!
4. Connect only the recommended number of strings of lights together so as not to exceed the safe current capacity of the wiring. You may be running the lights off a fifteen or twenty ampere circuit but the wiring to the strings may be only able to support a fraction of that amount of current.
5. Consider using L.E.D. (Light Emitting Diode) lights, and replacing worn out strings of lights with the new LED lights. They use much less electricity, which will save on your electric bill, are cool to the touch so they're safer, and many are rated for 10,000 hours of light which means years of use without trying to find that darned single burned out bulb in the string that caused the entire thing to go out! Prices have come way down besides, making them very affordable.
6. Use care when hanging lights. Wiring is fragile and can be damaged easily on some of the strings. If a string appears to be damaged, do not attempt to repair it. Discard it and replace it with a new set. Plus, some of the home centers have trade-in coupons on trading in your old incandescent lights on the neer LED lights!
7. Consider using timers on your lights to avoid having to plug in and unplug your lights every night. Timers come in weatherproof versions at very reasonable prices, and many are available that will allow lights to come on at dusk, then remain on for a period of time you set, from 2 hours all the way up to 12 hours, or until daylight if you prefer. Saves energy, both electrical and yours!
8. Check all lights and wiring before using and again at the end of the season. If anything needs replacement, after Christmas sales may be the ideal time to do so, saving some cash and a potential injury or fire loss at the same time.
9. Take care when placing decorations and lights near walkways, docks, and other areas people or animals may transit. If they brush against or become entangled in the wiring, falls, shocks and other injuries can occur. We all laugh as Chevy Chase and others stand in awe as the decorations fall off the roof, or the lights fall on the neighbor, but when it happens at your boat or home, it isn't all that funny.
10. Be safe with ladders. Make sure the ladder is securely footed and has a good grip on the deck or ground. The base of the ladder should be level and firm and far away enough from the vertical surface that the ladder will not tilt back when you climb it. Follow the 1:4 ratio, where the base of the ladder is one foot away from the vertical surface for every 4 feet of vertical rise. Thus if you have a 10 foot bulkhead, the ladder should be a minimum of 2 1/2 feet away from the wall at the bottom. The top of the ladder should extend 3 feet above the roof or support surface at the top. Have a ladder buddy hold the ladder when possible. Use a ladder with rubber non-slip feet.
If you're using a stepladder, never stand on the top; it's not a step. Stay two steps down from the top. Be sure the ladder is secure before climbing.
Be sure ladders are in good condition before use. And, look around before using a ladder. If you're using an aluminum ladder...check for electric lines! (This applies to when you are installing antennas or masts as well...I hate the crackling sound of fried mariners!) Get in the habit of checking your surroundings, so when you put up or remove your decorations, you can do it safely. Aluminum ladders and electricity are NOT friends. Be safe, not sorry.
11. If you're using a generator to power your lights and display, be sure it has a GFCI connected to the power outlet, and that the generator is grounded! Generator power can be just as deadly as utility power if something goes wrong. If you're using a generator, be sure the exhaust is located far away from all sources of entry to your vessel to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Have your CO monitors up and working; test them regularly and heed any alarms you receive. Many a party has ended suddenly and, in some cases, tragically, as a result of generator exhaust entering the cabin and overcoming the party-goers. It's a silent killer, so be sure it doesn't come stalking your holiday gathering!
Enjoy the season safely and ...
SAFE BOATING, MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Apologies
My apologies are in order for letting this blog get so far behind. I write other blogs and combined with a busy summer and fall, I just let this one slide too far behind. In the old Latin essence, Mea Culpa, Mea Culpa. No other way of looking at it. I'll be getting some new information up here real soon for you and I appreciate your continued viewing.
Be safe and for those who still have open water under their hulls, Safe Boating!
Be safe and for those who still have open water under their hulls, Safe Boating!
Monday, April 13, 2009
Piracy and Justice
Just a few comments on the recent piracy issues off Somalia.
Great shooting, U.S. Navy! Keep those snipers active and you can bet they'll be very useful again. And, if there are more piracy events, the Marines should recreate a move like their take down of the Barbary Coast pirates in 1805 and clean house! As memorialized in the Marine Hymn..."to the shores of Tripoli,"
It's about time we quit putting up with people who want to hold the US, or any other maritime venture, for ransom. Get tough and kick butt. Pirates have always been somewhere but when they get this bold, destroy them. Go into the pirates den, smoke them out and get rid of them like the cockroaches they are.
The seas have been open to trade for centuries and when a band of rogue bums who call themselves anything but what they are, pirates and thieves, disrupts commerce and free trade, it's time to get tough and take them out, so trade can resume without fear.
