a quick question on rules

[Grumpy]

I sent an email to KYDFW asking about the legality of the handheld airhorn. I will post thier reply when I get it.

Grumpy

[elnutsmalljaws]

I was checked on Barren a couple of years ago and the things that he asked to see were

Life Jackets, enough for everyone in the boat
Floatation Device, I showed him a seat cushion that was legal
Hand held air horn, he said was ok
Whistle
Fire Extinguisher
Paddle
Sort of flagging system, I showed him an orange flag that I carry
Fishing Liscense

This was all he asked to see, I had everything in order, even offered him the registration and insurance but he said he did not need to see that. He said all was ok and sent me on my way. I will say that I have a compass, first aid kit and hook remover kit in the boat as well for safety reasons.

Other safety things to consider:

I have a spare set of clothes, socks, plenty of towels, extra jacket, toboggins, gloves, waterproof matches, space age (aluminum foil material) blanket, several flashlights with extra batteries and even some steel wool in the boat. PS - You can take the steel wool and hold it across the post of a 9 volt battery to have an instant flame for a fire starter. I learned this by watching Man vs Wild, Man Woman Wild or Dual Survival (one of these shows). It is amazing at what you can learn for survival techniques from these people.

[Trophyhunter8]

didn't know about the flagging device

[kydonky]

didn't know about the flagging device

Visual distress signal devices are only required on federally controlled waters.

Federally controlled waters are waters on which vessels must observe federal requirements, including VDS requirements. These waters include:
Coastal waters
The Great Lakes
Territorial seas
Waters which are two miles wide or wider and are directly connected to one of the above.
Cumberland is not directly connected to these waters.

Still not a bad idea to have them on board.

[kydonky]

Yes if the boat is over 16 ft. in length a throwable device is required. Fire extinguishers if any gas or propane in on board. This would include gas or propane in a lantern or stove, not just a gas motor.

Anchor is not required equipment but is a very valuable safety devise. Can save your life if motor fails in a current. Also learn how to use and set an anchor. Setting it incorrectly can sink your boat.

Follow this link for the KDFW safe boating course. If you have time to read these blogs, you probably have time to take this course. I learned a few things when I took it. No charge unless you want state certification.

http://www.boat-ed.com/ky/index.htm

Ok, for all of you that have been wondering just how setting an anchor incorrectly can sink your boat.

Do not tie the anchor off to the stern (rear) of your boat. In fast current tieing off to the stern can pull the stern of the boat under the water and swamp your boat in seconds. The stern of the boat is not designed to push the water under the boat and if the current is strong enough it will pull the stern under.

[ResidentCombo]

I saw this comment in the locked thread:

Remember driving a boat is like driving in england and everything is backwards from a car here so of course people are going to react wrong.. hell I do all the time.

It is not correct! If you imagine a waterway with white lines along the banks, and a yellow line running down the channel, it is exactly like driving a car in the US.