Beginner's Guide to Boating tag:beginnersguide.com,2007:/boating//65 2006-10-12T16:33:46Z Boating Movable Type 3.35 Teeny boppers tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/boating//65.30526 2006-07-17T20:29:32Z 2006-07-17T20:34:05Z Teenagers are boating? Oh god no... With the tragic death of a Hendersonville High student on Old Hickory Lake last year as their motivation, some local leaders are looking for ways help prevent other families from experiencing the same... phillip boating.jpg

Teenagers are boating? Oh god no...

With the tragic death of a Hendersonville High student on Old Hickory Lake last year as their motivation, some local leaders are looking for ways help prevent other families from experiencing the same painful loss.

To that end they want to implement a countywide boating education program for the county's school system targeting the teens who could be driving boats on the lake.

Hey, just replace the word "education" with the word "brutally-enforced moratorium" and I'm on board. There I go again with the unintional puns...

]]> Boating Safety tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/boating//65.30630 2006-07-20T16:16:55Z 2006-07-20T16:17:41Z Boating Safety Overview Weather Boater and Alcohol Wakes... phillip boatsafe.jpg

Boating Safety Overview

Weather

Boater and Alcohol

Wakes

]]> Fishing Guides tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/boating//65.30631 2006-07-20T16:19:04Z 2006-07-20T16:19:35Z Fishing Guides Overview What Is a Fishing Guide? Types of Fishing Guides Cost Information... phillip fishguide.jpg

Fishing Guides Overview

What Is a Fishing Guide?

Types of Fishing Guides

Cost Information

]]> Powerboats tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/boating//65.30632 2006-07-20T16:20:36Z 2006-07-20T16:21:09Z Powerboats Overview Buying A Powerboat Top Seven Power boating Questions Powerboat Hull Maintenance... phillip pwoerboat.jpg

Powerboats Overview

Buying A Powerboat

Top Seven Power boating Questions

Powerboat Hull Maintenance

]]> Boat Loans tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/boating//65.30633 2006-07-20T16:22:27Z 2006-07-20T16:23:45Z Boat Loans Overview A Word About Loans New or Used? General Information... phillip boatloan.jpg

Boat Loans Overview

A Word About Loans

New or Used?

General Information

]]> EPIRB (Emergency Position-Indicating Rescue Beacon) Overview tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/boating//65.33027 2006-10-11T14:31:54Z 2006-10-11T14:33:18Z Have you ever gone fishing on a stream and found you've been pulled upstream by the currents and finally settled in an area that had land and your radio was either out of order or out of range? Or perhaps... John Have you ever gone fishing on a stream and found you've been pulled upstream by the currents and finally settled in an area that had land and your radio was either out of order or out of range? Or perhaps the plane you were riding in develops engine trouble or simply runs out of fuel and you end up crashing on the surface of the water? The bad part about it is your radio is out or you are out of range to call for help. Scary thought right. Well not if you had an EPIRB (Emergency Position-Indicating Rescue Beacon) on board that plane or boat. Having an EPIRB can definitely save your life one day. There are three types of beacons that are used to transmit distress signals. These three types include:

• EPIRB: This type is mainly used for maritime use. If you look at EPIRB closely, you would find there are two types. One type transmits one analog signal at 121.5MHz while the other one transmits two different signals: a digital signal at 406 MHz, and a low-power signal at 121.5MHz. This signal is what's used to send a homing signal.
• ELTs: This type is for aviation use. This was the first emergency beacons that were developed and are used in U.S. civil aircraft. ELTs were designed to handle the 121.5 MHz signal so as to alert any aircraft that was flying overhead that help is required immediately.
• PLBs: This type is mainly used for land-based or personal applications. PLBs are portable units that operate like the EPIRBs or even the ELTs. The only difference is that each person would have to carry one instead of just one being on the boat or aircraft.

]]> What is an EPIRB and How Many Types Are There? tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/boating//65.33028 2006-10-11T14:33:21Z 2006-10-11T14:33:49Z An EPIRB (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon) is a tracking transmitter that the Coast Guard uses to help track down people who are stranded at sea in a boat, or are in downed aircraft. The EPIRB is part of the Cospas-Sarsat... John An EPIRB (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon) is a tracking transmitter that the Coast Guard uses to help track down people who are stranded at sea in a boat, or are in downed aircraft. The EPIRB is part of the Cospas-Sarsat Satellite System. The system is used to locate people who may be rescued at sea. EPIRBs are also part of the Global Maritime Distress Safety System.

