Safety Equipment Required for Class “A” Recreational Vessels

 

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission communicates boating regulations in the state. This applies to vessels lesser than 16 ft. long, Canoes and Kayaks:

Carry personal flotation devices (PFDs):

The boat must have an approved Type I, II or III for each person on board or being towed on water skies etc. The flotation device Must be USCG-approved, in serviceable condition, and properly stored.

NOTE: A Type V hybrid may substitute for any Type I, II, or III device, but must be worn whenever the vessel is underway and the person is not in the cabin or other enclosed area.

When navigating in a vessel class A every person on board under the age of 6 must wear an approved Type I, II, or III while the vessel is underway.

If you have a personal watercraft (PWC) everyone on or operating it must wear an approved Type I, II, III or V PFD. The inflatable PFDs are prohibited.

Also, every person skiing or aquaplaning must wear an approved Type I, II or III PFD. Inflatable PFDs are prohibited.

 

Fire Extinguishers:

Make sure your fire extinguishers are USCG-approved - Must be in serviceable condition. An USCG-approved B-1 type fire extinguisher is required for all recreational motorboats except outboard-powered motorboats less than 26 feet long if constructed in a manner that will not allow gas fumes to accumulate.

If your boat has a built-in fuel tank, an inboard engine, compartments where portable fuel tanks may be stored, or open areas between the hull and deck where flammable or explosive gases could accumulate, you must carry a fire extinguisher. Non-motorized boats are exempt from the fire extinguisher requirements.

NOTE: When an approved fixed fire extinguishing system is installed in the machinery space(s), it may be counted in the place of one B-I type hand-held portable fire extinguisher. Some fire extinguishers require specific mounting brackets for approval. Read the label on your fire extinguisher for this information.

Visual Distress Signal:

It is required on the high sea and coastal waters only, and it has to be carried for nighttime use.

NOTE: Coastal waters means the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico and all bays, sounds, harbors, rivers, inlets, etc. where any entrance is over 2 miles wide to the first point where the distance between shorelines narrows to 2 miles.

Sound-producing Device:

It could be a bell, horn, whistle etc. The regulation rule says that every vessel less than 12 meters (39.4 ft.) in length must carry an efficient sound-producing device. They don’t have any particular specifications; the vessel just needs to produce signals required by the navigational rules.

Backfire Flame Control:

There is a need to control backfire flame of all gasoline engines installed after April 25, 1940, except outboard motors. These backfire flame arrestors must be USCG approved.

Ventilation:

For boats built prior to Aug. 1, 1980 you must have at least two ventilator ducts fitted with cowls or their equivalent to ventilate the bilges of every closed engine and fuel-tank compartment on boats constructed or decked over after April 25, 1940, using gasoline as fuel or other fuels having a flash point of 110 degrees or less.

For boats built after Aug. 1, 1980 you must have at least two ventilator ducts for the purpose of efficiently ventilating every closed compartment that contains a gasoline engine and every closed compartment containing a gasoline tank, except for those having permanently installed tanks which vent outside the boat and contain no unprotected electrical devices. Also, engine compartments containing a gasoline engine having a cranking motor must contain power operated exhaust blowers which can be controlled from the instrument panel.

Vessel Lighting:

If you own a recreational vessel, remember that is required to display navigation lights between sunset and sunrise and during periods of reduced visibility (fog, rain, haze, etc). The U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Rules specify lighting requirements for every description of watercraft.

Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Boating Activities

Boating is a very rewarding pastime that everybody can enjoy. But, while out on the water, there are several things those boating can do. Everyone can find something they enjoy while boating. Here are some of our favorite boating activities:

• Relaxation: Being out on the open water, floating along, can be very relaxing. You’ll be surrounded by the sounds of the ocean: lapping waves, a breeze, some birds squawking overhead. These all make for a very peaceful time.

• Fishing: Everyone can enjoy fishing every now and then. You can even get yourself some nice dinner while fishing. Or, you can catch and release the fish. Either way, fishing is an activity that will for sure be an enjoyable experience

• Swimming: Of course, while boating, you can cool off by taking a dip in the water and swimming around. Whether you’re on a lake or in the ocean, a swim is sure to be very refreshing.

