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The Keystone State's Official Boating Magazine

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Thoughts on Combining Joint Legislative Budget and Appropria- Commission spends $18 million on its an- the Fish and Game tions Committee. This study is intended to gling programs. The boating program is determine whether or not there would be funded at an annual figure of $4 million. I Commissions significant savings in revenue or improve- believe that this is grossly under-funding a ment in services with a combined Fish and program that is as large and important as Boating is increasing in popularity and the Game Commission. ours. But without raising registration fees number of registered boats has increased "Wait a minute", you say, "I thought or finding some other means of funding five-fold since 1964. Today, Pennsylvania there was only one Commission now." the program, no additional revenue is ranks 14th in the nation with over 250,000 Many people have the same misconcep- available. registered boats. It has been estimated that tion. The fact is that the Fish Commission It should be apparent that the Boat the number of unpowered boats is about was formed as an independent agency Fund would be far behind hunting and 100,000. Factoring in these boats, our na- more than 125 years ago. The Game Com- fishing activities in priority. Despite sincere tional ranking reaches 8th behind only the mission came along a few years later. efforts of the managers of a combined big boating states of California, Florida, The Fish Commission's original man- agency, boating could take only its propor- Texas, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, date was to restore American shad to its tional share of importance. and Wisconsin. historic range on the Susquehanna River. For the boating program, little could be In recognition of this growth in promi- This goal was expanded over the years and gained from a merger. The programs of nence of boating, the Commission has responsibilities for boating were added at the Fish Commission are different from supported a name change to "The Penn- various times and consolidated with the anything that the Game Commission sylvania Fish and Boat Commission." We enactment of the Boat Law of 1964. does. believe that the inclusion of the word The reasons for including the boating Talk of a merger always assumes that "boat" in our title better reflects the Com- program with the Fish Commission's the participants of the respective sports are mission's duties and responsibilities man- other responsibilities become apparent the same people. It assumes that all boat- dated by law. when its other water-related responsibilities ers are fishermen or hunters. Some boaters However, most of you by now are aware are considered. Its law enforcement offi- may be fishermen and hunters but cer- of a study currently conducted by the cers were already on the water and familiar tainly not all are. More and more, we are with the safe operation of boats. A water finding that boaters are boaters first and resource-oriented education and informa- fishermen second. The boat has become tion staff was already in place. Land ac- the center for family recreation. quisition for access areas had been We all have a variety of recreational conducted for a number of years. And in pursuits, but that does not mean that we the early years of the boating program, the want them regulated by the same agency. majority of boats were used almost exclu- We want our sports regulated by the sively for fishing. agency that can give us the best possible Most of these same reasons support the return on our investment. Since the Com- continued inclusion of the boating pro- mission was given the responsibility for gram under the Fish Commission. boating, the boating community has What could happen to the boating pro- fought for the recognition that it deserves gram if a combined Fish and Game Com- and has received a program that is well- mission became a reality? Of the three respected across the country. The emphasis sports, hunting, angling and boating, of a combined agency would have a dra- boating is the only one that is still grow- matic impact on how the Commonwealth ing. An estimated 2.5 million Pennsylva- resources are managed and allocated for nians participated in boating last year. different uses. Where would boating be? About 1.2 million people bought fishing The study by the joint committee pro- and hunting licenses. This would lead to vides us with the opportunity to express the conclusion that boating is the more our opinions and have a direct impact on John Simmons important of the sports but a look at the the future of the boating program. I am Director combined budgets for fishing, boating and confident that the study results will share Bureau of Boating hunting places the situation in a different my belief that boating belongs with the Pennsylvania Fish Commission perspective. Fish and Boat Commission and not with a The Game Commission has an annual Fish and Game Commission. What do budget of over $35 million. The Fish you think? BOAT Fall 1988 Vol. 5 No. 4 Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Fish Commission Leon Reed Suiting Up for Chilly Water Skiing by Bruce Kistler President In water skiing's bad old days, skiers wore scuba diving suits to extend Honesdale their season. Times have changed 4 David Coe Vice President Let's Get Personal by John Chadwell State College If you plan to buy a personal watercraft or if you'd like just to know Marilyn A. Black what's currently available, this information can help 6 Cochranton Leonard A. Green KIDS PAGE! by Cheryl Kimerline Carlisle Fall boating fun, boating rhymes and some boating words highlight this Ross J. Huhn installment 11 Saltsburg Calvin J. Kern Collapsible Boats by Richard Lebovitz Whitehall If you're curious about inflatable boats, folding boats and sectional boats, T T. Metzger, Jr. cave in to your desires and check them out here 12 Johnstown Joan R. Plumly Docking Under Sail by Bob Ricketts Jenkintown While docking your boat under sail, you probably discovered abruptly that William J. Sabatose a sailboat has no reverse gear. No problem if you apply this information 14 Brockport J. Wayne Yorks Equipment Storage in Winter by Stephen Knox Benton This topic saddens diehard boaters, but if you take care of your gear now, it'll be in tip-top shape and ready to go next season 16 Boating Advisory Board Thaddeus Piotrowski Preventing Outboard Motor Trouble by Virgil Chambers Chairman Tuning your engine now, or letting the dealer do the job, can keep you out Bloomsburg of trouble 19 Clayton Buchanan Pittsburgh Turns by Cliff Jacobson Helen B. Lange After you read this, you could rotate, spin, curve, revolve, flip, transpose Sharpsvil and zigzag 20 Judy Obert Greentown Getting Victims out of the Water by Virgil Chambers Solve the problem of getting someone who might be hurt aboard your Staff boat 26 Editor—Art Michaels Intern—Sherri Akens Water-n-Kids by Cheryl Kimerline Art Director—Ted Walke The Boating Safety and Education Division of the Bureau of Boating is Intern—Jennifer Bennett busy teaching kids the basics 28 Circulation—Eleanor Mutch Staff Assistant—Rose Ann Banal Staff Assistant—Charlene Glisan

Boot Ponosylvania (ISSN0£188.1$61) 6 published Quarterly by the Penn. The covers Sytvailta Fish Commission. 3532 Walnut Street, Harrisburg, PA 17109 1988 Nothing in this magazine may be reprinted without the written per• This issue's covers shows world-class personal watercraft operators negotiating rnission 01 the Pennsylvania Fish Commission Subscnpuon rates one year. S4 single copes are SI 50 each Second class postage* pad at Harnsburg. the race course during an event on the Susquehanna River at Harrisburg, PA POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Boat PennsyNanta °rap held July Won.Pennsylvania Fish Commission.P0 Box 1673. Harrisburg. PA 17105. 2-3. The race is part of the International Jet Ski Boating 1673 For subscription and change ot address, use above address Please Association tour. Chris Lauber took the photograph. If you're thinking Wow Thar months tof procassng new subsenpoons.renewals and changes of daddress Send all other correspondence to The Editor. Boat Pennsylvania. buying a personal watercraft, be sure to check out the article that begins on P0 Box 1673. Harrisburg. PA 17105.1673 Eddonal QueneS and contnbu. tons are welcomed. but must be accornparved by sed.addressed. stamped page 6. Runabout owners can find some useful information in the article envelopes Matenal accepted or publicahon rs subject to Pennsyhrana Fish Commisson standards and requirements tor editing and reNnsing Subma. starting on page 16, and sailors can find some heads-up docking ideas on sans are handled with care, but the publisher assumes no resportsaboty or the returner safety 01SubmiSSIOns at los paSSOSstOn Or in transit The anthers' page 14. Paddlers can take their turns with the feature beginning on page 20. crews. geaS and admen expresso:I tn thiS rnaqUine 00 not nOCOSSartly 'o- rient the opm,k or othoal pOSiten 01 Use Pennsytvarsa Fish CorturreSSiOn or its start Suiting Up for Chilly by Bruce Kistler It happens twice each year, once in the spring and once in the fall: The frustrat- ing times that are either a little too early or a little too late in the season to enjoy water skiing because the water's too cold. There you are with everything you need—boat, skis, smooth water, warm sun—but you know that when you hit that icewater you'll wish you'd stayed on shore. Take heart, shivering water skier. For a modest investment in a full wetsuit or drysuit you can extend your skiing season at least a month in either direction. A wetsuit is a suit of thin( 1/16-inch to 3/16-inch)foam neoprene rubber. The neoprene becomes saturated with water that your body heats, providing excellent insulation. Even with a wetsuit, that first plunge into cold water can be an eye- opener, but in just a few moments you will begin to feel quite comfortable. The suits are so effective that you may actually get a little too warm if you are skiing hard.

Old days In the bad old days skiers wore scuba diver wetsuits. They were warm, but they were also bulky, heavy, a pain to put on, a bigger pain to take off and not too durable. A rite of spring for many skiers in- Advantages Besides warmth, wetsuits offer impact cluded wild gyrations when donning or A wetsuit offers advantages besides protection and flotation greater than that doffmg the stubborn "monkey suits" and warmth. It also provides great impact pro- which a ski vest provides. patching rips and tears with sticky black tection and flotation over and beyond neoprene glue. what a ski vest provides. Consequently, the back, chest, and rump. These suits Eventually, wetsuit manufacturers real- there are several kinds of wetsuits for dif- missing a large poten- also have adjustable nylon web straps on ized that they were ferent purposes. A full wetsuit, with long and the legs to prevent water from being forced tial market. They began designing arms and legs, is best for water skiing dur- for water skiing. into the suit during barefoot deepwater making suits specifically ing the off-season. A full suit can consist suits that starts and other maneuvers. Most now Better rubber was used to make pants and a jacket, a "farmer john" of have short legs and are either sleeveless or were thinner and more flexible yet just as and a jacket, or it can be all one tunic have short arms. Some styles have nylon warm as older models. Better zippers and piece. sleeves without neoprene for greater flexi- better zipper placement helped in dressing A shorty wetsuit, one with short arms the suits with bility. and undressing. They lined and legs, is good for chilly days, but many out, which Barefoot suits have such superior flota- nylon or Lycra inside and skiers wear one no matter what the tem- eas- tion and impact protection that a separate made them much stronger and much perature. Some shorties have zippered off. life vest isn't necessary. As of yet, however, ier to put on and take fronts and some sleeveless styles have also let manufacturers offer no barefoot wetsuits are Coast Guard ap- The nylon snaps or Velcro closures at the shoulder. the suits in a da77ling variety of colors like proved. hot pink, bright turquoise and fluorescent Pennsylvania was one of the first states yellow. Now you don't have to look like a Barefooting to work with barefooters and write a spe- Navy frogman when you wear a wetsuit. Barefooting enthusiasts helped bring the cial exemption into its PFD regulations to Today's suits are as much fashion state- art of wetsuit design to its zenith. A bare- allow them to wear these suits for bare- ments as they are practical pieces of skiing foot wetsuit incorporates extra-thick neo- footing at their own risk in lieu of a Coast .3 equipment. prene or closed-cell Ensolite padding on Guard approved PFD. a

4 Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania Water Skiing Suiting up Most nylon-lined wetsuits are fairly easy to put on and take off, although it is more difficult if the suit is wet. When putting on a full suit, gather the pant leg or sleeve and work it on a bit at a time. If it doesn't slide on easily, don't try to pull it on as you would a cloth garment. You will only succeed in having the suit squeeze you harder, like Chinese handcuffs. Reverse the process to take the suit off. Turn the sleeve or pant leg inside-out or push the folds down your legs or arms. Don't try to pull it off by the cuff.