There are three types of EPIRBs: EPIRBs for maritime emergencies, ELT (Emergency Locator Transmitters) that are used in aircraft, and PLBs (Personal Locator Beacons) that individuals carry.

• EPIRB: EPIRBs are composed of two types: one that transmits an analog signal at 121.5MHz, the other transmits two different signals: a digital signal at 406 MHz, and a low-power signal at 121.5MHz. The low-power signal is what's used to call for help. It is the signal rescuers use to home in on the person needing rescued. The EPIRB is activated when the person releases the bracket that holds the beacon.
• ELTs: The ELTs are carried by U.S. aircraft. ELTs were designed to use 121.5 MHz frequency to alert any aircraft that was flying overhead that help is required immediately. This signal that was released contained the information that the aircraft needed to know the signal's exact location.
• PLBs: These are personal units that are carried by each individual instead of by the aircraft or boat. If someone was traveling somewhere and got either stranded, lost, or hurt, that person would use their PLB to contact help. The homing signal that is released goes to a satellite, where the satellite narrows in on where the person is, and feeds this information to aircraft, letting them know within a 2 to 3 mile radius where the person is located.

]]> How Do EPIRBs Work? tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/boating//65.33029 2006-10-11T14:33:53Z 2006-10-11T14:34:17Z The main purpose for an EPIRB is to provide a signal to someone to let that person or persons know that help is needed, that it is an emergency. Since their implementation in 1970, these radios have saved many lives.... John The main purpose for an EPIRB is to provide a signal to someone to let that person or persons know that help is needed, that it is an emergency. Since their implementation in 1970, these radios have saved many lives. The main users of EPIRBs are people who use boats.

Just what makes up an EPIRB device? There are three different components:

• A 5-watt radio transmitter that operates at a frequency of 406 MHz
• A 0.25-watt radio transmitter that operates at the 121.5 MHz frequency range
• A GPS receiver (global position system)

When someone, who is in trouble, activates the radio, both radios start transmitting. This signal goes 24,000 miles into space where it reaches a GOES weather satellite. This satellite has been programmed to receive signals at 406 MHz. When the satellite receives the signal, it interprets the signal. Within the signal is a code that gives a unique serial number. This code also reveals the exact location of where the radio was transmitting from. The signal is then fed to the Coast Guard, who interprets the signal and checks to see who owns the signal (since all EPIRBs have to be registered). Once the Coast Guard interprets the code received from the satellite, they in turn send rescuers to the location where emergency help is required. They do this by homing in on the signal by tuning into the radio frequency of 406 MHz or 121.5 MHz.

]]> How to Take Care of EPIRBs tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/boating//65.33030 2006-10-11T14:34:20Z 2006-10-11T14:34:44Z If you are left in charge of taking care of EPIRBs, you are giving a heavy task. This is because there are many things you may be required to do in order for EPIRBs to function properly. It isn't a... John If you are left in charge of taking care of EPIRBs, you are giving a heavy task. This is because there are many things you may be required to do in order for EPIRBs to function properly. It isn't a matter of simply hooking one up and that's it. There more things involved. Here are the most required steps in taking care of EPIRBs:

• Testing EPIRBs: Anyone who has a boat or aircraft is admonished by the Coast Guard to test the EPIRBs on a periodic basis to ensure the beacons work. This means examining them for water tightness, battery expiration date, and to see if there is a signal. Most EPIRBs can be tested inside a container so the satellite doesn't receive the signal.
• Battery life: The most important part of the system is the battery. Without that the system would not work. Most systems use a lithium battery. The sure bet is to check for battery life to see what is left. If a low charge is present, perhaps it is time to change the battery. Only use batteries that have been approved by the manufacturer.
• Registration: The one thing should be required of all people who own or use an EPIRB, is registering the unit. If they registered the unit, the Coast Guard would have that number available so they would know that the person owning or using that beacon is in trouble and needs help. The registration sheet is sent to and entered into the U.S. 406 Beacon Registration Database that is maintained by the NOAA/NESDIS. If you unit should become activated, the satellite will relay the signal to the appropriate personnel, at this time your registration information will automatically be sent to the appropriate USCG SAR Rescue Coordination Center, who then responds. This is why registration is so important. Your life may depend on it one day.

