United States Coast Guard Auxiliary

1
United States Coast Guard Auxiliary

• VE BOOT CAMP
• A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Prepared by the NATIONAL DIRECTORATE FOR VESSEL
EXAMINATION AND RECREATIONAL BOATING SAFETY
VISITATION
2
VE Workshop 2013

• Goal
• Simplify VE Issues.
• Answer Long Standing VE Questions.
• Keep VE Knowledge Current.

3
VSC Decals and Proper Placement

• Only One Decal Per Vessel.
• New Decal May be Placed Over Previous.
• Place on Port Side Window or Superstructure.
• Vessel owner May Apply Sticker Under Your
  Supervision.

4
Vessel Information

• Documented Vessels
• In addition to documentation no. most states
  require the boat be registered.
• Match structural HIN to current registration.
• Note placement of registration decal based on
  state requirements.

5
Documented Vessel No.

• Clearly visible permanently affixed on interior
  structural part.
• Proceeded by No. in block type Arabic numerals 3
  inches in height.
• Permanently etched in wood or fiber glassed using
  epoxy on the hull.

6
Documented Vessel Hull Display

• Name and hailing port together on the hull,
  usually on the stern.
• Often the name also appears on both sides of the
  bow.
• 4 inches in height.
• Contrasting color.
• Clearly readable.

7
Vessel Information
8
Vessel Information

• Undocumented Vessels
• Match HIN to Current Registration (Transom).
• Numbers and State Decals
• Forward of Midship
• Not Less Than 3
• Block Letters of Contrasting Color

9
Vessel Information

• Permanently Affixed Decals or Painted.
• State Decals Affixed as Required by Individual
  State.
• NJ-1234-AB
• or
• NJ 1234 AB

10
High Focus Vessels

• Definition
• Vessels Less Than 16.
• Vessels 16 - 25.
• Vessels Powered By Other.
• All PWCs .
• Non Powered High Focus Vessels use New Form 7012A.

11
Life Jackets

• Coast Guard Approved Label.
• Speed Rating.
• Type.
• Condition.

12
Life Jackets

• Speed Rating
• Check Label
• Standard Jackets lt 35 kph
• Must gt Vessel Speed
• Speed rating is not intended to mean bodily
  protection, just strength of jacket.

13
Life Jackets

• Type
• Type V Not Acceptable for PWC.
• Childrens Jackets
• Sized to Any Child on Board and Meet Size/Weight
  Requirements.
• Leg Strap, Head Support / Lift Handle.

14
Life Jackets

• Condition
• Squeeze Test
• Straps and Buckles
• Fabric Condition

15
Visual Distress Signals

• lt 42 Months
• Operating in coastal waters as defined in 33 CFR
  175.101 (refer to Boaters Guide to
• Federal Regulations).
• Some Means of Signaling.
• Proper Color.
• Condition (moisture damaged).
• State Regulations May Differ.

16
Visual Distress Signals
17
Visual Distress Signals
18
Visual Distress Signals

• Discuss Proper Disposal
• Save Dated Flares in Good Condition.
• Contact Local Fire, Police or Town.
• Arrange a Date to Demonstrate Proper Use
• Notify Authorities First.
• Do Not Collect Outdated Flares.
• Do Not Submerge in Water.

19
Fire Extinquishers

• VSC Does Not Require Mounting
• BUT,
• A Lost or Misplaced Extinguisher Has Zero Value!
• Once a Fire is Going, it is Not the Time to Look
  for an Extinguisher.

20
Fire Extinguishers

• Discussion With Boat Owner
• The Best Place for a Fire Extinguisher Is Between
  You and the Fire.
• Think Out Fire Safety Before the Fire Occurs.

21
Fire Extinguishers

• Replace Dry Chemical Extinguishers
• Every 12 Years.
• When Gage Reads Recharge.
• Turning Up Side Down is Not Recommended (may
  cause more harm than good).

22
What Does The Gauge Tell You?
Insufficient propellant to expel agent .
23
Discharge Tube
Tube which conducts agent to the nozzle and out
to fire.
24
Fire Extinguishers

• Examiner When Checking Fire Safety Equipment, If
  You Are Not Sure, Get
• HELP!

25
Fire Extinguishers

• Recognize Types of Extinguishers
• Dry Chemical, Type A,B,C.
• CO-2
• Foam
• Halogenated (Halon and Related)
• FM200 Agent
• Pyrogen

26
Fire Extinguishers

• FM200 Agent
• New Safe Replacement for Halogens.
• Pyrogen
• New Non Pressurized Marine Extinguishers.

27
Ventilation

• Test for Actual Air Leaving Blower Discharge.
• Observe Pickup Is Above Normal Bilge Water Level.
• Pickup Pipe Is Attached to the Blower .