Great shooting, U.S. Navy! Keep those snipers active and you can bet they'll be very useful again. And, if there are more piracy events, the Marines should recreate a move like their take down of the Barbary Coast pirates in 1805 and clean house! As memorialized in the Marine Hymn..."to the shores of Tripoli,"
It's about time we quit putting up with people who want to hold the US, or any other maritime venture, for ransom. Get tough and kick butt. Pirates have always been somewhere but when they get this bold, destroy them. Go into the pirates den, smoke them out and get rid of them like the cockroaches they are.
The seas have been open to trade for centuries and when a band of rogue bums who call themselves anything but what they are, pirates and thieves, disrupts commerce and free trade, it's time to get tough and take them out, so trade can resume without fear.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Emergency Procedures # III
You need to write your own game plan, but this is mine so feel free to copy it and use it to your best interests:
FIRE
FIRE ON DECK:
In the event of fire on deck or in the cabin areas, there are three dry chemical fire extinguishers available. These are located:
a. In the cabinet under the aft deck wet bar.
b. In the aft cabin closet.
c. Under the port seat in the cockpit.
To use these units, you should:
1. PULL THE PIN from the extinguisher handle.
2. POINT THE NOZZLE of the extinguisher at the BASE of the flames.
3. SQUEEZE THE HANDLE and sweep the powder stream from side to side.
4. WATCH for re-flash and be prepared to use additional units if needed.
Should the fire be in bedding or a cushion, water may be needed to extinguish the remainder of the smoldering materials. Use copious quantities of water from the galley and pour on the fire as needed.
FIRE IN THE ENGINE ROOM:
A. WHILE UNDERWAY; ALSO WHEN HATCHES ARE CLOSED:
In the event of a fire in the engine room, DO NOT OPEN THE HATCHES. Shut down all engines, machinery, and blowers. The fixed Halon extinguishing system will actuate and should extinguish the fire. Any further fire extinguishing efforts should be undertaken carefully, as opening the hatches may result in flare up of incompletely extinguished materials. If you MUST open the hatches, stand by with an extinguisher at the ready and do so very carefully.
B. WHEN HATCHES ARE OPEN:
This should be treated as a cabin or deck fire and hand portable extinguishers used as above. However, if the fire cannot be controlled with hand extinguishers, it is likely best to close the hatches and wait for the fixed Halon extinguishing system to activate. Then, handle as above.
A personal flotation device has been provided for every person on board this vessel. These are for your own protection. The sea is a very unforgiving environment, and you can't stay afloat long without a life jacket. Life jackets or life vests are located in the yellow "LIFE JACKET" bag in the cockpit and also in the compartment under the port side mates seat in the cockpit.
Read the instructions on the life jacket or vest for complete information on how to put it on and fasten it securely. If you don't know how to use it, ASK THE CREW NOW. We'll be glad to show you how. Don't wait until you really need it to ask.
If you do not swim, you should wear your life jacket at all times, particularly when you venture outside the cabin or cockpit areas. Even if you are a good swimmer, you should wear your life jacket whenever conditions warrant. And, during severe sea conditions, or whenever the captain indicates he believes it is prudent to do so,
Children who do not swim will be required to wear life jackets at all times. Parents or guardians will be asked to bring appropriate personal flotation devices for their children, and will be expected to do so. We will make every attempt to accommodate everyone with the correct size life jacket, but if there is even one person who does not have an appropriate personal flotation device available, WE WILL NOT LEAVE THE DOCK! No day on the water is worth endangering a human life.
Welcome aboard the Gypsy Rose II. We're glad you're here and hope you enjoy your time aboard.
A boat is much different than a house or car, and some systems are very temperamental, so I'd like to point out some very simple rules we all live by while on board:
1. YOUR PFD or LIFE JACKET: There is a PFD (Personal Flotation Device) for everyone on board. Be sure you know where they are and how to put them on. If you have children with you, it's YOUR responsibility to be sure they wear their PFD whenever necessary.
2. NO SMOKING. There is no smoking allowed on board. If you must smoke, please feel free to step out on the dock, away from the vessel. While we are underway, feel free to step off the swim platform. (Take your PFD!)
3. THE TOILET: We call it a HEAD, and the simple rule is; IF YOU HAVEN"T EATEN OR DRANK IT FIRST, IT DOESN'T GO IN THE HEAD. No papers, paper towels, sanitary napkins, tampons, diapers, baby wipes, cloth, pins or anything else. These will clog the unit and make life miserable for ALL on board. Before you need to use it, please ask us to show you how it works.
4. The GALLEY (kitchen) sink: Again, please refrain from putting anything down the sink except water. We don't have any plumbers at sea.