Dry suits For extremely cold water, or for those who do not like the clammy feel of a wetsuit, there is another alternative—a drysuit. Made of impervious rubberized fabric or closed-cell foam, a drysuit keeps you dry as well as warm. Tight latex rubber seals at the neck, wrists, and ankles prevent water from entering. Some models also have Velcro closures on the wrists and ankles to protect further against water getting into the suit. A drysuit has a super-heavy-duty waterproof zipper across the back, making dressing a two-person job. The seals can be difficult to get into and you may need some talc to help make entry easier. One advantage of a drysuit is that you can change the amount of insulation by wearing more or less clothing under the suit. Skiers often wear sweat clothes with drysuits. Wetsuits with long arms and legs are Buying With either type of suit, cold hands and bestfor off-season water skiing. Wetsuits When shopping for a water skiing wet- feet can be a problem. Although wetsuit with short arms and legs are practical on suit, make sure that you look at suits gloves and booties are available, many ski- chilly days. made specifically for the sport. A diver's ers do not use them. The gloves are bulky suit will not have the design features you and booties can make getting into tight ski will come to appreciate in a water ski suit. binders difficult. Rubber kitchen gloves As with other goods, the price generally are flexible and can provide some limited indicates the quality. The standard-grade insulation for frozen fingers. Because Slalom, jumping suits may have nylon on the inside only. much of your body heat is lost through Taking a cue from barefoot suits, the The better suits are lined with nylon on your head, a wetsuit hood can be a good manufacturers also began to make wetsuits both the inside and outside and are gener- investment if you plan to ski in cold water. with integral vests for competition slalom ally worth the extra money. Look for rein- Modern wetsuits and drysuits can help and jumping. A full-length jumpsuit is forced seams and edges and heavy-duty you extend your skiing season, but be now the standard uniform of the top tour- zippers. careful. Cold water always demands re- nament jumpers. Although many of these Rememberthat a wetsuit must fit well spect. Ski only as long as you feel com- are certified for competition use, they also to keep you warm. An oversized suit will fortable to avoid the consequences of are not Coast Guard approved. allow too much water in. Your body will hypothermia. With the right equipment The Fish Commission allows the use of not be able to heat the excess water, which you can start earlier in the spring and keep these special suits by skiers slaloming in a will also add a considerable amount of ex- skiing later in the fall. You may even get in marked course, jumping, or trick skiing. tra weight when you take off. Both men's the habit of wearing a shorty or a specialty Those opting to wear jump or slalom suits and women's styles are available to give a wetsuit during the summer. do so at their own risk. more precise fit. • Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 5 - --• by John Chadwell.---

6 Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania -

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five years ago, if you wanted to see a personal Oni watercraft, better known as a Jet Ski (among others), you almost had to travel to California. Oh,every once in a while, some enthusiasts would search out a dealer of the new machines and cart one all the way back home. He'd take it out on Conowingo or Raystown Lake, or cruise the Susquehanna, where everyone would wonder at the new contraption. They're small, fast, and to some folks, very difficult to use. So why would anyone want to risk life and limb, not to mention tremendous amounts of ego, to straddle one of these miniature jet-powered water-rockets? Because, next to water skiing with a jet engine strapped to your back, there probably isn't a higher water- borne rush available. And it all started with a dirt bike racer who was fed up with eating dirt and shedding various pieces of his anatomy in the arroyos and dunes of southern California. Back around 1%8, an engineer by the name of Clay Jacobson, who liked to race his motorcycle in the desert, sat down near a drainage canal to cool off and pick gravel out of his latest wounds. He began to think that there must be a less painful way to have fun racing. That's when he came up with the proverbial "better idea." A Japanese company famous for its fluorescent-green racing motorcycles agreed. It bought the patent rights for a machine that would revolutionize America's concept of fun on the water. Today, that machine, which at first was only a sideline for motorcycle shops, has increased in sales by 225 percent in just the last year. Now dominating 80 percent of the market, the company and the machine have become synonymous not only with a way of life, but with one of the fastest growing water sports around the world. The company is Kawasaki; the machine is the Jet Ski. Introduced in 1974, the Jet Ski was virtually the only watercraft of its kind for more than a dozen years. It's basically a highly maneuverable self-propelled craft that can be ridden just about anywhere a boat can—and a lot of places a boater wouldn't dream of venturing. Even Kawasaki is surprised at the popularity of the Jet Ski. Considering the nature of free enterprise, it didn't take long for dozens of rivals to hop aboard the burgeoning personal watercraft market. Every day it seems there's a new product for the water-crazed public. What with the high price tags for pleasure boats, individual watercrafting is more popular than ever. These machines range from Kawasaki's Jet Ski and Yamaha's WaveRunner that can streak across the water at better than 40 mph, to the Toobee, which can best be described as a high-tech innertube. The popularity of Jet Ski, in particular, and to some extent, other muscle machines in the top end of the market, can be wit- nessed in the increasing number of racing circuits developing worldwide. Fame that was once reserved for the dirt tracks and speedways is now heaped on young men and women who have become the "Top Guns" of the Jet Ski race circuit. The circuit begins in California and meanders across the country with one race in Harrisburg, July 3-4, and four races in Florida. Then it dips down into Texas, and the World Championships are held at Lake Havasu City, Arizona.

Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 7 Most of these craft are powerful machines that require care in handling and an understanding of the unique measures needed to ride them

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Five years ago, there were only a hand- petition on the race courses and prize ful of dedicated racers that even bothered monies go higher, we'll hopefully see to tour the entire circuit, much less venture prices for the machines in the market place out into the desert to compete against begin to decline. racers still in their teens kr trophies and a Most of us will never venture onto a few hundred dollars. At last year's cham- race course, so jet skis and their ilk are not pionship race, there were more than 500 the only choice of water-oriented activity. competitors running the course for more Somewhere between the Jet Ski and the than $25,000 in prize money. Some 20,000 Toobee there is a multitude of craft to spectators lined the shore to see 16-year- meet any Pennsylvania recreationist's old Jeff Jacobs, from La Jolla, California, need. The following is a guide to personal- take the title. ized watercraft marketed around the country and one, the Sea-doo, from Canada. Unchallenged marketplace Because of its firm grip on most of the Kawasaki patents, Kawasaki has gone unchallenged Built in Lincoln, Nebraska, there are on race courses and in the marketplace. presently six models of Jet Ski watercraft. But Jacobson recently sold the remaining Five single-person craft ranging in engine portion of the patents of the jet ski con- size from 300cc to 650cc, and a two- cept to Yamaha for a reported $1 million. person model with a 650cc engine. All are As these and other patents run out in built of a special fiberglass compound, 1991, Kawasaki's hold on the Jet Ski-style making them both lightweight and strong. There is a multitude watercraft will be copied by a number of Propelled by a water-cooled, two-stroke of craft to meet any companies. Insiders report that Yamaha engine located in the front, the craft is will have a machine very similar to the Jet driven by an impeller turning a stainless Pennsylvania Ski on the market by next year. steel housing in the hull. Steering is con- This will benefit racing competitors and trolled by a handlebar that turns a direc- recreationist's need. consumers alike. When we start seeing tional nozzle located behind the impeller. Yamahas and Kawasakis running in com- If the rider should fall, the boat is de-

