COLREGSSIGNAL YOUR INTENTThe "Rules of the Road" or Collision Avoidance Regulations (COLREGS) were designed to give direction to vessels in order to set a standard that everyone could follow in order to prevent collisions of two or more vessels. They are many in number and cover almost every imaginable sequence of events which may lead to collision. You do not have to memorize them all but be aware of the basic rules which apply in order to operate safely on the water. We wish to acknowledge the COLREGS (copyright acknowledgement source colregs) which are used here to avoid any conotations. OVER RIDING EXCEPTIONS
Pleasure craft do not have a unlimited right of way. Good SeamanshipPracticing the art of good seamanship is a talent that is developed over time by acquiring knowledge and skills. You must keep safety foremost in your mind when operating your boat. Do what you can to stay out of the way of other boats. You will be using terms when dealing with the rules of the road which may be unfamiliar to you. Because the rules are federal laws, the definitions of these terms are important. The following terms are found throughout the rules of the road. You should have a thorough understanding of their meaning. Vessel - Every craft of any description used or capable of being used on the water.
Proper LookoutThe rules are very specific about maintaining a proper lookout. We must keep eyes and ears open to observe or hear something which may endanger someone or affect their safety. You must look up for bridge clearances and power lines, down for floats, swimmers, logs and divers flags and side to side for traffic prior to turning your boat. A proper lookout can avoid surprises. A good rule to follow is to assign one or more people to have no other assigned responsibilities except the task of lookout. They can then rotate the lookout duty.Sound SignalsIf you were to operate in New York Harbor or the Cheasepeke you would well understand the importance of being able to signal your intention. The number of times I have used whistles to indicate my intentions only to find that the other vessel did not understand to even more remote reactions prompts this page. Vessels are required to sound signals any time that they are in close quarters and risk of collision exists. The following signals are the only ones to be used to signal a vessel's intentions (inland rules only).
Note: Inland rules (Great Lakes) use sound signals to indicate intent to maneuver. |