5. GARBAGE: Please place all trash and garbage in the trash cans provided in the cabin and in the cockpit. In addition to saving our environment, it's illegal to dispose of trash and garbage carelessly.
6. PLASTIC: Please be sure that all plastics, regardless of how small or insignificant the pieces seem, are discarded in the trash cans. While plastics make our life better, they severely endanger the marine environment. And, again, it's the law.
7. ZERO DRUG TOLERANCE: We do not condone nor will we allow the use of or carrying of illicit drugs aboard this vessel. If you are carrying or using illegal drugs, LEAVE NOW. You are not welcome aboard and will be reported to authorities.
Please take a few minutes and review the information in this manual. We always expect a smooth voyage, but we always like to be prepared in the event things don't go just the way we planned.
Again, WELCOME ABOARD and ENJOY THE DAY.
FIRE
FIRE ON DECK:
In the event of fire on deck or in the cabin areas, there are three dry chemical fire extinguishers available. These are located:
a. In the cabinet under the aft deck wet bar.
b. In the aft cabin closet.
c. Under the port seat in the cockpit.
To use these units, you should:
1. PULL THE PIN from the extinguisher handle.
2. POINT THE NOZZLE of the extinguisher at the BASE of the flames.
3. SQUEEZE THE HANDLE and sweep the powder stream from side to side.
4. WATCH for re-flash and be prepared to use additional units if needed.
Should the fire be in bedding or a cushion, water may be needed to extinguish the remainder of the smoldering materials. Use copious quantities of water from the galley and pour on the fire as needed.
FIRE IN THE ENGINE ROOM:
A. WHILE UNDERWAY; ALSO WHEN HATCHES ARE CLOSED:
In the event of a fire in the engine room, DO NOT OPEN THE HATCHES. Shut down all engines, machinery, and blowers. The fixed Halon extinguishing system will actuate and should extinguish the fire. Any further fire extinguishing efforts should be undertaken carefully, as opening the hatches may result in flare up of incompletely extinguished materials. If you MUST open the hatches, stand by with an extinguisher at the ready and do so very carefully.
B. WHEN HATCHES ARE OPEN:
This should be treated as a cabin or deck fire and hand portable extinguishers used as above. However, if the fire cannot be controlled with hand extinguishers, it is likely best to close the hatches and wait for the fixed Halon extinguishing system to activate. Then, handle as above.
PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES
(LIFE JACKETS)
(LIFE JACKETS)
A personal flotation device has been provided for every person on board this vessel. These are for your own protection. The sea is a very unforgiving environment, and you can't stay afloat long without a life jacket. Life jackets or life vests are located in the yellow "LIFE JACKET" bag in the cockpit and also in the compartment under the port side mates seat in the cockpit.
Read the instructions on the life jacket or vest for complete information on how to put it on and fasten it securely. If you don't know how to use it, ASK THE CREW NOW. We'll be glad to show you how. Don't wait until you really need it to ask.
If you do not swim, you should wear your life jacket at all times, particularly when you venture outside the cabin or cockpit areas. Even if you are a good swimmer, you should wear your life jacket whenever conditions warrant. And, during severe sea conditions, or whenever the captain indicates he believes it is prudent to do so,
EVERYONE WILL WEAR THEIR PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE!
Children who do not swim will be required to wear life jackets at all times. Parents or guardians will be asked to bring appropriate personal flotation devices for their children, and will be expected to do so. We will make every attempt to accommodate everyone with the correct size life jacket, but if there is even one person who does not have an appropriate personal flotation device available, WE WILL NOT LEAVE THE DOCK! No day on the water is worth endangering a human life.
W E L C O M E A B O A R D
Welcome aboard the Gypsy Rose II. We're glad you're here and hope you enjoy your time aboard.
A boat is much different than a house or car, and some systems are very temperamental, so I'd like to point out some very simple rules we all live by while on board:
1. YOUR PFD or LIFE JACKET: There is a PFD (Personal Flotation Device) for everyone on board. Be sure you know where they are and how to put them on. If you have children with you, it's YOUR responsibility to be sure they wear their PFD whenever necessary.
2. NO SMOKING. There is no smoking allowed on board. If you must smoke, please feel free to step out on the dock, away from the vessel. While we are underway, feel free to step off the swim platform. (Take your PFD!)
3. THE TOILET: We call it a HEAD, and the simple rule is; IF YOU HAVEN"T EATEN OR DRANK IT FIRST, IT DOESN'T GO IN THE HEAD. No papers, paper towels, sanitary napkins, tampons, diapers, baby wipes, cloth, pins or anything else. These will clog the unit and make life miserable for ALL on board. Before you need to use it, please ask us to show you how it works.