8 Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania signed to return to idle and turn slowly in design and has an exhaust outlet port in that it crossed over from the motorcycle circles. The rider can simply wait for the the rear to assist in noise reduction. Its industry. Invented by Nelson Tyler in 1972, craft to come back to him, climb aboard suggested retail price is $3,999. the first machines were powered by 40 and take off again. horsepower Mercury outboard motors and For the dealer nearest you, call locally had props. Tyler's concept has been liber- either: 412-238-4854 or 717-367-8936. If Yamaha ally copied by most of today's two-rider you want to write to Kawasaki, the address In 1987, Yamaha Motor Corporation, watercraft. is 9950 Jeronimo Road, Irvine, California U.S.A., came out with two water vehicles Today's Hydrofoil Wetbike is jet- 92718-2016. in an attempt to appeal to a broad con- powered and like a true hydrofoil rides • JS300. This is the lowest-priced model. sumer market: the WaveRunner and the high above partially submerged fms or Powered by a 294cc aluminum engine, it WaveJanuner. Both were designed around wings. They are powered by a 798cc en- puts out 30 horsepower. Unlike earlier the snowmobile concept and with 20 gine that puts out 550 pounds of thrust. models, the JS300 offers a Superlube oil horsepower, water-cooled engines can The machines are constructed of a sturdy, injection system, which eliminates oil/fuel reach speeds up to 35 mph. They are jet- lightweight material called Metton. premix, and has an oil tank capacity good powered and designed to be handled by You maneuver the Wetbikes much as for up to four tanks of gas. Other features adults and children. Both were designed to you would a street motorcycle, leaning in- include electric start, fully padded rider be stable enough to mount while the ma- side the turn. Should you fall off the craft, tray and handlepole, handlebar-mounted chines are motionless. For more informa- it is self-righting. Presently, there are two start/stop switches and padded lift grips tion on the WaveJammer or WaveRunner, models to choose from: the original Silver front and rear. These features are similar contact your local dealer or the Yamaha Streak and the newer, sporty Tom Cat. on all single-rider Jet Skis. The suggested Motor Corporation, U.S.A., Marine Divi- The two machines are similar except for retail price is $2,499. sion, P.O. Box 6555, Cypress, CA 90630. three changes in the Tom Cat. Visions of • JS300 SX. This version sports a new The phone number is 714-761-7609. Tom Cruise and Top Gun come to play in hull design that is six inches shorter and • VVaveRunner. This machine is designed the designing of this latest wetbike. It has two pounds lighter than other single- to accommodate one or two riders. With an improved water scoop, which improves person craft. It is also two inches wider for one rider it can tow a skier (illegal in Penn- the performance by increasing the flow of easier boarding. The engine exhaust outlet sylvania), serve as a tender for large boats, water into the jet drive. A newly designed is located at the rear of the craft for an and is ideal for fishing or snorkeling. It is inlet fairing also adds to the performance. overall reduction in noise levels. The sug- easy to handle when cruising at high speed And the custom paint job and graphics gested retail price is $2,849. in choppy water, riding slowly past docks, add to that high-performance look. For • JS440. Though similar to the original or even when pulling a skier. Riders can information, contact UltraNautics Corpo- Jet Ski watercraft, this model is designed travel a minimum of 50 miles on one tank ration Sales Department, 620 West with the first-time owner in mind. It has a of regular gas, with the reserve tank acces- Hueneme Road, Oxnard, CA 93033. The 436cc water-cooled engine that develops sible by means of a manual switch. A wa- phone number is 805-986-4812. The sug- 243 pounds of thrust. The suggested retail ter visibility spout sprays a stream of water gested retail prices are $3,995 for the Silver price is $2,999. from the back to make the vehicle more Streak and $4,339 for the Tom Cat. • JS550. The JS550 is the most popular visible to other boaters. There are two sep- and well-known craft in the Jet Ski line. A arate storage areas: one under the seat can WetJet International, LTD single-person craft, the water-cooled 530cc be used as a self-draining ice chest or to This Paynesville, Minnesota, company engine has a low-restriction exhaust system store personal items or fishing gear; the has produced the WetJet for the last four and a flush-mounted exhaust. The sug- other is a rear porthole compartment that years. What makes this personal watercraft gested retail price is $3,699. can store a fire extinguisher or other small different is its tri-hull design that causes • X-2. The X-2 is designed for two riders. items. The suggested retail price is $3,905. the craft to plane, creating a 9-inch wide In place of a padded tray it has a long • VVaveJammer. Built for the hotdogger "rail" that runs from the bow to the back padded bench with room enough for two who wants to try his hand at freestyle rid- of the boat. This, according to the com- persons to sit along with foot trays on ei- ing, even novice riders can easily steer pany, gives the boat a great amount of sta- ther side. The X-2 also features trim ad- from either a sitting or standing position. bility and turning ability even at relatively justment. This machine is excellent for an With a somewhat smaller tank than the low speeds. With a 428cc water-cooled en- outing with a friend and also has the WaveRunner, this machine has a minimum gine and 340 pounds of thrust, this jet- horsepower and quick moves for the range of 34 miles. Another feature is a powered craft can top out at 37 mph. would-be racer. In fact, last year a new vacuum-driven automatic bilge pump, The WetJet should be registered as an 8- class was created on the race circuit to ac- which automatically discharges any water foot inboard. This puts it in a standard commodate the X-2. The suggested retail taken into the engine compartment with- marine classification for insurance pur- price is $3,799. out the use of an electric motor. The sug- poses and should result in a much lower • JS650 SX. This Jet Ski is by far the gested retail price is $3,380. rate than some other personal watercraft. most powerful single-person craft Kawa- For the dealer nearest you and for other saki offers. Using the 635cc engine from UltraNautics Corporation information, write to WetJet Watercraft, the X-2 along with a new hull design, it This is the new name for Wetco Indus- 108 Mill Street East, Paynesville, Minne- has 25 percent more power than the JS550 tries, based in California and the manu- sota 56362-1705. The phone number is and weighs 30 more pounds. The hull is facturer of the Hydrofoil Wetbike. The 612-243-3311. The suggested retail price is wider and more compact than the original craft's origins are similar to the Jet Ski in $3,795. Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 9 Shopping around of thrust. At 42.5 inches wide and 95 You can choose your style and your col- inches in length, the Fazer handles excel- ors, but all Toobies come in just one size. and matching the lently in a straight line. However, the 25- They weigh only 110 pounds; when in- inch profile and front-heavy design can flated they are 7.5 feet long with a 5.5-foot features of personal cause nose plowing in turns. But with a bit beam. The Toobies can accommodate two watercraft to your of body english and a light touch on the people comfortably. handlebar, the nose will stay up and the With a hull within a hull, they are de- needs is the way to craft planes easily enough. The suggested signed with safety in mind. The foam- retail price is $3,695. For more informa- injected hull is a safety feature offered in get the most for tion, contact Werks Marine, Inc., at 904- high-performance boats, and its innertube your money. 641-7167. There's also a toll free number: provides a stability that makes the craft al- 800-458-1904. most impossible to capsize. For more information, contact Water Ventures, 18141 Bombardier Beach Blvd., Suite 370 Huntingdon Beach, CA 92648. The phone number is Progressive Power Corporation Even before Kawasaki and the Jet Ski, 714-848-1686. From Janesville, Wisconsin, comes one there was Bombardier and the Sea-Doo. of the most unusual personal watercraft, Unlike Kawasaki, Bombardier decided the Surf-Jet. Far from the crashing waves back in 1969 to drop the "water scooter" Aquapro of either coastline, this company has come product and concentrate on its Ski-Doo This Missouri-based company manu- up with an idea that once would have been snowmobiles and Can-Am motorcycles. facturers the FASTRAC, a boat that has possible to pull off only in southern Cali- Now, with the ever-increasing personal wa- features not found on other personal wa- fornia. It's a surfboard, and you don't tercraft market, they have re-released the tercraft. To name just one: it has a reverse even need to find the perfect curling Sea-Doo. The Sea-Doo's graceful lines gear. This could be handy if you're inter- wave—which might be hard to do on Lake and power come from the combined tech- ested in fishing, which is possible due to Erie, but downright impossible on the Al- nologies of two countries. The craft is the boat's stability. Fastrac comes in two legheny. With its own jet pump, any river powered by an Austrian Rotax engine that standard models: the 500 and 600 series. or lake will do. Just hop aboard, hold was developed by the Canadian Bombar- The deluxe models are the 502 and 602, onto the tethered handle and let her rip. dier Company. Within the sleek fiberglass which have additional instrumentation. There are three motor-driven, jet- hull beats the heart of a powerful 580cc, For personal watercraft, the Fastrac is propelled versions of the Surf-Jet: the twin-cylinder powerhouse. Jet-powered, huge. At over 91/2 feet long, it weighs in at Malibu, which retails at $1,995; the Free- the Sea-Doo is designed to right itself if a hefty 375 pounds, and has a 60 horse- style at $2,295, and the Pacifica for turned over. The company hopes that it power AMW power plant. The flat- $2,395. All are powered by a 15 hp, 2- will appeal to those who demand high- bottomed hull tends to make the Fastrac cycle, 2-cylinder marine engine, which performance and to the leisure-craft types spin easily in sharp turns. This isn't neces- pumps out 130 pounds of thrust for a wild as well. The Sea-Doo can carry two sarily bad; in fact, it can be lots of fun. It ride at 30 miles an hour. You control the aboard. can be controlled with a little weight shift speed with a hand-held hydraulic throttle. The suggested retail price is $4,199 US, and less handlebar pressure, though. Un- If the rider should fall off, a safety-tether $6,800 Canadian. For information, con- der the long seat there is room to store an kill switch automatically shuts off the mo- tact the Bombardier Marine Products Di- ice chest and other gear. tor. vision, 701 Meloche Avenue, Dorval, For additional information and to find If you have never surfed, this machine Quebec Canada, H9P-2S4. The phone the dealer near you, contact: Aquapro In- can be a challenge. The maneuvers are number is 514-636-5994. corporated, P.O. Box 947, Springfield, basically the same, but you don't have to MO 65803. The phone number is 417-862- travel to the coast in search of a wave. The 9322. boards are only 30 inches wide and weigh Water Ventures Remember, whatever personal water- When only 120-130 pounds. For more informa- getting some place in a hurry craft you decide on, Pennsylvania's boat- isn't important, tion about the dealer nearest you, call 608- when flash and flare are ing rules apply to them, as well. There has 752-7873. passe', when "cute" is okay, then the been controversy in many states over the Toobie is what you're looking for. It re- riding habits of personal watercraft enthu- sembles a backyard plastic pool, but it gets siasts. New Hampshire has already banned Fazer Marine under way. The Toobie was designed for the craft from all but four lakes, due Out of Jacksonville, Florida, comes the the inexperienced boater in mind, but any- mainly to the riders' disregard for others Fazer, a craft that looks like something one can have fun with this colorful little who were trying to enjoy the same areas. Miami Vice's Sonny Crockett or Buck craft. It comes in three designs. There's a Most of these craft are powerful machines Rogers would ride. Sleek-hulled, double- Glass Bottom Toobie. The bottom is built that require care in handling and an un- sponsoned, the futuristic-looking boat will of scratch-resistant Tuffak. Then there's derstanding of the unique measures be a hit with both water sport and ATV the SportBoat Toobie, which allows great needed to ride them safely. At 35 to 40 fans. The hand-laminated fiberglass hull is maneuverability with its steering wheel miles per hour, riding a 300-pound jet- designed for strength. With a draft of only mechanism. And for the completely fun- powered machine can be compared to 4 inches, a rider can get under way in only oriented individual, there's the Jacozy turning loose a guided missile—it's only as one inch of water. The 430cc liquid-cooled Toobie, a portable boat that is outfitted smart as the brain engine puts out a respectable 340 pounds with two built-in water jets and a heater! operating it. 10 Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania MDS PAGE! by Cheryl Kimerline Which Way? Fill in the blanks in the following sentences. Choose the answers from this list of words: stem left (port) midship bow right (starboard) 1. The person is sitting nearest the 2. The dog is sitting 3. The anchor is nearest the 4. The picnic basket is on the side. 5. The dog is facing the side.

Fall Boating Directions Fall is a beautiful time to go boating. The waterways are almost deserted. The leaves are changing colors on a Boatrariv and waterways can be very peaceful. Here are a few Away from shore, a boat is the reference for all safety tips to remember: directions. Otherwise, crew members would need a 1. The water temperature is very cold, so dress compass to know where the captain ordered them to warmly and in layers. go. The front of the boat is called the bow. The back 2. Wear your personal flotation device. of the boat is called the stern. All other directions are 3. Know the water you are going to boat. The water found by facing the boat bow. level might be low so watch for obstructions such The starboard side of the boat is the right side as as rocks and logs. you face forward. "Go forward" means walk toward 4. Make sure your boat is not overloaded or the bow. "Go aft" means walk toward the stern. The overpowered. beam is the widest part of the boat. The boat near 5. Check the weather forecast. the beam is called amidships. 6. Let someone know where you are going and when you will return. Answers: Which Way? 1. stern 4. starboard 2. midship 5. port 3. bow

Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 11 Collapsible Boats Space-Saving Craft for Space-Conscious Boaters by Richard Labovitz For small-car and RV owners who are unable to trailer a boat, 42"x 24" x 12" deflated. apartment dwellers who don't have the space to store one, or If it's impossible or unsafe for you to store a small outboard big-boat owners who want a second boat for getting to out-of- and fuel tank, an inflatable kayak or sailboat is worth a look the-way places, a collapsible boat could be the key to a whole instead. Inflatable kayaks are the stock in trade of many new boating experience. These boats deflate, fold or come apart, outfitters, and they have been successfully used in a wide variety assuming a size and shape that makes them conveniently of conditions, from flatwater to Class IV whitewater to big-water stowable in a minimum amount of space. They are not playtoys touring. either, but full-fledged craft that offer the same range of boating activities as their trailerable counterparts—fishing, cruising, Folding boats wildlife watching, photography, water skiing, diving, camping, The most common folding boats are the folding kayaks made gunkholing, or just messing around. by Feathercraft, Folbot, Klepper, and Nautiraid. Johann Klepper, a German tailor, introduced the first one in 1907. They consist Inflatables of a collapsible wood or metal frame and fabric skin that can be Though inflatable boats enjoy wide popularity in Europe, stored in a couple of bags and assembled in about 20 minutes. where Zodiac first introduced them 50 years ago, many people Kayaks are one- or two-person craft that can carry hundreds in this country have yet to discover these versatile craft. In of pounds of gear in addition to their passenger load. Though contrast to the leaky drugstore inflatables many of us grew up they look tippy, a kayak with the paddler seated is a very stable, with, modern inflatables are made of durable, coated fabrics seaworthy and maneuverable craft. They have proved themselves that are glued or electronically welded to make an airtight seam. in transatlantic passages and in use by the military. Specially designed valves and multiple air chambers ensure that The Sea Scamp dinghy, Otter Craft kayak, and Porta-Bote the air stays in. With a double-action foot pump, you can look like conventional boats when assembled, but their inflate one of these boats in less than 20 minutes. leakproof hinged joints allow them to fold into a narrow, flat For an all-arounder, a vee-bottom inflatable sportboat is hard package only a few inches thick. They have fewer parts than the to beat. These boats have a transom for mounting an outboard skin and frame boats and take only a minute or so to assemble. and a rigid floor to stand on. With their buoyancy located These multi-purpose boats can be powered with a small around the perimeter, they provide a stable platform with outboard engine, rowed or sailed. tremendous load capacity for their size. These lightweight boats are quick to plane and accelerate Sectional boats rapidly with little horsepower. Their weight works as a A sectional boat is basically a whole boat cut into sections disadvantage only in rough water or on windy days, when and reassembled so there are no leaks. After World War II, they're apt to get blown around a bit. A typical 10-foot Edwin A. Link, inventor of the Link Flight Trainer, introduced sportboat weighs about 100 pounds and becomes a compact a line of sectional boats that were sheathed in canvas to make

Inflatable boats have specific advantages for use in Pennsylvania waters. You can launch them in spots where you wouldn't launch a trailered boat, and you can take them where you could run aground or hit underwater obstables in a semivee. They are surprisingly stable, too.

12 Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania them watertight. Today, most builders install a permanent bulkhead at the "open" end of each section and connect them with some type of sturdy locking mechanism. The "take-a-part" sea kayaks from Easy Rider divide into three or more sections that can be stowed in duffle bags and carried like luggage. These fiberglass or Kevlar cousins of the Eskimo sealskin kayaks are fast, seaworthy craft capable of handling a wide variety of water conditions. In contrast, the fiberglass StowAway and polypropylene Poly Tote Boat, which can hold 2-3 people, fold in half like a clamshell, creating a storage unit for gear or luggage. Another type is the Nest*Egg, an 11-foot fiberglass dinghy whose nested halves fit into most vans and pickups. The similar Shearwater 10/4 divides into four sections, creating an even smaller nest. Inree sails make these two multi-purpose boats capable sailing craft. Rowing enthusiasts will like the Cape Horn Appledore, which can be equipped with a fixed or sliding seat. Adventurer Charlie Porter is presently using the versatile Appledore to explore the tip of South America. Its two sections, measuring less than 9- feet nested, can be used by the kids as diminutive, transom- sterned dinghies. Prices for collapsible boats range from under $1,000 to over $3,000, depending on the model and number of options. All have their advantages and disadvantages. But if you contact the manufacturers for information and draw up a list of important Above, a wooden Sea Scamp folding dinghy. features, you'll find just the right boat for your needs. 11

Richard Lebovitz is managing editor of Small Boat Journal, a recreational boating magazine located in Bennington, Vermont. Buyer's Information Britannia Boats Ltd. (Sea Scamp), PO Box 5033, Annapolis, MD 21403,(301) 269-6617. Davard Marine Corp. (Shearwater), 21460 Encina Road, Topanga, CA 90290,(213) 455-3109. Easy Rider Canoe & Kayak Co., PO Box 88108, Seattle, WA 98188,(206) 228-3633. Ecomarine Ocean Kayak Centre (Nautiraid), 1668 Duranleau Street, Vancouver, B.C., Canada V6H 3S4,(604) 689-7575. Above, an inflatable kayak: surprisingly stable. Feathercraft Products Ltd., 1334 Cartwright, Vancouver, B.C., Canada V6H 3R8,(604) 681-8437. Folbot, Inc., PO Box 70877, Stark Industrial Park, Charleston, SC 29415,(803) 744-3483. Inflatable Boat Association of America, do NMMA, 353 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10016, (212) 684-6622. Klepper America, 34 Union Square West, New York, NY 10003,(212) 243-3428. Martin Marine Co., Inc. (Cape Horn Appledore), Box 251, Goodwin Road, Kittery Point, ME 03905,(207) 439-1507. Starwing (Nest*Egg), PO Box 137, Bristol, RI 02809,(401) 254-0670. Otter Craft, Inc., PO Box 1083, Grants Pass, OR 97526,(503) 479-3786. Poly Tote Boat, 4401 East Hearn Road, Phoenix, AZ 85032, (602) 265-2436. Porta-Bote International, 1074 Independence Avenue, Mountain View, CA 94043,(415) 961-5334. StowAway Inc., PO Box 15419, Surfside Beach, SC 29587, Above, a versatile inflatable sportboat. (800) 826-9323.

Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 13 All good sailing days must come to an end, and "the end" is the return sail to the marina and docking your sailboat. Dock- ing a sailboat is not an easy task. It's one \ Docking maneuver that must be done with caution. The famous "Captain Murphy" (as in Murphy's Law) is always lurking to make the docking maneuvers as difficult as possible. Consider how to plan and dock the sailboat under sail. \ Under One of the most important aspects of docking a sailboat is to understand and minimize the effects of Captain Murphy. What can go wrong when docking a sailboat? Everything! Every boater decides to \Sail return to the marina at the same time or the light winds all of a sudden grow to hurricane strength. Sometimes the main- by Bob Ricketts sail refuses to drop because the halyard is tangled with the life jackets or the skipper becomes too demanding and the crew for- gets everything they learned about sailing. However or whenever Captain Murphy strikes, the skipper has to be prepared for disaster and know how to avoid the worst. Following the four P's—Planning Prevents Poor Performance—is a must for all skippers.

Getting ready Long before entering the marina, all non-essential gear should be stowed properly and the crew informed about how the docking maneuver will take place and what the specific responsibilities are of each crew member. The crew should have all the necessary gear including dock lines, fenders, paddles and the boathook ready for the dock landing. The halyards should - - - _ - • be ready to drop the sails and depending -111111*, on the sailing rig, the jib sail should be ' furled before entering the dock area. The mainsail is the preferred sail to use • •— •.• • during dock landings because it is directly • * II* V. AI "3. controlled by the skipper and will luff easier than the jib sail. If the sailboat has an Following the four Ps—Planning engine, it should be started before the final approach to the dock. Most important, Prevents Poor Performance—is a must the skipper should communicate the docking plan and be able to "direct" the crew for all skippers. to carry out the docking procedure. Not until the boat and crew have completed all the planning is the boat ready to approach the dock. Wind direction Docking under sail is often made much more difficult than it actually is. Under- standing the wind direction and how the boat will carry into the wind (its momen- 14 Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania ,166.08 esod Aa soaide,6 Series tuna) away stern the and ing. grams in safe the cured, the Series three onto attach the the the Series standing because possible. to member wind Remember of law: Bob at people points Captain terrible docking per's with tions dock tiful people. when vania Sail Sheet Secure It Luff Prepare Sail Look Drop Allow Allow Drop Luff Penn Docking case the his dock. dock. boat boat's wind. you boat The docking is Ricketts, the day the and is skill from different Your pushes whenever landing. summer and nobody II. as dock. that I. drop to up not III. of and the the the the State the the the when in over to crew. have momentum). Murphy's dock. for skipper Avoid landings the close The of spring in the the the speed the The to will sail. on critical the and that a the dock boat key illustrate The mainsail sails mainsail the mainsail wind boats maneuvering the sailing enough fend boat sailboat maneuvers. to the dock dock. Chesapeake University D.Ed., is Remember wind sails wind the to dock. wind teaching luff dock. wind to possible. slow head Many mainsail. or standing lines. the make boat is quickly. wind should the landing will following off, to to a when under dock too most momentum on conditions. be successful under to (don't speeds After the dock and after get is as up is latter, momentum dock depends Have onto is push with another accidents a far spoiled is sailing blowing blowing luff you a into and close dock famous Don't close know docking is the the by faculty all communicating a Bay. blowing will landings the as from the fenders, a the are the crowded lower line series and head spends to the line four as boat, wind possible on to with reach. dock in approach). dock. boat a is how let be by watch boat windward is the the the the occur soon wind. maritime the must too Pennsyl- ready to member practice because the P's up a secured of a a perfect under- condi- across as under easily much is land- beau- carry dock dock skip- onto bow, boat boat poor fast. with into dia- (re- and and sail the for se- as to to Series wind Series Series —) HI -F? II I drop sail luff wind sail T wind ,I, T or luff Fall sail 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 15 Equipment Storage in Winter