28
Backfire Flame Arrestor

• Clean
• Securely in Place
• No Holes or Other Damage
• USCG APPROVED

29
Sound Producing Devices

• Navigation Rules require sound signals to be made
  under certain circumstances as well as during
  periods of reduced visibility and while at
  anchor.
• Sound producing devices required as follows

Vessel Length Whistle Bell Gong
39.4 ft or more X
65.6 ft or more X X
328.1 ft or more X X X
30
Navigation Lights

• All Navigation Lights Must be Operational.
• Proper Color.
• Appropriate for Vessel.
• Proper Arc of Visibility.

31
Pollution Placard

• Every Vessel gt 26 Feet With a Machinery
  Compartment Must Display an Oily Waste
  Pollution Placard.

32
MARPOL Trash Placard

• Every Vessel gt26 Feet Must Display a MARPOL
  Trash Placard.
• Every Vessel gt 40 Feet Must Have a Written Trash
  Disposal Plan.

33
Marine Sanitation Devices

• US Coat Guard Approved.
• Sealed Against Overboard Discharge.
• Option Locked Compartment Door.

34
Navigation Rules

• Required on All Vessel Over 39.4 Feet.
• Recommend Quick Reference for Smaller Vessels.
• Lack of Knowledge Is No Excuse.
• Free download on the Internet !!
• Inland Rules Will Apply to Most.

35
State and or Local Requirements

• Know Rules Where You Give VSCs.
• Boater Must Know Rules in Their Area.
• What Does State of Registry Require Above the
  Coast Guard Requirements ?
• See Rules Compilation for Our Area.

36
State and Local Requirements

• Examiners Must Be Familiar With Their Own Area.
• Reference to Lifejackets, Anchors, Noise, age
  Requirements, Licensing.
• Examiner Should Carry State Pamphlet or Handbook
  Listing Local Regulations to Distribute.

37
State and Local Requirements

• Know Local, State Safe Boating Offices and
  Websites.
• Know Local Police and Coast Guard
• Location
• Phone Numbers (911 is not always a good solution)
  .
• Radio Frequencies

38
Overall Vessel Condition

• Any Observable Impediment to Safety.
• Oil or Gas Contaminated Bilge.
• Oil Soaked or Loose Wiring.
• Cluttered Decks.
• Unsafe Mechanical Installations.
• Propane Fuel in Cabin Space.

39
Overall Vessel Condition

• Things Often Overlooked
• Deck Rails, Fittings
• Angle of Navigation Light Display
• Bilge Condition/cleanliness
• Portable Tank Tie Down
• Battery Tie Down

40
Overall Vessel Condition

• Things often overlooked Continued
• Wiring properly secured.
• Grease or oil on wires.
• Check fuel line type for E-10.

41
Electrical and Fuel Systems

• Battery Terminals Covered.
• Battery Secured to Vessel.
• Wiring and Devices Protected From Water and
  Spray.
• Wiring Bundled and Free From Oil/dirt, other
  Contaminants.

42
Electrical and Fuel Systems

• Fuel Systems Free of All Corrosion Leaks.
• Fuel Lines and Tanks Compatible With Ethanol.
• All Installed Tanks Must Be Secured and Have a
  Vapor/leak Proof Cap.
• Portable Tanks Must Also Have Vapor Proof Vents.

43
Electrical and Fuel Systems

• Fuel Systems Free of All Corrosion Leaks.
• Fuel Lines and Tanks Compatible With Ethanol.

44
Galley and Heating Systems

• Systems Secured.
• Proper Piping to Stove.
• Spill Ledge on Stove.
• Check that curtains and other flammable material
  near the stove are secure and recommend they be
  pushed aside or removed when in it is in use.
• Heating System Properly Vented.

45
Recommended and Discussion

• At Least One Good Marine Radio on Board
• Capable of All Main Channels.
• Decent Antenna Installation (height).
• MMSI Capable.
• Tested to Portable.

46
Recommended and Discussion

• Dewatering Device and backup
• Pump
• Pail
• Manual Pump
• Collision mat

47
Recommended and Discussion

• Mounted Fire Extinguishers!
• This MUST be stressed.
• More than the minimum !!
• Highly Visible Locations.
• Frequently checked.

48
Recommended and Discussion

• Anchor and line for Area
• What is depth of local waters
• Proper Size and Length of Rode
• What about a Spare?
• What type of bottom

49
Recommended and Discussion

• First Aid Kit
• Bandages
• Scissors
• Knife
• Sunburn Spray

50
Recommended and Discussion

• First Aid Kit
• Some Splinting Material
• Other Miscellaneous F/A Items
• Duct Tape

51
Recommended and Discussion

• PIW Kit
• One wearable PFD for each boater
• One Throwable
• Line Attached to Throwable

52
Inland VDS

• Inland VDS Should Be
• Mirror
• Dye Marker
• Orange and Black Circle, Square
• Any Functional International Signaling Device.

53
Inland VDS

• Not required per Federal Regulation however,
  check State regulations.
• May be a bad decision to risk not having.
• What is your life worth?
• As a VE, explain what is available.