4. The GALLEY (kitchen) sink: Again, please refrain from putting anything down the sink except water. We don't have any plumbers at sea.
5. GARBAGE: Please place all trash and garbage in the trash cans provided in the cabin and in the cockpit. In addition to saving our environment, it's illegal to dispose of trash and garbage carelessly.
6. PLASTIC: Please be sure that all plastics, regardless of how small or insignificant the pieces seem, are discarded in the trash cans. While plastics make our life better, they severely endanger the marine environment. And, again, it's the law.
7. ZERO DRUG TOLERANCE: We do not condone nor will we allow the use of or carrying of illicit drugs aboard this vessel. If you are carrying or using illegal drugs, LEAVE NOW. You are not welcome aboard and will be reported to authorities.
Please take a few minutes and review the information in this manual. We always expect a smooth voyage, but we always like to be prepared in the event things don't go just the way we planned.
Again, WELCOME ABOARD and ENJOY THE DAY.
Emergency Procedures #II
In the event of a NON LIFE THREATENING EMERGENCY, follow the instructions 1 through 4 above, but say the following:
VESSEL ASSIST, this is the NAME OF YOUR VESSEL AND CALL NUMBERS. Release the button and listen for a response. If no response, try again.
When asked, give the following information:
A. The nature of the emergency.
B. The number of people on board.
C. Your position. (Look at the LORAN and/or GPS screen and give position in lat/lon)
D. Description of vessel. (mine would be 36 ft. express cruiser, white hull and decks, red trim, red canvas, registration number CF 1889 SE) and any other information requested. Vessel Assist or Sea Tow, the at-sea version of the Automobile Club,may request the membership number, if known.
If you are a member of a towing service, there is usually no charge for towing back to your home port. Be sure to specify just where that home port is and request towing to there, or you could wind up at the closest fuel and repair dock.
If you cannot contact your towing service. call the Coast Guard and request they contact the towing service for you. Explain to the Coast Guard the nature of the problem, and they will advise you as to procedures.
IF YOU ARE IN DOUBT AS TO THE URGENCY OF THE PROBLEM, CALL THE COAST GUARD ON CHANNEL 16. THEY WILL BE ABLE TO DETERMINE THE CORRECT ACTION TO BE TAKEN. IT'S BETTER TO CALL AND NOT NEED THEM THAN NOT CALL AND WISH YOU HAD WHEN IT'S TOO LATE!
You can also utilize the cellular phone for emergencies. If there is a life threatening emergency and you cannot reach the Coast Guard on the radio, try the cellular and dial 911. The police can assist you and contact the Coast Guard. Just remember a cellular phone has very limited range, and if you're far offshore, the cell phone may be useless. It is no substitute for the marine VHF radio!
K E E P C A L M
LEVEL HEADED THINKING AND ACTION WILL MAKE THE BEST OF AN EMERGENCY. YOUR ACTIONS WILL ASSURE THAT WE'LL ALL BE ABLE TO TELL SEA STORIES ABOUT IT LATER.
VESSEL ASSIST, this is the NAME OF YOUR VESSEL AND CALL NUMBERS. Release the button and listen for a response. If no response, try again.
When asked, give the following information:
A. The nature of the emergency.
B. The number of people on board.
C. Your position. (Look at the LORAN and/or GPS screen and give position in lat/lon)
D. Description of vessel. (mine would be 36 ft. express cruiser, white hull and decks, red trim, red canvas, registration number CF 1889 SE) and any other information requested. Vessel Assist or Sea Tow, the at-sea version of the Automobile Club,may request the membership number, if known.
If you are a member of a towing service, there is usually no charge for towing back to your home port. Be sure to specify just where that home port is and request towing to there, or you could wind up at the closest fuel and repair dock.
If you cannot contact your towing service. call the Coast Guard and request they contact the towing service for you. Explain to the Coast Guard the nature of the problem, and they will advise you as to procedures.
IF YOU ARE IN DOUBT AS TO THE URGENCY OF THE PROBLEM, CALL THE COAST GUARD ON CHANNEL 16. THEY WILL BE ABLE TO DETERMINE THE CORRECT ACTION TO BE TAKEN. IT'S BETTER TO CALL AND NOT NEED THEM THAN NOT CALL AND WISH YOU HAD WHEN IT'S TOO LATE!
You can also utilize the cellular phone for emergencies. If there is a life threatening emergency and you cannot reach the Coast Guard on the radio, try the cellular and dial 911. The police can assist you and contact the Coast Guard. Just remember a cellular phone has very limited range, and if you're far offshore, the cell phone may be useless. It is no substitute for the marine VHF radio!