equipment on board. Above, removing radios, compasses by Stephen Knox Outboard engines are one of the most and other gear and storing the items likely pieces of equipment to be damaged indoors keeps them in better shapefor During the cold winter months, boating is or stolen over the winter. If your engine is next season. the last thing on our minds. Though win- small enough to remove from the boat and ter is hard on boaters who are forced to store in the garage at home, you should wait for spring, it is even harder on equip- certainly do so. ment that is left to languish in a boat. A few minutes time spent caring for your Outboards Winter is also the ideal time to do an- equipment now can make sure everything As a minimum, you should connect a nual maintenance on your outboard, such is still ready to go next spring when you garden hose to your outboard and run as a tune-up or changing the oil in the are ready to go. clean water through the cooling system. If lower unit. If you prefer to have a profes- As a general rule, anything that can be there is danger of the engine freezing, the sional do your annual maintenance, carry removed from the boat should be re- water should either be drained or you your outboard to him in the fall. That moved. Even though your boat may have should drop a short length of garden hose way, he will have plenty of time to do the a winter cover, the loose equipment will in a bucket of antifreeze solution and run work and have the engine back to you in stay in better condition and be more se- the solution through the engine. the spring. Not only will he appreciate the cure if you remove it and carry it home. In either case, shut down the engine by extra time to do the work, but he will un- Of course, if you are fortunate enough to fogging the carburetor with oil. Fogging doubtedly do a better job because he will have secure inside winter storage for your oil is available at any marine supply store. not be in a hurry as he would in the boat, then you can leave most of the You will find directions on the can. spring. 16 Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania Pack up all your boat's safeo, equipmen4 carry it home and examine it at your leisure during the long Batteries, fuel tanks Batteries are also subject to damage winter months. from freezing if the charge is low. Remove your boat's batteries and carry them home required. A leak in the gas tank is danger- Inboards for winter storage. Add water as required, ous. Only a few minutes of inspection If you have an inboard engine, fall is charge the batteries fully, and store them every fall can keep yours in top shape. the logical time to change the engine oil. in a cool location (a basement is ideal). Most owners put this chore off until the About halfway through the winter, check Anchor, rode spring. If you do, the dirty oil, and any the water again and recharge the batteries. Though your anchor and rode would corrosive combustion byproducts in it, will Just before you install them on the boat, probably be none the worse for spending sit in the engine all winter. It is much bet- top the water off again and recharge the the winter on the boat, you should remove ter for your engine to sit all winter with batteries. it if there is any possibility it could be clean oil. If your boat has portable fuel tanks, stolen during the winter. Either way, wash they are also best removed for the winter. off any mud that may have accumulated Electronics, safety gear Like all fuel tanks, portable tanks should on the anchor or rode during the season. Like some other equipment, your boat's be stored completely empty or completely Dry it thoroughly and then store them for electronics will probably not suffer from full. If you choose to empty your tank, the winter. the cold but may be stolen. When you lay leave the fill cap open so that any water in Examine the chain for rust. Check the your boat up for the winter, remove all the the tank will evaporate and dry over the shackle to make sure it is still tight and electronics and carry them home for stor- winter. that the lock wire is still in place. Check age. If there is any doubt about the con- If the tank is stored half full with the the thimble of the nylon portion of the nections, label the wires as you disconnect cap on, water may condense on the inside rode. If the rode has carried a heavy load each piece of equipment. Inspect each of the tank throughout the winter. during the season, the line may have connection and clean the terminals as re- If you store your tanks full, add a gaso- stretched enough so that it rolled out of quired. line stabilizer so the gas can still be usable the thimble. Also check the rode for Fall is also the ideal time to check your in the spring. Such gasoline additives are chaffing and abrasion. boat's safety equipment. Pack it all up in a available at any automotive parts store or Do not store nylon line (anchor rode or box, carry it home, and then examine it at marine supply store. dock lines) where they will be exposed to your leisure during the long winter While your portable fuel tank is re- sunlight. Ultraviolet light causes a slow months. moved from the boat, examine carefully to degradation of nylon fibers. More impor- Check flares for the expiration dates. see if there is any rust forming on the bot- tantly, if the line is left exposed to the Replace any that have expired or that will tom. Clean and touch up the paint job as weather, it will stiffen and become harder expire during the next boating season. Do to handle. not discard expired flares. They are proba- Even though this radio is protected If your anchor rode or dock lines are bly still good and will serve as spares. from the elements, it is exposed to the stiff and hard to handle, soak them over- Though Coast Guard approved flares eyes of passers by. Electn9nics that are night in a bucket of fabric softener. Use a are waterproof, replace any that show left like this often grow legs during the concentration of two to three times that signs of water damage, such as the label winter recommended for normal laundry. peeling or the cardboard case starting to delaminate. Similarly, replace any 12-gauge or 25- gauge launched flares if the primer pockets show signs of corrosion, even though they may not have expired. Most marine fire extinguishers have a pressure gauge to show that the charge has not leaked. Check the gauges on your extinguishers to be sure that they are still in the green band. If your extinguishers do not have gauges, have them serviced by an approved agency just before the boating season starts. These extinguishers should be serviced every six months if they are in continuous use. Such service is generally expensive, so it would probably be cheaper in the long run just to replace those fire extinguishers with models that have gauges. While you are thinking of your fire ex-

Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 17 pok is exposed to moisture, it eventually absorbs water and loses its buoyancy. If you have kapok life preservers, squeeze each side of the life preserver to ensure that the inside plastic bag is still watertight. Hold pressure on the bag for at least 3 seconds. If the bag slowly deflates, there is a leak and the life jacket should be discarded and replaced. If you have life jackets (or any other gear, for that matter) that have been used in salt water, rinse them thoroughly with fresh water and allow them to dry before storage. If you have lights on your life jackets, install fresh batteries just before you put the life jackets back on the boat in the spring. Furthermore, all the batteries in your boat's equipment should be replaced just before the beginning of the season. Check flashlights, portable anchor lights, portable running lights, man overboard lights, portable AM/FM radios, and any other equipment containing batteries. If you replace the batteries every spring, the equipment will never fail you when you don't have spare batteries on hand. Sails If you have a sailboat, you should certainly remove the sails over the winter. Af- ter the last sail of the season, stretch the sails out on your lawn and hose them down with fresh water. After they dry thoroughly, fold them and store them in their bags for the winter. If the sails show signs of damage, such tinguishers, decide if you need to add one every six months. Have yours serviced just as torn batten pockets, chaffed stitching, or more additional fire extinguishers. The before the season starts and you should be split seams or chaffed cloth, carry them to Coast Guard minimum requirements are all right for the entire season. a sailmaker for repairs. Take them at the just that—minimum requirements. Every If you do not have a fixed halon fire end of the sailing season so he will have boat should have at least two fire extin- extinguishing system in your gasoline in- plenty of time to make the necessary re- guishers and even on a small boat, three board, you should. An automatic system pairs before spring arrives. Sailmakers are can't be too many. If you ever have a fire, in the engine compartment can signifi- swamped during the spring by sailors who you will be amazed at how quickly one cantly improve the fire protection aboard have postponed repairs until the last min- small fire extinguisher can be discharged. your boat. It might also qualify you for a ute before the season starts. Take your sails The dry chemical extinguishing agent in reduced insurance premium. early and avoid the rush. most fire extinguishers tends to cake over a If you carry canned soft drinks or food long period. When you check your fire ex- PFDs aboard your boat, be sure to remove all tinguishers, turn each one upside down Life jackets tend to be packed into out- cans when you lay up the boat. Not only and give it a sharp blow with a plastic or of-the-way corners and forgotten from will steel cans rust, but cans with liquid in rubber hammer. Then turn it right side up season to season. Remove all life jackets them may freeze and burst over the winter. and bang the side of the extinguisher from your boat and examine them care- If you have a porta-potti or holding again. fully over the winter. Modern life jackets tank, be sure that it is emptied and If your boat has an inboard engine and are almost indestructible. You should re- cleaned at the end of the season. It, too, you have installed a fixed halon extin- place any, though, that are the least bit could freeze and split. guishing system, remove the halon bottle suspect. Take a few minutes now to care for your and have it checked by an authorized ser- Most inexpensive Type II life jackets are equipment. When the spring comes, your vice company. Most of the fixed halon made using waterproof plastic bags filled recommissioning will be much easier and bottles do not have pressure gauges and with kapok. The kapok furnishes excellent your boating season much safer. should be serviced by an approved agency flotation as long as it stays dry. If the ka- • 18 Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania Preventing Outboard Motor Double by Virgil Chambers • Incorrect tilt angle or improper load distribution. Engine trouble tops the slate of the causes • Fouled propeller or lower unit. of difficulties aboard recreational boats. • Damaged prop blades or bushing as- Fortunately, most engine trouble is a prob- sembly. lem rather than an emergency, and diffi- • Engine knock: Often caused by loose culties can be overcome with a tool kit and prop or loose fly wheel nut, by worn cylin- some basic knowledge of trouble- der bearings, worn pistons, or by a broken shooting. engine mount spring. Generally, if the en- Here are some common outboard mo- gine starts to knock, take it to the dealer. tor problems. Knocking at high speed usually indicates a Engine fails to start or engine loses serious problem. power or stops while under way (engines You could experience many more prob- are more likely not to start than to quit lems that are not listed here, but these are while running). the most typical. There are also particular • Out of gas, gas is old, or the fuel sys- concerns that may be special to your make tem is contaminated. and model of outboard. This information • Check the valves of a portable fuel tank is addressed in the owner's manual, which and the fuel line from the tank to the en- you should keep aboard your boat while gine. Be sure the line is properly connected you're on the water. to the tank and to the engine. Proper maintenance and care can elimi- • Check the battery connections. nate most of these problems, and can help • Loose wire in the ignition circuit. Warn- you minimize your overall operating ex- ing: An outboard engine's ignition system penses. can cause a serious shock. Here are some ideas on engine tune-up • Fuel not reaching cylinders; check the and maintenance that can help you get on/off valve and the fuel line from the maximum performance and enjoyment tank to the cylinders; check the fuel line from your outboard motor. under the engine cover; check the spark • Lubrication: Check grease require- plugs to see if they are wet with fuel; if so, ments and change the oil as suggested in the engine is probably flooded. the owner's manual. • Overheating: If the engine is hot, the • Fuel system check: Fuel filters should cooling system may be blocked, or the wa- be replaced periodically, and carburetors ter pump may be worn out. Do not try to need routine adjustment. Both are neces- Difficulties can be start an overheated engine; let it cool. sary to obtain peak performance from the New outboard engines have water pump engine. overcome with a indicators, called telltales, that discharge a • Spark plugs and ignition system: These steady stream of water when the water items are subject to wear and contamina- tool kit and some pump is operating properly. If your en- tion, and should be checked regularly. basic knowledge of gine's telltale isn't shooting a steady • Propellers: Props are subject to various stream of water, shut off the engine and underwater hazards, so for maximum per- troubleshooting. first check to see if the telltale hose is formance, service, straighten or replace clogged before assuming that your en- your prop when necessary. gine's water pump is malfunctioning. • Water pump wear: These parts are sub- • Fouled spark plugs: Clean or replace ject to various amounts of wear, depend- them. ing on water conditions. Your dealer can • Carburetor adjustment too lean or too tell you how often these pans need replac- rich. ing in your area. • Improper oil-fuel mixture. Remember that normal maintenance is Engine seems to run well but lacks your responsibility as the owner-operator power while under way: of the craft, and proper operation • Improper mounting. of the engine enhances its life span. Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 19 something you gawked at, photographed and then reverently portaged around. Today, we confidently paddle rapids that were once considered the realm of fools and experts. But we don't "steer" around obstacles! Canoes are "sidewheelers"—a tail rudder is effective only when the power is on. Even then, the right move up front Turns is always a better, more powerful idea. Thus, the bow initiates by Cliff Jacobson turns, the stern follows suit—just like a hook and ladder fire truck. It's all a matter of timing and of matching your strokes to the moods of the river. utumn mist on a favorite Pennsylvania river—time for Here are the basic turning procedures, all of which are one last paddle trip before the snows of winter numb programmed by current speed, paddle blade position and Ayour memories of running water. Paddling bow on "togetherness." this run is a friend who lacks your paddle skill but shares your love of determined currents and light whitewater. Admittedly, The sweeps control up front is shaky. But no matter; the river is forgiving. A The sweep is the easiest of the turning strokes, and the one good stern rudder will get you through. recommended in most traditional flatwater canoeing books. Don't you believe it! Canoeing in currents—indeed, on any That's too bad, because the stroke is not very effective. water—is a coordinated effort, one which requires equal skill at Graceful? Yes. Powerful, no! Sweeping water around the hull in both ends of the canoe. The notion that the "captain rides in a wide arc does turn the craft but it also induces forward the stern" is heresy from a bygone day when whitewater was motion—exactly what you don't want when a rock suddenly