]]> Where to Get EPIRBs tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/boating//65.33031 2006-10-11T14:34:47Z 2006-10-11T14:36:01Z If your boat or aircraft does not have an EPIRB, you would do well to get one. There are a number of places to purchase the units. Here are a few such places where you can get your hands on... John If your boat or aircraft does not have an EPIRB, you would do well to get one. There are a number of places to purchase the units. Here are a few such places where you can get your hands on an EPIRB:

• ACR Electronics: ACR Electronics sells the 06 MHz EPIRB system. This is the worlds smallest and has a built-in strobe to be seen in poor visibility. It also has a single, three position switch so you can test the unit for correct operation. It transmits at the newest frequency approved by the COSPAS-SARSAT. And will transmit a homing signal at 121.5 MHz. To learn more about this company and the unit they have pay them a visit at http://www.acrelectronics.com/satellite2/sat2.html/
• Landfall Navigation: Landfall Navigation sells top-of-the-line EPIRB equipment. They sell various types and models that are approved and warranted for emergency rescue use. They will send out a homing signal of 121.5 MHz as required. You can look at all the units they have available at http://www.landfallnavigation.com/epirb.html.
• Beyond Bulbs: This company sells bulbs but they also sell EPIRBs. They have an ACR AquaFix 406 GPS guided EPIRB. It is approved by the FCC and has a PLB registration. Go to http://www.beyondbulbs.com/.
• Pyacht.com: This company sells all kinds of EPIRBs. They have automatic and manual release types. You have to check out what they have to decide what you want. Just click on Safety and pick EPIRBs. Go to http://www.pyacht.net/cgi-local/SoftCart.exe/online-store/scstore/shophome.html?E+scstore.

]]> What is a personal watercraft? tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/boating//65.33202 2006-10-12T16:31:13Z 2006-10-12T16:32:07Z A personal watercraft, also known as a PWC, is a recreational vehicle that operates on the water. The rider either sits or stands on the PWC rather than sitting inside of it such as is done with a boat. The... John A personal watercraft, also known as a PWC, is a recreational vehicle that operates on the water. The rider either sits or stands on the PWC rather than sitting inside of it such as is done with a boat. The stand-up model is quite popular for single riders, while most are fashioned for two to three people with a few models designed for four people. Regardless of the model of PWC, they each have an inboard engine that drives a pump jet. PWCs often go by the names Wave Runner, Jet Ski, or Sea-Doo. These particular brand names are owned by Yamaha, Kawasaki, and Bombardier, in that order. The invention of both the stand-up single riders and the multiple rider PWCs can be credited to Clayton Jacobsen II of Arizona.

PWCs also carry appeal for surfers. They use this watercraft to get out to the waves and then to catch up to the speed of the wave. This is known by surfers as tow-in surfing. Tow-in surfing is a technique discovered in the 1990s by Laird Hamilton, Buzzy Kerbox, Dave Kalama and a few others. This phenomenon occurs when a rider is towed into a breaking wave by either a partner who is driving a personal watercraft or by a helicopter that has an attached tow-line. This process gives the surfer the ability to catch a wave when the wave itself is too big, moving too quickly for the surfer to catch it by simply paddling with their hands, or when the position of the surfer on the wave is essential. PWCs can also serve as a mini boat, towing along water skiers on flat water.

]]> Is a PWC ever used in a non-recreational setting? tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/boating//65.33203 2006-10-12T16:32:08Z 2006-10-12T16:32:33Z Actually, yes, there are numerous non-recreational uses for a personal watercraft. Sometimes a personal watercraft is preferred in place of a small motorboat because they are smaller, faster, more easily handled, quite simple to use, and more affordable. On top... John Actually, yes, there are numerous non-recreational uses for a personal watercraft. Sometimes a personal watercraft is preferred in place of a small motorboat because they are smaller, faster, more easily handled, quite simple to use, and more affordable. On top of that, their propulsion systems do not have external propellers which make them safer for swimmers and wildlife.

Another non-recreational use of PWCs is their ability to help in rescue situations. Lifeguards for non-pool bodies of water use personal watercrafts with rescue platforms to assist people who get into trouble in the water back to shore safely. PWCs have even been used to rescue flood survivors.

Law enforcement has also benefited from the invention of the personal watercraft. Their fast speed and superb agility assist police and rangers in enforcing laws on lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water.

More recently, PWCs have started to be used for coaching rowing. When the PWC is meshed with a wash-reduction system and when the BOSE waterproof tannoy is installed, it becomes an excellent mode of transportation for assistant coaches. When PWCs contain the newest integrated GPS systems, this provides accurate assessments of time and speed for the rowing students.