K E E P C A L M
LEVEL HEADED THINKING AND ACTION WILL MAKE THE BEST OF AN EMERGENCY. YOUR ACTIONS WILL ASSURE THAT WE'LL ALL BE ABLE TO TELL SEA STORIES ABOUT IT LATER.
Emergency Procedures #I
This will be a several part post on Emergency Procedures to help you get ready for the big opening day coming up pretty fast:
In the event of an emergency, where the Captain is disabled, or otherwise unable to command this vessel, the following emergency procedures will assist in assuring the safety of persons on board and returning the vessel to port safely.
Emergencies fall into two categories, Life Threatening and Non Life Threatening. Life threatening emergencies are those where there is an IMMEDIATE threat to life or property as a result of an event. This may be a heart attack, severe bleeding, internal injuries as a result of a fall, drowning, explosion or fire, a vessel in danger of immediate sinking, etc. These events require immediate action. Non life threatening emergencies are those where assistance is needed, but there is NO IMMEDIATE threat to life or property. This may include grounding, taking on water where there is no immediate danger of sinking, engine failure, running out of fuel, or other breakdown. It is important to determine which of the two categories is evident and act accordingly.
RADIO:
In the event of a LIFE THREATENING EMERGENCY, do this:
1. Be sure the ships radio is turned on.
2. Adjust the squelch down so noise is heard through the speaker.
3. Press the CHANNEL 16 button or move channels up or down to 16.
4. Press the button on the microphone to transmit. Say clearly:
MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY This is the NAME OF YOUR VESSEL AND CALL LETTERS, requesting immediate assistance due to a (medical emergency) (taking on water and in danger of sinking) (etc.) Release the button and listen for an answer. If no answer within 10 seconds, repeat the above message until a response is heard.
When asked, give the following information:
A. The nature of the emergency.
B. The number of people on board.
C. Your position. (Look at the LORAN and/or GPS screen and give position in lat/lon)
D. Description of vessel. (for example, mine would be 36 ft. express cruiser, white hull and decks, red trim, red canvas, registration number CF 1889 SE) and any other information requested.
Do whatever is needed to assure your safety, the safety of others and the vessel. Remember, the vessel comes last. It can be replaced, but YOU can't.
Next..Non-Life threatening Emergencies.
E M E R G E N C Y P R O C E D U R E S
In the event of an emergency, where the Captain is disabled, or otherwise unable to command this vessel, the following emergency procedures will assist in assuring the safety of persons on board and returning the vessel to port safely.
Emergencies fall into two categories, Life Threatening and Non Life Threatening. Life threatening emergencies are those where there is an IMMEDIATE threat to life or property as a result of an event. This may be a heart attack, severe bleeding, internal injuries as a result of a fall, drowning, explosion or fire, a vessel in danger of immediate sinking, etc. These events require immediate action. Non life threatening emergencies are those where assistance is needed, but there is NO IMMEDIATE threat to life or property. This may include grounding, taking on water where there is no immediate danger of sinking, engine failure, running out of fuel, or other breakdown. It is important to determine which of the two categories is evident and act accordingly.
RADIO:
In the event of a LIFE THREATENING EMERGENCY, do this:
1. Be sure the ships radio is turned on.
2. Adjust the squelch down so noise is heard through the speaker.
3. Press the CHANNEL 16 button or move channels up or down to 16.
4. Press the button on the microphone to transmit. Say clearly:
MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY This is the NAME OF YOUR VESSEL AND CALL LETTERS, requesting immediate assistance due to a (medical emergency) (taking on water and in danger of sinking) (etc.) Release the button and listen for an answer. If no answer within 10 seconds, repeat the above message until a response is heard.
When asked, give the following information:
A. The nature of the emergency.
B. The number of people on board.
C. Your position. (Look at the LORAN and/or GPS screen and give position in lat/lon)
D. Description of vessel. (for example, mine would be 36 ft. express cruiser, white hull and decks, red trim, red canvas, registration number CF 1889 SE) and any other information requested.
Do whatever is needed to assure your safety, the safety of others and the vessel. Remember, the vessel comes last. It can be replaced, but YOU can't.
Next..Non-Life threatening Emergencies.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Zero Drug Tolerance and Maritime Drug Rules
The rules of Marine Drug Enforcement are pretty simple. Zero Tolerance. That means if illegal or illicit drugs are found aboard your vessel or that of a friend, you're, well, screwed to use a well known word. There's no second chance, no "aww, please" no catch and release. It's arrest for the offender and seizure of the vessel. If the Coast Guard or Marine Police have even the slightest idea that there might be more drugs aboard, they can, and will, literally dismantle the vessel as it sits and search every cavity and hole, some of which you can't even imagine were there. And you'll be left to put it all back together. Oh sure, you can file a complaint and claim with the government, but remember who got caught with drugs on the vessel? Yeah....