The bow initiates turns, the stern follows suit—just like a hook and ladderfire truck. It's all a matter of timing and matching your strokes to the moods of the river Jacobson ChIf

20 Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania looms ahead. Nonetheless, sweeps are useful for spooning on quiet water, and any time you're paddling alone. The diagrams are self-explanatory. By combining a reverse sweep in the bow with a forward sweep in the stern, the canoe will pivot handily on its midpoint, assuming you're paddling on opposite sides of the boat. Draw Here's a grand turning stroke that makes both bow and stern a veritable horsepower machine, especially in currents and aerated water. Execute the draw from a kneeling or well-braced sitting position. Reach as far out as you can and power the paddle inward, forcing water under the canoe. Don't splash the side of the hull! When the paddle comes to within a half-foot of the boat, slice it out (backwards and up) and draw again. The draw is not a namby-pamby maneuver. It requires real muscle english, so put your whole body into it. You'll quickly discover that the stroke has a righting (bracing) effect on the power. You can lean far out over the side during execution of the draw, but you must re-center your weight as soon as you stop pulling, or you'll capsize. The draw is the stroke to use in strong currents and when crossing eddy lines. DRAW Cross draw Same as the draw, only done by the bow person on the "off" paddling side. Wrench your shoulders a full 90 degrees, dip the blade, and pull! The bow will scoot handily in the direction of the cross draw. This is your most powerful stroke for turning away from the bow person's paddle side when the canoe is under light power or no power. It is also the preferred way to spin a solo canoe full circle to the off side. Note: The cross draw lacks the bracing action of the draw, so your weight must be centered throughout the power phase of the stroke. This is especially important when a cross draw at the bow is combined with a reverse sweep at the stern. Now, both partners are stroking on the same side of the canoe—a sure recipe for a capsize if they don't have their acts together. Pry The pry is simply a more powerful version of the old "push- away," recommended in the Red Cross canoeing manual. The stroke is commonly executed in both bow and stern. For greatest leverage, begin the stroke as close to the extreme end of the canoe as possible. Thus, the bow pry is started at the bow person's knee, while the stern pry begins far aft, as a basic rudder position. Force the blade powerfully outward. Throw your body into it! Use a feathered underwater recovery to return the paddle to its starting position. The stroke is lightning-fast: Power out, feather in (underwater), power out again. The pry is usually applied in series. One application is seldom enough. The pry does provide bracing action of sorts, and for this reason, it's preferred over the cross draw for use in heavy water. ki However, in shallow water, this deep-running stroke may hang up on rocks and capsize the canoe. The pry is also hard on paddle PRY shafts and wood gunnels. For this reason, canoeists tend to 1. prefer the cross draw for most applications. g Post The post is a racing stroke, though one that works eminently

Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 21 CROSSOVER well in a cruising canoe. Basically, it's nothing more than an It can also be modified as a pure flatwater turning stroke. open-faced, stationary draw. The stroke combines a powerful Like the post, the low brace requires a current differential (or a turning component with a solid brace (outrigger). It depends on powerful downward push) to produce results. The solution is to a current differential to work, which means the faster you drive get up some steam before you apply the low brace. Now, modify the canoe, the better the post turns. the stroke by raising the leading edge of the blade slightly so The post is executed by the bow person. Get up some speed, that the paddle "climbs" in the water. Now, you've combined reach out as you would for a draw, but open the leading edge of the turning component of the reverse sweep with the stabilizing the paddle face about 30 degrees, and hold the paddle stationary action of the low brace. Add a cross draw up front, and the in the water. The onrushing water will catch the "braced canoe will perform an instant wheelie—real slick and impressive rudder" of the blade and turn the canoe snappily toward the to watch. paddle side. There's a good deal of force involved, so hold the stick like you mean it or the water will tear it from your hands. Outside lean Don't confuse the post with the traditional bow rudder, This sounds strange, but it really works. Power ahead, then recommended in the Red Cross canoeing manual. In the latter lean the canoe (a few inches is sufficient) to the outside of the stroke, the paddle shaft is braced solidly against the gunnel at an anticipated turn (opposite of what you'd do on a bicycle). If you outward angle of about 45 degrees. In the post, it is held near hold the lean, the canoe will cut a nice arc in the opposite vertical, some distance from the canoe—which means better direction of the lean. Add a light pry at the end of your stern bracing in the turn and more purchase in the water. stroke, and you'll break the tail loose and skid the canoe full Again, remember that turns are best initiated by the bow and circle. Lone paddlers of decked slalom canoes sometimes use a checked by the stern. This is why turning strokes like the draw, counter lean to keep their skittish craft from turning away from cross draw and post work so well. their paddling side. Caution: Don't use this maneuver for quick turns in rapids— Low brace, inside lean you'll upset the canoe! The low brace functions as an outrigger to stabilize the canoe This short article can't do justice to the complexities of in turns, and to keep it from capsizing in heavy waves. It's a maneuvering canoes. Only practice in the hands of a competent pure whitewater stroke, though one which has been modified for tutor can do that. Making a canoe respond to your whims is a use in flat water. In its pure form, you reach far out, paddle laid function of skill, not power. Put simply, you cannot overpower a nearly flat in the water, palm of top hand up. If you're river. You must learn to control it to your advantage. Practice capsizing, a powerful downward thrust will right you. The low these strokes. Granted, there are times when "muscle" is a brace is an essential stroke for stabilizing the canoe when welcome companion, but only when it is accompanied by crossing strong eddy lines. paddle skill and knowledge of the river. alustrahons—Ga

22 Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania Repairs A new seal-coating made up of a coal- tar pitch mix is being used to repair several Commission boating access areas. The seal-coating will be sprayed onto the access' asphalt surfaces and will provide added protection from everyday wear and tear. The repairs on the access areas began in June and are scheduled for completion in September. The areas will be worked on during the week, Monday through Friday. No repairs will be made on weekends, but temporary closure of the access areas may take place during repair time. The following is a list of accesses at which repairs are scheduled. Huntingdon County: Point Access. Juniata County: Mahantango, Mifflin- town, Muskrat Springs, Thompsontown and Walker accesses. Lycoming County: Linden, Rose Valley Lake accesses (3 areas). Mifflin County: Musser's Dam Access. Northumberland County: Sunbury Ac- cess. Montour County: Chillisquaque, Dan- ville accesses. Perry County: Amity Hall, Greenwood, Montgomery accesses. Snyder County: Sunbury Access.— The Commission's Ninth Student Officer Class graduated June 3from the H. R. Stack- Sherri Akens house School of Fishery Conservation and Watercraft Safety. Executive Director Edward R. Miller presided over the ceremony and Joan R. Plumly, Commission past- president, presented the graduates with their diplomas. The new WCOs are: (front row) Drinking, Boating Raymond A. Bednarchik, (second row left to right) William C. Carey, Paul A. Nosal, and the Law Jr., Jeffrey S. Bridi, (third row left to right) George J. Kavish, John Bowser, and Alan D. Robinson.—Sherri Akens Drinking, Boating and the Law is a newly revised and updated Fish Commis- sion pamphlet that provides answers to the most commonly asked questions concern- Prom pton Reservoir Horsepower Limits Clarified ing boating and alcohol. The publication offers answers to questions such as: May I The Fish Commission is calling boaters' attention to the horsepower limits on drink while on my boat? What is meant Prompton Reservoir in Wayne County. Boats are limited to a maximum of 10 horse- by "under the influence"? How many power under a change brought about when the impoundment reverted to U.S. Army drinks will make me feel intoxicated? Is Corps of Engineers control from the state Department of Environmental Resources. beer less intoxicating than whiskey? How Boaters are cautioned that Fish Commission publications and other sources of will the law enforcement officer test me to printed material they may consult could provide outdated information, which indi- determine if I am under the influence? cated that horsepower was either unlimited or restricted to electric motors only on Does the law enforcement officer require this 280-acre impoundment. Boaters are urged to check their boating summary my permission to test my blood alcohol book of regulations, which has been updated to include the correct information, content? What happens if I am caught? and also to read any signs that may be posted along the lake. Waterways conserva- For a free copy, send a self-addressed, tion officers will be enforcing the regulations that limit the use of motors to 10 stamped business-sized envelope with re- horsepower or less. quests to: Publications Section, Pennsylva- Ma Fish Commission, P.O. Box 1673, Harrisburg, PA 17105-1673. Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 23 l)edicated to the sound consenation of our aquatic Moult:CS. the protection and management of the states disersi• Shopping Tips for RV Buyers rd tisheriec. and to the ideals of 'alb boating and optimum boating opror- tunnies.

