We have also added a new (used) boat to our training fleet 2004 Proline center console with 150 Merc. We will be using the boat for close-quarter boat handling. The National Safe Boating Council is sending up an instructor to teach close-quarter boat handling to four of our captains. Shortly afterward we will be offering a course for both LE and recreational boaters.

Got an email about a boat fire. It appears the bilge pump shorted out causing a fire, which hit the fuel line and the rest is history. Poor wiring is the main issue with boat fires. Direct wiring is nuts. You need to have the breakers and inline fuses.

Just think if this would have happened out on the lake.

Are you prepared?

Safety on board your vessel is key to your survival on and off the water.  Accidents can happen at any time. Are you prepared, and more importantly, are those on board prepared if something happened to you?

Even the most seasoned boaters can be put in positions where they may not know what to do or remain calm enough to do it when it actually happens.  Even if you are well prepared for tough situations, are the rest of the people aboard your boat prepared as well? 

It is important that not only you but whoever is on board your vessel knows the most basic of safety and survival techniques.  If you are injured can your crew take over and get back to shore safely? 

Find out more safety tips by taking one of our many courses.  Whether you’re looking for basic safety information or looking to learn regulations and safety procedures, we have the information you need.

Other News

Changes in the Limited Licenses

As of April 2009 the USCG has announced a change in the way limited licenses will be given out.  Limited licenses once used for small sections or certain water ways by many fishing guides, tour boats, and others have now become unavailable, except in certain situations.

The USCG is now only offering the Limited license to camps, marinas and clubs for their employees to take out paying customers.

What does this mean for those looking to get their limited license?  Now that the limited is only being given in certain circumstances, those looking to obtain one should first check with their local US Coast Guard Regional Exam Center.  Fishing guides not tied directly to a camp, resort, or club will not be allowed a Limited license, and will need to work on earning a full OUPV (operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessel) or “6-pack” Captain’s License.

This change will not affect anyone who already has their limited license from renewing or keeping their current license, it will only prohibit new licenses from being given out unless it meets the new requirements.

For more information on the limited licenses, and rules and regulations regarding obtaining one of these licenses go to the National Maritime Centers Website at:  www.uscg.mil/nmc.

Black and White Buoys - What do they mean??
We had an interesting talk with one of the local Department of Natural Resources about the black and white vertical striped buoys. It appears not all states are the same. In Wisconsin it means “center of the channel”, but in Minnesota it means “do not pass between buoy and shore”.
According to the USCG, it is up to the states to implement on their schedule and not all the states have converted to the “do not pass between buoy and shore”. It is important to look at the state regulations, especially when in a different state.

NMC Approval Time - One student told us it took about 12 weeks to get his license. Based on what the NMC is indicating online, this looks about right.
Upcoming Classes - We have an OUPV class in Milwaukee the weeks of September 10th to 13th and 17th to 19th. Please let anyone know who maybe interested.

Outdated Flares - if you have any outdated flares, let us know. We can use them at the upcoming training with area fire departments.
Until next month, Fair Winds and safe boating.
Captain Gary

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