My advice to every boater is to establish and print out a Zero Drug Tolerance policy, enforce it and make sure their guests are aware of it. Post it if necessary! It could save you and your vessel some really bad days and nights or more. Feel free to copy and change the one below to meet your needs.
ZERO TOLERANCE DRUG RULES
No illicit or illegal drugs may be brought on board this vessel at any time, by anyone. Drugs in this category include all compounds or mixtures that are prohibited by law, and/or are not prescribed by a licensed physician for individual use. This includes drugs prescribed for others that are taken by anyone other than the person named on the container.
Prescription drugs, prescribed by a licensed physician for treatment of disease, infection or alleviation of pain, and taken by the person for whom prescribed are not considered illegal drugs under this section.
Any person who brings prohibited or illegal drugs aboard this vessel, or who uses such drugs while aboard this vessel, will be reported to law enforcement authorities immediately upon knowledge that such activities exist.
THIS IS A ZERO DRUG TOLERANCE VESSEL.
IF YOU USE OR CARRY DRUGS, DO NOT COME ABOARD.
IF YOU DO, YOU WILL BE TURNED OVER TO LAW ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITIES IMMEDIATELY FOR ARREST AND PROSECUTION.
Safe and Drug-Free Boating!
My advice to every boater is to establish and print out a Zero Drug Tolerance policy, enforce it and make sure their guests are aware of it. Post it if necessary! It could save you and your vessel some really bad days and nights or more. Feel free to copy and change the one below to meet your needs.
ZERO TOLERANCE DRUG RULES
No illicit or illegal drugs may be brought on board this vessel at any time, by anyone. Drugs in this category include all compounds or mixtures that are prohibited by law, and/or are not prescribed by a licensed physician for individual use. This includes drugs prescribed for others that are taken by anyone other than the person named on the container.
Prescription drugs, prescribed by a licensed physician for treatment of disease, infection or alleviation of pain, and taken by the person for whom prescribed are not considered illegal drugs under this section.
Any person who brings prohibited or illegal drugs aboard this vessel, or who uses such drugs while aboard this vessel, will be reported to law enforcement authorities immediately upon knowledge that such activities exist.
THIS IS A ZERO DRUG TOLERANCE VESSEL.
IF YOU USE OR CARRY DRUGS, DO NOT COME ABOARD.
IF YOU DO, YOU WILL BE TURNED OVER TO LAW ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITIES IMMEDIATELY FOR ARREST AND PROSECUTION.
Safe and Drug-Free Boating!
MARPOL, Garbage, Trash. Waste and Sewage Plans
What's a MARPOL? Sounds like a new animal at the San Diego Zoo. Nope, it's the Marine Pollution Treaty, and one section that is very important to all boaters is Annex 5, regarding trash and garbage disposal in our waterways.
Primarily, MARPOL strictly prohibits the disposal of ANY plastics, products containing plastics, or their derivatives, on ANY body of water in the world. This means there can no longer be dumping of plastics at sea, regardless of the distance you are off the coast.
In addition MARPOL further restricts the dumping of trash, garbage and foodstuffs within certain limits of the United States coastline. Vessels are required to post a MARPOL plaque or sign outlining the requirements, in the same manner that vessels are required to post NO Discharge placards.
For some vessels, a trash and garbage plan is required by law. I believe it would be prudent to have such a plan available for view in the event of boarding by authorities, regardless of your vessel size, or legal requirements. It just makes good sense. And, in the event you have a guest who does not abide by the rules, and disposes of prohibited materials, you can at least show that you have made the effort to comply with the law.
Copies of a sample Trash and Garbage plan are available in some Marina Offices. These may go beyond what is required, but afford a little more protection for the environment, and you. Become familiar with MARPOL requirements, and tailor the plan to suit your needs, and meet the requirements of this international law.
The following is a simple plan I used on my vessel:
TRASH & GARBAGE PLAN
It is the intention of the captain of this vessel to comply fully with all provisions of Annex 5 of the MARPOL TREATY. In addition, it is further intended to comply fully with all trash and garbage disposal provisions of state and local law.
At NO time will plastics, or products containing plastics or their derivatives, be allowed to be dumped from this vessel. The captain and crew recognize the significant exposure to our environment that plastic materials pose, and will take every precaution to preclude this material from entering our waters.
The following rules are in effect and will be enforced at all times aboard this vessel, whether dockside or underway.
DOCKSIDE:
All trash, garbage and other disposable materials, regardless of type or composition, will be disposed of in trash containers or dumpsters provided for disposal. Trash and garbage will be kept on the vessel in plastic bags, or plastic bags in plastic cans, until disposal is required. At that time the bags will be sealed securely with plastic or wire ties, and carried to approved disposal containers or dumpsters on the shore.