• Water Skiing: If you love to feel the spray of water and wind on your face, water skiing is an activity you’ll love. You can ski on the water and feel the exhilaration of zooming by wave after wave

• Tubing: Water skiing isn’t for everyone. But if you still want the experience of zooming through the water, tubing could be your solution. Children also will enjoy tubing if they are not able to water ski.

• Sightseeing: The Ocean is a beautiful place. No matter where you go, you’ll have a nice view of the water or the horizon or the land in the distance. You may even see some fantastic animals while out on the water, like dolphins or whales. 

• Bonding: The experience of boating is one you can share with friends and family. You’ll be sure to have a great time, made better by spending it with those you love. It can be a great bonding experience for all of you.

Next time you’re planning to go out boating, remember all these activities you can do. And always remember that for any boating concern you may have, Whiticar Boat Works will be there for you to help you in every way we can.

To learn more about boats, boat sales, repairs, services & accessories, please contact Whiticar Boat Works. We have two locations in the Treasure Coast for your convenience:

STUART, FL location:  3636 SE Old St. Lucie Blvd, Stuart, Florida, 34996.

FT. PIERCE, FL location: 2010 Harbor Town Drive,Suite K,              Ft. Pierce, FL 34946

Give us a call at: (772) 287-2883 or email us anytime at: info@whiticar.com

Whiticar Boat Works of Stuart, Florida Named Boatyard of the Year by the American Boat Builders & Repairers Association

Four Other Industry Leaders in Florida, Rhode Island and North Carolina Receive ABBRAAwards of Excellence from the National Group

Fort Lauderdale, FL – January 26, 2015 – The 2015 Boatyard of the Year honor was presented to Whiticar Boat Works of Stuart, Florida at the American Boat Builders & Repairers Association (ABBRA) Boatyard Business Conference Awards Dinner held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida from January 21st –23rd. Given to a service or repair facility that demonstrates excellence in all facets of their company through commitment to customer service, quality management, stewardship in environmental and safety issues, and positive vendor and employee relations. This award is one of ABBRA’s most prestigious Awards of Excellence. Jim Dragseth, president of Whiticar Boat Works accepted the award.

Located on Willoughby Creek just two miles east of the St. Lucie Inlet on the east coast of Florida, Whiticar has been in continuous operation for the past 60 years. Ownership of the company has passed between fathers and sons, and so too has the dedication to superior workmanship, outstanding customer service and in-depth knowledge of the boating lifestyle. The company was founded by Curt Whitcar who was later joined by his brother-in-law John Dragseth to run the business. The facility is designated a Florida Clean Boatyard by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and Jim Dragseth and John Whiticar are at the helm leading the company into the modern era. Their expansions have included the establishment of Shearwater Marine in 1996, Whiticar Custom Boats in 2000 (Building boats since the 1930’s), Whiticar Marine North in 2003, and Whiticar Yacht Sales in 2004. ABBRA president John Fitzgerald said, “Whiticar employs a wonderful array of talented professionals and the company relies on the old fashioned pride they take in a job well done. However, lest you think, they are a relic of past success, their web presence features two Facebook pages, a Twitter feed, Youtube videos and a blog! They are a wonderful example of the great tradition of ABBRA boatyards with a storied past and a determination to service their customers into a bright future.”

Dragseth said, “It is humbling and very rewarding to be recognized by ABBRA, Thank you very much for this honor.” Whiticar Boat Works joins a group of several other distinguished boatyards around the country to receive the Boat Yard of the Year award. These include facilities such as Thunderbolt Marine in Georgia, Front Street Shipyard in Maine, Jarrett Bay Boatyard in North Carolina, Newport Shipyard in Rhode Island, and Keefe Kaplan Maritime in California that are recipients of the ABBRA Boatyard of the Year honor.

About American Boat Builders & Repairers Association (ABBRA)

Founded in 1943, ABBRA is a national marine trade organization that represents, is dedicated to, and seeks to strengthen and encourage professionalism in the boat building, boat repair, and marine service industry.