Thinking about buying an RV? Here enjoy their units and don't want to risk EXECUTIVE OFFICE result, lenders make Edward R. Miller, PE.. Executive are a few tips that can help make your RV losing them. As a Director shopping easy. terms on RV loans longer and monthly LaWIVICe W Hoffman. EUTlaitY Assistant To familiarize yourself with different RV payments more affordable. Dennis T. Guise. Chief Counsel/ types and brands, you may want to start New RV loans of 10 years or longer for Planning & Environmental Regulation John Arum'. Division of with an RV buyer's guide. These guides larger loans are typical when dealers ar- Environmental .Servion RVs by type, providing model range financing. When borrowing directly Joseph A. Glom Legislatrir Liaison categorize Lois J. Telep, EVCCUliVe Seerelary and manufacturer's name, size specifica- from a bank, savings and loan associa- ex- BUREAU OF tions, standard and optional features, tions or credit unions, loans generally ADMINISTRATIVE floor plans, construction details and pho- tend five to seven years for a new unit. A SERVICES span 717-657-4522 tos. They also list suggested retail prices loan for a used RV is more likely to Allison J. Mayhew, DifalOf and give reader service information. Buy- three to five years. Nbc=1, Anomie/ Glen Reed. federal Aid er's guides are available at libraries and One final RV shopping tip: check for Mary Seine. Fishing License's Vehicle Industry Association bookstores. Recreation BUREAU OF FISHERIES RV camping and outdoor magazines are (RVIA) seals before buying. Ask your 814-359-5100 oval or shield- Delano Graff, Director also good sources for comparing models dealer to point out the Vincent Mudrak. Division of and features, as are friends who already shaped seal located on the exterior of Research Richard A. Smder. Division of own RVs. the unit. Fisheries Management visit your local RV dealer. Most The oval seal on motorhomes, travel Dennis Ricker, Division of Trout Next, Production have a variety of RV types and brands on trailers, park trailers, truck campers and Shyd Hood. Division of liannesnteri their lots, giving you a selection of features folding camping trailers means that the Coo.' mter fish Production and floor plans from which to choose. RV manufacturer is a member of RVIA, BUREAU OF PROPERTY than AND FACILITIES Dealers also sponsor and support local and certifies compliance with more MANAGEMENT RV shows, another excellent opportunity 500 safety specifications for electric, 814-359-5100 James \bung. PE.. Dinetor for RV shoppers to check out a variety of plumbing, heating and fire and life safety Vacant. Division of Construction & products and talk to a number of knowl- systems set by the American National Maintenance Services K. Ronald 'hiss, R.A.. Division of edgeable industry experts, all on the same Standards Institute. Engineering & Technical Services The black and silver shield displayed on Eugene 0. Banker, PE., Divon of day and in one location. Property Services With five different types to choose the exterior of van conversions means that member and BUREAU OF LAW from, there's an RV to fit every budget. the converter is an RVIA ENFORCEMENT New motorhomes average in price from self-certifies compliance with Federal Mo- 717-657-4542 W. Manhart. Dinytor $22,000 to $49,000. Travel trailers generally tor Vehicle Safety Standards(FMVSS) and Eduard cost $13,000 to $17,000. Folding camping certain National Electrical Code(NEC) re- BUREAU OF BOATING 717457.4540 trailers and truck campers average $4,000 quirements. For lists of RV buyer's guides, John Simmons. Director Used RVs, of enthusiast publications, local RV shows Virgil (lumbers. Division of Boating and $6,000, respectively. Safety & Education course, cost far less. and other RV camping information, write: Andrew Mutch. Division of Boat RV financing options also make pur- Go Camping America, Dept. P, P.O. Box Registration chases easier. RVers are reliable buyers who 2669, Reston, VA 22090. BUREAU OF EDUCATION & INFORMATION 7174574518 Cheryl K. Riky. Dintror Larry Shaffer. Publications Community Sailing Programs Resource Book Stephen B. Ulsh. Education C. Blake %inch, Education Daw Volf,Afedia Relations 200-plus pages of facts and advice, the Community Sailing Programs An Miehaels,Magazines Packed with led R. Walke, Graphic Design Resource Book is now available, the result of a joint effort between the National Sailing States Yacht Racing Union (USYRU). BOAT PENNSYLVANIA Industry Association (NSIA) and the United EDITORIAL ADVISORY The Resource Book covers the how-tos of assembling a community sailing program, COMMITTEE: facilities. It also Virgil Chambers. Chairman (Chief including equipment selection, maintenance, operations, staffing and Boating Safety and filuanion includes nine case studies profiling sailing programs around the country. Sailboat manu- livinsylvania fish and national government bodies, Commission) facturers producing typical boats for training programs Cheryl Kimedine (Special ProlZmms organizations concerned with sailing are also listed. Coordinator. Mama of Boating) individuals and Charles Wilbridge (canoeing) The book is available for $25 from the NSIA, 401 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, John M. Cornish II (urger skiing, Box 209, Newport, RI 02840. Tom Reinke (cruising) IL 60611, and from the USYRU, P.O. John Wicdiger(DER Burma of State /Inks)

24 Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 4 Inter-Bureau Training

Last June, Bureau of Education & Information and Bureau of Boating staffers (left) met at the Commission's Goldsboro Access, near Harrisburg, to exchange views, listen and learn from one another during a day-long session of inter-bureau training.

Olympic, World Cup Status for Canoe/Kayak Slalom The American Canoe Association (ACA) says that Whitewater Slalom will be included in the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona, Spain, according to a telegram received from the president of the Interna- tional Canoe Federation. This news comes 20 years after the first time whitewater slalom was in the Olympics, in Augsburg, West Germany, as part of the 1972 Munich Games. Brig Niagara Restoration The announcement coincides with the inauguration of an annual World Cup in For those of you who have never seen a naval restoration, come to Erie, where the whitewater canoe/kayak, starting with the United States Brig Niagara, the only remaining vessel from the War of 1812, has been fully 1988 season. The 1988 World Cup will restored to its original glory. consist of seven races in five countries. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, through the Pennsylvania Historical and Mu- Hopes of whitewater athletes for Olym- seum Commission (PHMC), restored the Niagara in time for the 175th Anniversary of the pic status seemed dashed at the time of the Battle of Lake Erie—the battle in which Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry forced the Calgary Winter Olympics when Juan An- surrender of the British Navy on September 10, 1813, and secured peace on the American- tonio Samaranch, president of the Interna- Canadian border. Perry's now-famous words, "We have met the enemy and they are tional Olympic Committee, announced ours .. ." were used in a letter to describe the conclusion of this famous naval victory. that there would be no new sports or The restoration was a sight to behold. The building site, on the waterfront of West events in the 1992 Olympics. But the Front Street, was full of activity as shipwrights from all across the United States joined Spanish organizing committee for the Bar- international ship designer Melbourne Smith in the reconstruction, using the ship's origi- celona Games and the International Feder- nal plans and specifications. Bill Elliott from Navato, California; Eric Johnson from ation pressed hard for inclusion of the Seattle, Washington; Matt Dyer from Gig Harbor, Washington; Steve Brake from Pem- whitewater events. As in 1972, the strong brooke, Maine; Rich Ventresco from San Lorenzo, California; Kent Taylor from Bonnie support of the host city was crucial to Lake, Washington; and lone hometown boy Fred Heidt, from Erie, worked from sunup to the acceptance of the Whitewater Slalom sundown on this historic project. proposal. Many of these shipwrights worked together on restoration projects in California, and all The news of Olympic status for white- were anxious to see the Niagara in the water under full sail. In watching these men, one water canoe/kayak comes just as the saw a love of sailing and a love of the craft, which involved piecing a vessel together. They United States, for the first time, is prepar- came from all corners of the country for one reason—the Niagara. ing to host the next World Championships The process was tedious as the shipwrights took each plank and steamed it so that it in 1989. The World Championships will covered the frames of the vessel and fit perfectly to the hull. take place June 11-25, 1989, on the Savage Launch date for the vessel was Saturday, September 10, and festivities included a mili- River in Bloomington, Maryland. This tary parade, boat regatta, official naval launch, memorial services to those who served in year, on June 23-26, 1988, the Maryland the War of 1812, and formal evening ball. International Canoe/Kayak Classic took History was made again on Erie's waterfront. The art of early shipbuilding and the place on the same Savage River site, as sense of excitement created by those involved in the process blended in a historic a Pre-World Championship and World moment.—Susan S. Cohen Cup Race. Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 25 Getting Victims out of the Water

by Virgil Chambers board your boat. To illustrate these tech- the side a section of line or webbing length niques, consider different scenarios, and enough so that it hangs into the water. Se- Many times boating mishaps occur that how you might rescue a victim with care, cure the line at both ends approximately 3 initially do not appear to be serious. A fall skill, and most of all, success. to 4 feet apart inside the gunwale of the or jump overboard by a passenger may be craft or on the grab line outside the gun- such an example. Should the person be in- Stirrup technique wale. The victim then places his foot in the jured or unconscious, however, you'd Suppose you're not able to grab the per- loop (stirrup) and swings the opposite leg know immediately that this is an emer- son and pull the victim aboard. However, up into the boat. Depending on the size of gency. In any case, the problem of retriev- the person has the strength to hold onto a your boat, you may have to counterbal- ing the person back aboard the boat is grab line or side of the craft. A method ance the weight on the boarding side by paramount. that lets an individual climb into a boat staying low and having someone else in the There are techniques relying on simple with little difficulty is the stirrup tech- craft lean in the other direction. With a equipment and basic skills that facilitate nique. minimum amount of assistance, he is in CharnDOrS getting someone who is in the water on Quite simply, what you do is loop over the boat. Vogd

26 Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania You can even lift someone by yourself. Most people can roll someone up if the victim is their weight or less because the actual weight lifted is only half the weight of the rescuer. For the one-person lift, the ropes should be placed under the middle of the victim's back and under the victim's thighs. Remember that nylon webbing is easier to use if you have it available. This technique works well for a conscious person who can stiffen his body. However, it may not work as well for one person lifting an unconscious person. Because a boat rocks with the waves, a person may be injured by swinging into the hull. If he is rolled up quickly at the right time, this danger can be minimized. If an air mattress is available, it may be rigged like the net or blanket. Partially in- flated, it can serve as a cushion. Unless the air mattress is wide, or two are used in If you have any rope or line aboard, tandem, take care to be sure that the per- Roll-aboard technique (and what boat doesn't?) you can rig it to son doesn't slip out. Suppose you have an unconscious or obtain the same mechanical advantage. You can obtain the same mechanical ad- exhausted individual in the water alongside Two persons using rope, or better yet, vantage using anything available that will your boat. He weighs too much just to webbing, could easily lift someone from not tear. Equipment such as a tarpaulin, pull onboard and he is too weak for the the water. hammock, sail or even a garden hose that stirrup technique to work. You may be First, secure the ends of the rope or is often found at boat piers and slips will holding him afloat. Hopefully you can put webbing to something stable inside the work. a personal flotation device (PFD) on him, boat. Fasten the middle of the rope to the There is one problem with using any but you want to get him into the boat as boat, and create two large loops, letting non-porous material. Puddles of water soon as possible. How do you accomplish the loops drop into the water. This tech- may collect and add weight to be lifted. this? nique works best if the rope is nylon, be- More important, however, such water You roll him up the side of the boat by cause nylon line sinks, letting you might be inhaled by an unconscious vic- way of a simulated pulley system. You use manipulate the line more easily under- tim. To prevent this puddling, keep the the person to create a mechanical advan- neath the victim. person at a slight angle, head-up during tage, which halves his weight. The individual is positioned on the the roll-aboard procedure. If you place the person in a net or blan- loops. The lines of the loops are placed Try these techniques. With practice ket, two people can roll him up, and the under his upper back, one under his waist, you'll be surprised how easily you can roll weight will be divided between them. You one under his hips and one just below his someone up from the water. You can try thus quartered his weight. knees. You may have to place a rescuer in lifting each other out of the water onto a You should be sure that the top of the the water to position the line properly. The pool deck. When you are confident in net or blanket is secured to the gunwale or victim's arms should be kept inside the your ability in a pool, practice in open wa- inside the craft. Depending on the size of loops, and be sure the rope under his up- ter. Waves, currents, cold water, and large the net or blanket and the amount of free- per back doesn't slip under his neck. You boats make a big difference. board, you may be able to stand or kneel don't want to choke him! Understanding these simple techniques on the top, anchoring it inside the craft. Both rescuers can now pull the loops combined with practice could let you save An unconscious victim should have his carefully, reaching across to grab the loops a life. head tilted slightly down as he is rolled up. as you roll the person onto the boat. Water should then drain from his airway. You'll have to be careful and pull more on Unfortunately, you might not have a net the ropes near the head to be sure he re- Virgil Chambers is chief of the Boating or blanket when you need it most, but mains level, or slightly head-down to drain Safety and Education Division in the there is still another way. his airway. Commission Bureau of Boating.

Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 27 Water-n- limmeamiThi Several early-morning fishermen lined the banks of the peaceful I asked the children who had to wear PFDs in Pennsylvania. lake. The haze just started to lift as the sun came out. There They yelled "everyone." I said that unfortunately many boaters were a few boats out on the lake. The tranquil silence was do not think that PFDs are that important. When boaters leave broken by screaming voices and a rattling noise coming up the for a day on the water, they seldom expect to end up in the road. A white van towing a large trailer filled with aluminum water, so they do not wear a PFD. PFDs are present but not canoes came into view. Following closely were two yellow buses worn or accessible in 75 percent of Pennsylvania's boating fatalities. filled with noisy children. As the vehicles pulled into the parking The experienced boater and professional wear well-fitted lot, the Pennsylvania Fish Commission logo became apparent on PFDs. Bass fishermen wear a PFD when participating in a the side of the van. fishing tournament. Experienced canoeists and kayakers wear Several fishermen rushed over to see if fish were being stocked PFDs. Sailors in races and whitewater rafters wear PFDs. These in the lake. When they heard "no," they curiously hung around boaters realize that they could end up in the water. to see what was going to be done. The kids started swarming The law states that children under nine years of age and non- from the buses and veered toward the water. Immediately they swimmers must wear PFDs on Pennsylvania Fish Commission ran out, jumped in the water and began splashing each other. and Bureau of State Parks waters. All boaters will be safer when The Fish Commission personnel hopped out of the van and they realize the importance of PFDs and start to wear them. rounded up the children. These Commission personnel were the employees from the Bureau of Boating. Skits Heidi Hornberger, our summer intern and designated drill The children then performed a variety of skits. The first sergeant for the day, ran down and got them out of the water. included two volunteers, Danny and Betty. They sat down in The kids were barely controllable as they excitedly ran around chairs facing their classmates. Betty pretended to be the boat with pent-up nervous energy. They chattered in anticipation of operator and put on a captain's hat and sunglasses. Danny put being on the water all day. As Heidi tried to keep their voices on his first mate's hat and sunglasses, and started casting for down to a subdued roar, she divided them into two groups. fish. Heidi and Terry Christy, our summer employee, started one I told the class that Betty and Danny were out boating for the group unloading canoes and demonstrating how to carry canoes day. They had planned to go swimming, fishing and picnicking. as they went. The children charged down to the water, arguing Betty was operating the boat and was heading to the beach. about who got to canoe together. Suddenly, she saw a group of cute boys playing football. She While Heidi and Terry's group was busy unloading, I started swerved as she tried to get a closer look and drove into a rock to teach the other group about personal flotation devices pile. The rocks punched a hole in the boat bottom and it began (PFDs), water safety and basic rescue techniques. to sink. Betty and Danny were not wearing PFDs, so they had I taught the children how to look at the label on a PFD to to find them and quickly put them on. check its size. PFDs should be bought to fit just like clothing. I told the class that I was going to need their help. The They come in all assorted sizes, shapes and colors. If you do not students were getting louder and louder as they heckled Betty like your PFD, you will not wear it! Choose them carefully! If a about looking at boys. To simulate the boating accident, I had PFD is too small, it may not float you above the surface. If it is the class yell, "One, two, three, crash!!" too large, it may float up over your head and come off. PFDs Betty and Danny scrambled to find PFDs. They found two should always be worn correctly with the buckles fastened and underneath the seats. One was a child's small and the other was Zippers zipped up. an adult extra-large still in its original plastic wrapper. It took When I asked the students how to wear a Type IV seat the children several minutes to get the PFDs out of the cushion, they suggested to wear it on your back like a backpack. wrappers, untangled and put on. Unfortunately, because the I carefully explained that if worn this way, the seat cushion PFDs were not the correct size, they may not have kept Betty would creep up over the head and force it underwater. A seat and Danny afloat. cushion floating on the surface would be the only thing visible I pointed out that when a person unexpectedly ends up in the because you would be trapped floating underneath. water, the victim generally has 10 seconds to make a life-or-death Seat cushions should be correctly used by hugging them next decision. It is very hard to put a PFD on while in the water to your stomach with your arms through the straps or by because it takes all of your energy and skills to yell for help and putting an alternate arm and leg through the strap. to stay afloat. Most people without practice cannot put a PFD When asked how to see if a PFD would float, one of the on while in the water. children said, "Jump in the water." I pointed out that if they Next, the students chose teams and lined up for a relay race. were in a boating accident and the boat sank, they would not When the students heard the whistle, they had to run a short want to jump in the water to see if they would float. distance, correctly put on a PFD, run back and tag the next PFDs should be checked on land before getting into the water person in line. The next teammate did the same thing. The last to see if they float. PFDs must be U. S. Coast Guard approved. person on the team had to run the distance, put on a PFD and This can be checked by looking at the label. PFDs should also wait to be rescued by his team. The teammates had to practice be checked to make sure that they do not have any broken throwing ropes or rescue bags until their throws reached the zippers, tears or missing straps. "mock" victim so that they could pull him in. The first team I also took along my float coat, which I use as my regular with all its members safely behind the finish line won. After winter jacket. I told one of the students to see if it floated. He listening to their yelling, cheering and coaching, you would have excitedly got ready to jump in the water when a buddy stopped thought that they were competing in the Olympics. him and checked the label to make sure it was a PFD. It was, so Now that everyone was feeling comfortable wearing PFDs, it he jumped in the water, went briefly under the surface and came was time for the water test. I lined the students up at the beach back up, bobbing like a cork, wearing a grin from ear to ear. to check that the PFDs fit correctly. I had the children raise

Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 29 their arms over their heads and I gave the PFDs a tug to make sure they would not pull off over their heads. They waded into the water so they would feel comfortable wearing a PFD. I demonstrated that the most efficient strokes to use when wearing a PFD were underhand strokes such as the modified breast stroke, side stroke and elementary back stroke. Two tearful nonswimmers wouldn't go out past their knees. I talked them out into waist-deep water and had them sit down so they could feel the floating sensation. Soon they were out, comfortably floating in PFDs in the water over their heads. The students still had so much energy, I made them swim 200 yards wearing PFDs so that they would feel more comfortable in the water and so I could recharge my energy level to keep up with them. Canoeing skills The second group was briefed by Heidi Hornberger and Terry Christy on proper strokes, launching canoes, changing places and swamped canoe management. The students were given paddles on land and demonstrated the following strokes before getting on the water: forward, reverse, draw, pry, forward sweep and reverse sweep. The students had to move their bodies in the direction that the strokes were to move them. Everyone should have been moving in the same direction, but there were so many movements, it looked like a modern dance step. It was obvious that they needed some work before putting on the water. Terry next taught how to launch a canoe and change places. A canoe should never be boarded on dry land. It should be pushed into the water until it is not bridged (there is no gap between the land and the water). Terry held one end of the canoe while a student carefully entered the boat. The student kept low, stepped in the center of the canoe and held onto both sides as he carefully worked his way back. Once he was in, he carefully picked up the paddle and braced the canoe so that Terry could enter. Terry slowly boarded the boat, kneeled and picked up his paddle. They paddled out into the pond. Meanwhile, Heidi described to the children how to exchange places in the canoe. Terry worked his way up to the middle of the canoe and then crouched down low. His partner slowly worked his way back, keeping low and with one hand on each gunnel, he carefully "leap-frogged" over Terry and moved back to take his seat. Terry moved to the front of the boat to take the bow position. Heidi asked the children what to do if the boat capsized. Most said "swim to shore." Heidi said that most people drown 10 feet from safety. Most boats float when capsized. She had Terry capsize his boat to demonstrate this. The canoe floated upright even when filled with water. Terry and his partner got on opposite sides of the canoe, counted to three and pulled themselves in. They sat in the bottom of the canoe (still filled with water) and hand paddled it back to shore. Even full of water, the canoe could support their combined weight and be paddled back to shore. Heidi again stressed the importance of staying with the boat after an accident. The overturned boat can be easily spotted by rescue personnel or other boaters in a real accident. It provides additional flotation to keep you up out of the water and it helps to slow the threat of hypothermia. When the students seemed comfortable with these basic skills, they were put on the water with two students to each canoe. The 30 Fall 1988 Boat Pennsylvania students noisily but enthusiastically clamored into the boats. Heidi set up a slalom course that the students had to paddle through so that she could closely observe their paddling skills to see if anyone needed individual attention. As the day got warmer, some of the over-zealous students had to be reminded that they were there to "practice their boating skills," not to get a suntan, splash their friends or impress their peers. It was a poignant learning experience because the students learned first-hand the importance of boating safety techniques. There is no better way to learn boating skills than to have hands-on practice in a safe, controlled environment.

Fish Commission Bureau of Boating

This class was a Boating and Water Safety Awareness Program presented by the Pennsylvania Fish Commis- sion Bureau of Boating. This is one of the typical programs that the Bureau is involved with in the The author (above) provides expert instruction and guidance warm-weather months. I am a boating education spe- in winter safety skills through games and skits. cialist in charge of the program, although everyone in the bureau helps teach the programs. The Boating and Water Safety Awareness Program is taught across the Commonwealth by 125 certified instructors. These instructors range from school teachers, scout leaders, parks and recreation personnel to conservation camp counselors. The instructors set up and coor- dinate boating safety classes in their areas or schools. The Fish Commission provides handouts, brochures and audio-visual aids for the instructors. Personal flotation devices, canoes, throw bags and other equipment can be borrowed from the Fish Commission. Students who complete this 6- to 10-hour course are awarded a certificate and patch. Several schools and organizations expand this program and take students on overnight river canoeing trips, water skiing trips, sailing or powerboating. The Bureau sponsors several instructor workshops on the Boating and Water Safety Awareness Program throughout the year. There is a course offered each spring through Slippery Rock University. Several others are offered through local school districts and parks throughout the year. Volunteer instructors are vital to this program because there are only three boating education specialists statewide. If you are interested in becom- ing a volunteer instructor, please call the Bureau of Boating in Harrisburg at 717-657-4540. The Boating Safety and Education staff does not just teach youth programs. The Water Rescue Course, developed by Virgil Chambers, chief of the Boating Safety Students learn vital safety and Education Division, was recently adopted by the National Association of Search and Rescue and is cur- skills (above) for cold-water rently being taught across the U. S. This division also produces boating publications, reviews boating acci- immersion, but there's no law dents, maintains aids-to-navigation and provides boating against having fun while audio-visual aids for loan to interested groups. If you have questions concerning any of these boating educa- you're learning. tion programs, contact the Boating Safety and Educa- tion staff. Better boating is their business.—CK

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