UNDERWAY:
A: Rivers, Bays, Sounds and within 3 miles from shore:
All trash, garbage and other disposable materials, regardless of type or composition, will be maintained aboard the vessel for the duration it is out of port. Trash and garbage will be kept in plastic bags or plastic bags in plastic cans until full. At that time the bags will be sealed securely with plastic or wire ties and placed in the locker under the wet bar on the main deck. When the vessel returns to port, these bags will be carried to approved disposal containers or dumpsters on the shore. Simply stated, NO trash or garbage will be disposed of from this vessel when operating in the above stated area.
B: 3 to 12 miles from shore:
Garbage, consisting of foodstuffs only, smaller than one inch in size, may be disposed of by dumping overboard. ONLY those foodstuffs that meet this criteria may be dumped. All trash and other disposable materials, regardless of type or composition, will be maintained aboard the vessel for the duration of the voyage. Trash and other disposable materials will be kept on the vessel in plastic bags or plastic bags in plastic cans until full. At that time the bags will be sealed securely with plastic or wire ties and placed in the locker under the wet bar on the main deck. When the vessel returns to port, these bags will be carried to approved disposal containers or dumpsters on the shore.
C: 12 to 25 miles and outside 25 miles:
Garbage, consisting of foodstuffs only, may be disposed of by dumping overboard. Where possible, foodstuffs will be reduced to the smallest dimensions possible to reduce bulk and facilitate degradability.
As regards trash and other disposable materials, this vessel will adhere to the same commitment as stated in section (B) above. NO trash or other disposable materials will be dumped in our oceans. All materials, other than foodstuffs will be returned to shore for proper disposal.
WASTE & SEWAGE PLAN
It is the intention of the Captain and crew of this vessel to comply fully with all laws and regulations pertaining to the discharge of waste. This vessel has no direct overboard connections from the head; all waste must first pass into the holding tank before it can be discharged from the vessel.
IN PORT & WITHIN 3 MILES OF THE COAST:
At all times when this vessel is docked, or when it is moored or anchored within three (3) miles of the United States coast, the coast of any island or other land mass within U. S. Territorial Waters, where waste disposal is otherwise restricted, or in designated "No Discharge Zones", all sanitary waste will be held within the holding tank provided on the vessel. Discharge of such waste will be ONLY to pump out stations designated for the pump out of waste from vessels, or other shore facilities as may be designated for that purpose. In NO case will sewage be discharged into the water. Where required by local law or ordinance, dye disclosing tablets supplied by that jurisdiction will be placed in the holding tank.
AT SEA:
When this vessel is underway or anchored outside the three (3) mile limit, or outside other areas as may be designated by regulation or law, waste and sewage as contents of the holding tank may be pumped overboard after first passing through the macerator pump to reduce particulate matter to minimum dimensions.
Safe (and Healthy) Boating!
Monday, January 12, 2009
Exxon Valdez, Greedy Oil and Idiots on the Bench
Incidentally, the ruling by the Supreme Court cut the judgment against Exxon-Mobil from 2.5 billion dollars to 507 million dollars, resulting in a Pyrrhic victory for the aggrieved Alaskans in the case. A Pyrrhic victory is one where the cost of victory is far outweighed by the damages of battle, such as was in this case. Losing the army to win the battle, or in this case, the environment, only to have the court say you weren't worth all that much, is a hollow win in any court. What a terrible cost to be awarded such minuscule damages, when Exxon made over 40 billion dollars in profits last year alone. Nobody ever proved the captain to be inebriated, but the stigma still hangs there like a heavy fog on a still night. Was he? Nobody will ever know but him.
I'm not a tree hugger by any means, but just one look at what that spill did to the animals, the environment, the people and their livelihood, both long and short term is abysmal. Exxon should be ashamed, and moreover damned, for their cavalier attitude and concern only for the almighty dollar in profits. Once again, big oil screws the mariner, if not in the fuel tank, in the wallet in one way or the other.
I come from a ship building and fishing heritage, and understand the dedication of the Alaskan fishermen, and the hardships they face in good times, nonetheless years of pollution ravaged waters and coastline to deal with. My heart is with you in Alaska, fellow mariners.
I'm not a tree hugger by any means, but just one look at what that spill did to the animals, the environment, the people and their livelihood, both long and short term is abysmal. Exxon should be ashamed, and moreover damned, for their cavalier attitude and concern only for the almighty dollar in profits. Once again, big oil screws the mariner, if not in the fuel tank, in the wallet in one way or the other.