For more news, visit our website: whiticar.com

Source: whiticar.com

Boating in Bad Weather

While out boating, weather changes can happen quickly around you. In the case that you are out on the water and it seems bad weather is rapidly approaching, you should try to get to shore if possible. However, it is not always possible to get to the shore in the case of bad weather. In that case, there are some things that you should remember if you are ever boating in bad weather. 

Preparedness: While heading out to see, you should check the weather forecasts for any chance of approaching bad weather. In the case of bad weather, it is best to not head out to sea at all. If forecasts show no or little chance of bad weather, it is still important to have all the supplies ready in case the weather quickly changes.

Body of Water: The body of water you are in will affect the waves around you. Deep waters will have slower, more rolling waves that should be easier to manage. However, in shallower water, the same wind can create bigger waves that become more dangerous.

Knowing boat: Be aware that no two boats will react in the same way to different weather conditions. Even two boats with the same design will react differently due to other factors besides the design, such as the load. Make sure you know how your boat reacts to bad weather.

Move at 45°angles: Moving at an angle of 45° will be much safer, whether you are moving parallel to the waves or away from the waves. This angle will allow you to lessen the strain put on the hull, avoid running in the trough of the waves (which can make your boat roll excessively), and avoid too high speeds when running ahead of the waves. If an angle of 45° will take you off course, then you can move in a zigzag pattern and will remain headed in the same direction.

Heaving to: Sometimes, conditions may be too severe to continue on course. In this case, you could heave to, a way of slowing the boat.

Boating is a fun activity for all to joy. However, one should always be mindful of the weather conditions. In the case that you are out boating, remember some of these facts. 

To learn more about boats, boat sales, repairs, services & accessories, please contact Whiticar Boat Works. We have two locations in the Treasure Coast for your convenience:

STUART, FL location:  3636 SE Old St. Lucie Blvd, Stuart, Florida, 34996.

FT. PIERCE, FL location: 2010 Harbor Town Drive,Suite K,              Ft. Pierce, FL 34946

Give us a call at: (772) 287-2883 or email us anytime at: info@whiticar.com

whiticar.com 

Tips on Cleaning Your Boat

Boating is a fun activity that anyone can enjoy. But, to get the most out of the experience, you want to make sure that you have a clean environment to enjoy it in. Here are some great tips to remember about keeping your boat clean:

Exterior:

• Keep all materials handy, including a brush with a long handle and bristles that won’t scratch finish, large bucket, sponge or washcloth, towels, and chamois cloth to dry boat

• Only brush and scrub boat when wet

• Rinse boat with fresh water

• Lather areas with sponge and soapy water, starting high then gradually moving downward to avoid getting suds on already cleaned areas

• Avoid allowing suds to dry by only cleaning one area at a time

• Use brush to scrub away dirt and grime then rinse

• Use chamois cloth to dry the boat so the water won’t form spots when it dries 

• Wax fiberglass boat’s to protect the shine of its finish.

Interior:

• Vacuum carpets to remove loose dirt

• Use stain removers for any stains found on the carpet

• If possible, steam clean starting from one area and moving back to avoid stepping on cleaned areas before they dry 

Otherwise, clean with a brush and soap still avoiding stepping on cleaned areas Use vinyl cleaners with protectants for upholstery to clean and protect against sun exposure

• Remove mildew stains and use mildew preventative sprays

Hopefully, these tips will help you out next time you clean your boat. Remember, a clean boat is your best boat!

To learn more about boats, boat sales, repairs, services & accessories, please contact Whiticar Boat Works. We have two locations in the Treasure Coast for your convenience:

STUART, FL location:  3636 SE Old St. Lucie Blvd, Stuart, Florida, 34996.