54
Off Shore Defined for VDS
55
Recommendation Discussion

• Capacity and Certificate of Compliance
• An Opportunity to Make Client Aware of
• Vessel Freeboard
• Capacity Limitations and Consequences
• Scientific Approach to Safety

56
Recommendation Discussion

• Accident Reporting
• Limits of Reporting
• Death or Missing (48 hours)
• Injury Requiring Medical Attention Beyond First
  Aid (48 hours)
• Damage of More Than 2,000 (10 days)
• Notification time and procedures may vary by
  State.

57
Recommendation Discussion

• Accident Reporting
• USCG Form
• Http//www.Uscg.Mil/forms/cg/cg_3865.Pdf
• Requirements
• VE Manual M16796.8
• Chapter 2, B, 9. Page 2-4

58
Recommendation Discussion

• Accident Reporting Continued
• Send Forms to
• Local or State Authorities as Appropriate

59
Recommendation Discussion

• Off Shore Operations
• Attention to Supplies Needed
• First Aid Enhancement
• Fuel 1/3 Rule
• Weather Briefing
• Weather Signs
• Forecast VS Sequence

60
Recommendation Discussion

• Offshore Operations
• Mechanical Checks
• Communications Capability SSB
• Current Charts
• Float Plan
• http//www.floatplancentral.org/download/USCGFloat
  Plan.pdf

61
Recommendation Discussion

• Nautical Charts
• Charts of Current Date
• Area Charts
• Local Charts Docking Info (harbor)
• Quality Issue
• LNM on Board

62
Recommendation Discussion

• Survival Tips
• Hypothermia Discussion
• Help / Huddle
• Thermal Blankets
• Phone and Comms for Local Area
• Medical Knowledge of Passengers

63
Recommendation Discussion

• Survival Tips
• EPIRBS
• VDS
• Adequate Supplies on Board

64
Recommendation Discussion

• Fuel Management
• 1/3 Rule
• Stress Currents and wind
• Copy of Coast Pilot
• Check Weather
• Reserve to alternate Destination
• Fuel Consumption facts

65
Recommendation Discussion

• Float Plan
• Who to Leave It With.
• Who to Call Advising Your Late Arrival.
• What to Do If You Change Your Plans.
• Cost in Lives and for False Alarm.
• Inform of Any Changes .
• http//www.floatplancentral.org/download/USCGFloat
  Plan.pdf.

66
Recommendation and Discussion

• Weather Briefing Prior to Departure.
• Get a Sequence (current weather).
• Get a Forecast ( whats coming for the duration).
• Set Your Limits (small craft, 2-4 seas).
• Wind and Wave Action Expected.
• Night Temperatures (highs for day, cold for
  night).

67
Recommendation and Discussion

• Process and Make Informed Decision
• Go or Not Go.

68
Recommendation and Discussion

• Insurance
• Discuss Coverage for Liability(damage to others).
• Injury to Your Own Passengers.
• Hull Coverage. Replacement Cost.
• Towing and Temporary Accommodations.
• Cost of False Search Rescue.

69
Recommendation and Discussion

• Boating Checklist
• All Needed for Basic Safety.
• Special Needs for Intended Purpose.
• Signaling Devices.
• Hot/cold Supplies .
• Adequate Water/Food.

70
Recommendation and Discussion

• Boating Checklist
• Fuel for the Intended Voyage.
• Fuel for the Return Trip.
• Fuel to Alternate Safe Harbor.
• Reserve.

71
Recommendation and Discussion

• Stress the Link Between Safety and Increased
  Knowledge.
• Safe Boating Classes
• Use the VSC to Promote Marine Education
• ABS
• BSS
• SSS
• Weekend Navigator
• GPS

72
Recommendation and Discussion

• Join the Auxiliary
• Point Out the Benefits of Membership in the
  Auxiliary !!
• Education
• Fellowship
• Knowledge Base
• Giving Back

73
Marine Domain Awareness (MDA)

• (MDA) is the effective understanding of anything
  associated with the global maritime environment
  that could affect the security, safety, economy,
  or environment.
• The Obligation to Be AWARE
• The Eyes of the Masses

74
Marine Domain Awareness

• Persistently Monitor the Domain
• Vessels and Craft
• Cargo
• Vessel Crews and Passengers
• All Identified Areas of Interest

75
Marine Domain Awareness

• Reporting Method
• Call the National Response Center
• 877-24-WATCH
• 877-249-2824
• Explain the Importance to the Client

76
Final Thoughts

• Be Well Versed in the Above.
• Your VSC Will Be Worthwhile.
• Provide True Value to the Client.
• Enhance Boating Safety.

77
Final Thoughts

• Fulfill the Goals of Our Program.
• Gives You a Sense of Pride.
• Maybe Save a Life or Two.
• Do the Best Vessel Exam You Can !!