I come from a ship building and fishing heritage, and understand the dedication of the Alaskan fishermen, and the hardships they face in good times, nonetheless years of pollution ravaged waters and coastline to deal with. My heart is with you in Alaska, fellow mariners.
POLLUTION SOLUTION
Marine pollution has a lot of people worried. The environmentalists, lawmakers, law enforcement people, and most of all, boaters. Whether you have power or sail, there lurks in your bilge areas a significant threat to the environment, and your wallet...your engine and its fuel supply.
New legislation enacted a few years ago carries a clean up penalty of up to $500,000 for a marine oil or fuel spill. And, the spill doesn't have to be the size of the Exxon Valdez disaster to cost YOU a bunch! YOU are responsible for ALL the cost of cleanup and repair of ALL damage resultant from a discharge of contaminants from your vessel, accidental or not.
This means that should your discharged fuel damage the bottom paint on 50 boats, you can be held liable for the cost of hauling, repainting and any other resultant damage. If your discharge is shown to damage a waterfowl habitat, you could be required to foot the bill for restoration. And, you don't want to even think about the cost of that. If people become ill from eating contaminated fish or shellfish, you could be held liable for that too. Now, add to that the criminal penalties, including imprisonment in a federal facility, and you can get a very rough overview of the tough new pollution laws.
Most boaters are environmental sensitive people, who want to preserve the natural beauty, and the joys of boating as long as possible. I don't think any pleasure boater intentionally wants to foul the environment, yet we are becoming targeted by certain groups as the bad guys in the environmental battle. We need to do more ourselves, and take control of overboard discharges, to reduce the potential for others to take control over our boating lifestyle. We're already seeing major thrusts in marine engine pollution reduction, in both inboard and outboard engines, brought about by government regulations. In some areas, boating has been targeted as a pollution hazard, and some have sought regulation as to the days of the week you can operate your boat in certain areas.
Some quick fix tips to reduce pollution:
New legislation enacted a few years ago carries a clean up penalty of up to $500,000 for a marine oil or fuel spill. And, the spill doesn't have to be the size of the Exxon Valdez disaster to cost YOU a bunch! YOU are responsible for ALL the cost of cleanup and repair of ALL damage resultant from a discharge of contaminants from your vessel, accidental or not.
This means that should your discharged fuel damage the bottom paint on 50 boats, you can be held liable for the cost of hauling, repainting and any other resultant damage. If your discharge is shown to damage a waterfowl habitat, you could be required to foot the bill for restoration. And, you don't want to even think about the cost of that. If people become ill from eating contaminated fish or shellfish, you could be held liable for that too. Now, add to that the criminal penalties, including imprisonment in a federal facility, and you can get a very rough overview of the tough new pollution laws.
Most boaters are environmental sensitive people, who want to preserve the natural beauty, and the joys of boating as long as possible. I don't think any pleasure boater intentionally wants to foul the environment, yet we are becoming targeted by certain groups as the bad guys in the environmental battle. We need to do more ourselves, and take control of overboard discharges, to reduce the potential for others to take control over our boating lifestyle. We're already seeing major thrusts in marine engine pollution reduction, in both inboard and outboard engines, brought about by government regulations. In some areas, boating has been targeted as a pollution hazard, and some have sought regulation as to the days of the week you can operate your boat in certain areas.
Some quick fix tips to reduce pollution:
- Keep a few disposable oil absorbent pillows on hand to sop up oil spillage from bilges.
- Use absorbent pads to catch spills from oil changes or minor bilge spills.
- Clean up spilled oil or diesel before you use bilge cleaner. A gallon of bilge cleaner and water mixed with a quart of oil produces 5 quarts of hazardous waste. It's better to get the spill up first, then use bilge cleaner or detergent to clean up the residue.
- If you have an oil or diesel leak, fix it. Or, if it's one you can't stop completely, use absorber pillows, tied securely so as not to foul your bilge pumps. Don't let oily waste be pumped overboard.
- Dispose of hazardous waste in approved dumps. If you don't know what to do with your oily waste, contact the marina office for help.
- Never flush toilets or waste overboard in prohibited areas. Almost all regulations now require waste be held in approved holding tanks until it can be removed at dockside sanitary pump-out facilities. Some regulations no longer allow overboard discharge even outside the three-mile coastal limit. Check before you discharge. If in doubt, use shore pump-out!
- Porta-Potties can't be dumped overboard either. They must be brought to a discharge area for release of their contents. Most public rest rooms will not allow them to be drained there, so you can use marina facilities, your toilet when you return home, or an RV facility.
Finally, remember that boating, like our environment, is something we all want to leave for our children and their children to enjoy. Let's do what we can to preserve boating as we know and enjoy it.
Safe boating!
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