FT. PIERCE, FL location: 2010 Harbor Town Drive,Suite K,               Ft. Pierce, FL 34946

Give us a call at: (772) 287-2883 or email us anytime at: info@whiticar.com

Boating Safety Fundamentals

Boating can be dangerous, no matter how experienced a person is. To help you make sure you are as safe as possible while out on the water, here are some boating safety fundamentals you should consider

Life jackets

Everyone on board should have a life jacket. These flotation devices can save a person’s life from drowning if they go overboard. So, everyone should always wear a life jacket, especially children. Also, make sure that the life jackets fit properly. 

Fire Extinguishers

Keeping fire extinguishers on board is also important. Each boat needs to have at least on B-1 marine fire extinguisher, as required by the Coast Guard. Bigger boats are require to have at least two. Make sure you know how many you need based on the size of your boat.

Flares and distress signals

These are used in the case of a dangerous or potentially dangerous situation to signal for help. However, to be of any use, it is important you know when to use them. Make sure that you know someone may be in the position to see them, whether they are on a boat or plane, or if it will be 

visible from shore.

Alcohol

Everyone knows that you shouldn’t drink and drive. But, drinking and operating a boat is just as dangerous. And, it can lead to the same consequences, from something as trivial as a fine to something as serious as an accident and death. Make sure that no one is operating a boat while intoxicated to avoid these consequences.

Crew Overboard

While on board, everyone should try to keep balanced to make sure you don’t go overboard. However, in the case that someone does go overboard, you should be prepared. Practice an overboard drill to prepare for this situation.

Communications

While out on the water, cell phones can occasionally be used, but they should not be relied on. In the case of an emergency, it is important that all boats have VHF (very high frequency) marine-band radios on board. These are more reliable for communications while out on the water.

Cold Weather

If you are boating in weather that is cool and the water is also cold, then everyone should have clothing that will keep them warm. So, everyone should wear lots of layers. Also, wear life jackets.

            

Hopefully, you will keep these boating safety fundamentals in mind when planning to go out to sea. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry, so be as safe as possible while out boating!

To learn more about boats, boat sales, repairs, services & accessories, please contact Whiticar Boat Works, located at: 3636 SE Old St. Lucie Blvd, Stuart, Florida, 34996. Give us a call at: (772) 287-2883 or email us anytime at: info@whiticar.com

Useful tips for night boating

Any boater could potentially find themselves boating after dark. Night boating can be very dangerous so we want to make sure you’re prepared in this situation. Here are some tips that can help keep you safe while boating at night:

Make sure you always have night boating supplies.

Even if you are not planning on staying out after dark, it is best to have the supplies on hand in case of an unexpected situation. You should have some night vision technology to use. Also, have each person wear a glow stick so, in the case that someone falls in the water, it will be easier to find them.

Try to have as little light as possible.

The darker it is on the boat, the easier it is to see on the water since your eyes will be accustomed to the dark. Even a little light can make your night vision worse because your eyes will naturally adapt to the light. So, make sure you only have necessary sources of light on while night boating.

Do not use the boats docking lights.

These are meant to help while docking, not to light your way at night. While you may be able to see a short distance in front of you, these lights actually put you at a disadvantage because your eyes will get accustomed to them and then not be able to see well past the lights.

Stay away from other boats.

Especially if other boats are using their docking lights, you should stay away from them. Their lights could potentially blind you if they flash straight at you. Also, even if they don’t have lights on, it is best to stay away to make sure there are no collisions.

Don’t look at the stars.

The stars may look beautiful at night, but looking at them while boating is dangerous as it can cause vertigo and sea sickness. That is dangerous in a situation where boating is already difficult because of the darkness. 

Have a lookout focused solely on looking out over the water.

The captain steering the boat has to focus on too much to also focus on what’s out on the water fulltime. So, you should have a separate person posted to keep an eye on the water at all times.

           

Next time you go out to sea, make sure to keep these tips in mind, even if you don’t plan on staying out after dark. After all, it’s better to be prepared in case you unexpectedly find yourself out at night. Always be safe!

To learn more about security & marine electronics, feel free to contact our professional team at Whiticar who will be more than happy to guide you and assist you with all your questions and concerns regarding marine electronics for your boat, yacht or vessel. Visit us at:http://www.whiticar.com/ or contact us anytime at: +1 (772) 287-2883