]]> How do PWCs move in the water? tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/boating//65.33204 2006-10-12T16:32:35Z 2006-10-12T16:32:52Z Personal watercrafts are powered in similar fashion to a rocket. Rather than using high-pressure gas to create a thrust, PWCs use what is called a jet drive that generates a powerful flow of water. Each PWC contains water jets that... John Personal watercrafts are powered in similar fashion to a rocket. Rather than using high-pressure gas to create a thrust, PWCs use what is called a jet drive that generates a powerful flow of water. Each PWC contains water jets that are driven by a screw-shaped impeller. The jets promptly eject huge amounts of water from the under side of the watercraft through the steering nozzle in a backward spray thrusting the watercraft forward. (This is often why a PWC is generically called a jet ski.) This process works to move the PWC because of Isaac Newton's third law of motion which states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. With a PWC, the action occurs as the water is ejected through the nozzle. The watercraft moving forward in the opposite direction of the ejected water is the reaction.

]]> What effect do PWCs have on the environment? tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/boating//65.33205 2006-10-12T16:32:55Z 2006-10-12T16:33:17Z Prior to 1990, there were no regulations in the United States for personal watercraft emissions. Most were powered by a two-stroke cycle engine which may have been smaller and lighter than the four-stroke cycle engines, but the pollution element was... John Prior to 1990, there were no regulations in the United States for personal watercraft emissions. Most were powered by a two-stroke cycle engine which may have been smaller and lighter than the four-stroke cycle engines, but the pollution element was far too great. Lubricated by a "total loss" process which mixes lubricating oil with fuel, the two-stroke engines would express twenty-five percent of their fuel and oil unburned in the form of exhaust. This exhaust was also combined with other products of incomplete and complete combustion.

When the amendments were made in 1990 to the Clean Air Act, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency was given freedom to place stipulations on personal watercrafts as well as other off-road vehicles using internal combustion engines. The Environmental Protection Agency started conversing with the manufacturers of PWCs and other vehicles of the like in 1991 with the resulting stipulations in place by 1996. This presented a challenge to manufacturers to let go of their current pollution causing engines and start selling engines that decrease the pollution factor.

In order to meet the regulations set before them, manufacturers configured an array of improvements to the PWC's engine. PWC engines now have increased use of four-stroke engines, use direct injection for two-strokes, and utilize catalytic converters and other various pollution minimizing measures. These changes have helped decrease the pollution emitted by an estimated seventy-five percent in comparison with engines made prior to the regulations.

In spite of the progress, some environmental groups such as Surfrider Foundation and Bluewater Network believe more improvements can be made to reduce the pollution factor even more in current PWC engines. They are also concerned about the large amount of pre-regulation engines that are still being used and continue to emit large amounts of pollution into the water.

In response to their concerns, the Personal Watercraft Industry Association make note that these environmental groups pay close attention and even cite the pollution levels of the pre-regulation PWCs, without paying attention to the improvements that have been make to the newer models. The PWC Industry believes that personal watercrafts are often blamed for pollution when other powered boats offer the same problem to the environment.

]]> Numerous other questions and answers about Personal Watercrafts... tag:beginnersguide.com,2006:/boating//65.33206 2006-10-12T16:33:19Z 2006-10-12T16:33:46Z *Is there any training required to operate a PWC? Numerous U.S. states are requiring safety training for anyone choosing to operate a personal watercraft. Be sure to look into training for your state. *What happens if you fall off while... John *Is there any training required to operate a PWC?
Numerous U.S. states are requiring safety training for anyone choosing to operate a personal watercraft. Be sure to look into training for your state.

*What happens if you fall off while riding a PWC?
All contemporary PWCs are built with a lanyard that is linked to what is called a dead man's switch. When the lanyard is connected to the operator of the PWC, it immediately turns off the watercraft if the operator falls off. When operating a PWC, be sure to make sure you are connected to the lanyard for optimum safety!

*Where is the best place to use my Personal Watercraft?
The favorite location for PWC operators is Lake Havasu in Arizona. The World Championships for personal watercraft racing is hosted there each October.

*How much horse power can a PWC engine have?
A personal watercraft can contain 215HP (160kW) engines.

*How fast can a PWC go?
Personal watercrafts can reach speeds of 60 miles per hour (113 kilometers per hour).

*How much fuel does it take to fill a PWC?
Personal watercrafts can hold 25 U.S. gallons (95 liters) of fuel.

*What are the most popular brands of PWCs?
The most popular brands of personal watercrafts include the Bombardier Recreational Products Sea-Doo, Arctic Cats Tigershark (currently out of the market), Yamahas Waverunner, and Hondas Aquatrax.

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