Section 281.520. Navigable waters livery vessels; first aid kit and emergency procedures list.

Rule 10. (1) The owner of a navigable waters livery vessel shall provide, and have onboard the vessel, at least 1 standard 16-unit first aid kit.

(2)   The owner of a navigable waters livery shall post an emergency procedures list aboard the vessel in a conspicuous location. The list shall set forth, at a minimum, all of the following informational items:

(a)   Radio-telephone distress, including all of the following:

(i)   Switch to channel 16 - coast guard.

(ii)   Give distress signal "MAYDAY" 3 times.

(iii)   Give boat name, type, and color.

(iv)   Give position.

(v)   Describe emergency.

(b)   Man overboard, including all of the following:

(i)   Post a lookout.

(ii)   Throw over a flotation device or the water light.

(iii)   Do not jump into the water unless the person overboard is a small child, elderly, or a person with a disability.

(iv)   Maneuver to return for pickup.

(v)   Use additional markers.

(vi)   Get victim aboard.

(vii)   Call for help if necessary.

(c)   Explosion, including all of the following:

(i)   Be ready to go overboard with personal flotation device (life jacket).

(ii)   When clear of danger, account for all passengers and assist.

(iii)   Stay together.

(d)  Fires, including all of the following:

(i)   If possible, use fire extinguisher.

(ii)   If practical, jettison burning materials.

(iii)   Reduce the air supply.

(iv)   Assemble at opposite end of boat.

(v)   Make preparation to abandon ship, including all of the following:

(A)  Put on life jacket.

(B)  Signal for help by radio or any means available.

(e)   Leaks or damage control, including all of the following:

(i)   Put on life jacket.

(ii)   Check bilge pump operation.

(iii)   Pull up all decks and floor boards in search of leaks.

(iv)   Slow or stop boat as needed. You may need to stay on plane to keep hole above water.

(v)   Stop engine, close sea cock for engine cooling, disconnect hose and place end in bilge. Start engine to act as bilge pump.

(vi)     Cover large hole from outside of boat with mattress or similar device.

(vii)   Use radio to call for help. Channel 16 - coast guard.

History: 1979 AC; 2015 AACS.