Keystone State's Official Boating Magazine

-Keystone State's Official boating Magazine

—

1,"•• ."..1•0

Ara: 4711 a _ ti) VIEWPOINT

On Wearing a PFD

The weather was nice even though the temperature was a bit on the chilly side. The water temperature was cold because the ice had just broken up, but the fish were biting. After all, it had been a long winter and it was time to get out of the house and toss a few plugs at the bass that had been waiting since last fall. It was a fine day—fine, that is, until something unexpected occurred. No one will ever know exactly what happened. One minute he was in the boat; the next, he was in the water fighting for his life. He lost. Twice already in this short season, two Pennsylvania boaters lost their gam- ble with nature. Early season accidents continue to plague our boaters. Some accidents were almost unavoidable. Many were not. A little common sense would have prevented many of these tragedies. Fully half of last year's fatalities could have been avoided if the victims had only worn life jackets. Not wanting to wear a life jacket on a hot July .day is understandable. Not wearing one on a chilly spring day is simply ridiculous. Who do you think you are going to impress? What do you hope to gain—a little convenience? More freedom of movement? If you think a life jacket is going to inconve- nience you, think for a moment how inconvenienced your family would be if you didn't come home. Last year, 17 boaters who didn't think it could happen to them didn't make it home. It doesn't have to be this way. Today's PFD manufacturers have a variety of devices on the market that suit every individual and all needs. You can find devices specifically for the angler, the skier, the paddler, the sailor and for just about every other boating activity. Recently the U.S. Coast Guard approved the use of a special device that combines the buoyancy of foam with the advantages of an inflatable. These devices are a little more expensive than the customary device, but they provide many advantages. If you want maximum freedom of movement and safetytchoose one of these devices. But you have to wear it to be legal. Boating is a fun sport but it can also be dangerous. We will never elimi- nate all accidents, but through prudent observance of a few basic safety rules, the majority of stupid accidents can be avoided. I never climb into an auto- mobile without ensuring that all my passengers are wearing a seat belt, the most basic driving safety equipment. I also never board a boat without my life jacket. If it is my boat, my passengers as well are fitted with the proper PFDs and they wear them in all but the most harmless situations. Wearing a life jacket is a little thing that goes a long way toward making boating safer for all. As a teenager, I lost my best friend to a boating accident when the homemade boat he was riding in capsized unexpectedly. He thought he could swim. Don't let the same thing happen to you. Wear your life jacket.

John Simmons Director Bureau of Boating Pennsylvania Fish Commission BOAT Spring 1988 Vol. 5 No. 2 Pennsylvania" Exploring Penn's Landing by Bill and Bert Schill William Penn arrived in Philadelphia aboard his ship Welcome in 1682. Pennsylvania Fish Commission The waterfront he knew has become a major seaport 4 Joan R. Plumly President Rules of the Road: Our Nautical Traffic Laws Jenkintown by Cheryl Kimerline Leon Reed Who has the right of way on the water? /0 Vice President Honesdale Kids Page by Steve Ulsh Marilyn A. Black Boaters have their own language. Whaddya think about that? 13 Cochranton David Coe State College Anticipate Danger, Survive an Accident by Art Michaels Leonard A. Green A victim's behavior during the first 10 to 15 seconds of an accident Carlisle often determines whether or not a person survives. Do you know what Ross J. Huhn to do? 14 Saltsburg Calvin J. Kern Check Your Safety Gear by Stephen Knox Whitehall Now is a good time to inspect your boat's safety gear and renew, T. T.(Ted) Metzger, Jr. upgrade, replace or add to it as necessary 15 Johnstown William J. Sabatose A Unique Antique Outboard Collection Brockport by Richard A. DeBlasio J. Wayne Yorks Pottstowner Bob Grubb's outboard motor collection spans 80 years and Benton is one of the largest collections in the United States 22 Boating Advisory Board Hybrid PFDs by Pete Grossetti Thaddeus Piotrowski A new kind Of life jacket, the type V. is available to Pennsylvanians Bloomsburg 25 Chairman Clayton Buchanan High-Water Paddling Hazards by Cliff Jacobson Pittsburgh You minimize the risks of spring paddling when you understand the Helen B. Lange dangers and have the skills to tame them 26 Sharpsville Judy Obert Don't Let the Towrope Become Your Noose Greentown by Bruce Kistler Edward J. Rogowski The towrope transmits the power of the boat to the water skier. Handle Ho//and with care 30 Staff Editor—Art Michaels The covers Art Director—Ted Walke This issue's front cover, photographed by Bill and Bert Schill, is an aerial Circulation—Eleanor Mutch view of the USS Olympia, Admiral Dewey's flagship in the battle of Manila Staff Assistant—Rose Ann Bartal during the Spanish-American War, and the World War II guppy-class Staff Assistant—Charlene Glisan submarine Becuna, berthed in the harbor at Philadelphia's Penn's Landing. For fascinating information on Boat Pennsylvania (ISSN0688-1561) is published cluarlortY by the Penn touring Penn's Landing by boat, please turn to sytvania Fish Commission. 3532 Walnut Street. Harrisburg, PA 17109. page 4. The tow rope in water skiing is a vital 1988. Nothing in this magazine may be reprinted without en written per- link, and you can find vital mission of the Pennsylvania Fish Cranii.ion. Subscription rates: one year. information on its care and feeding on page 30. Paddlers will want to check $4:single copies are $1.50 each. Second class postage is paid at Harrisburg. Pk POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Boat Pennsylvania Cow- out page 26 for practical information on high-water boating. If you're a taboo.Pennsylvania Fish Commission.P.0.8ox 1673. Harrisburg.PA 17105- 1673. For subscription and change of address, use above address. Please cruiser, be sure to read the articles beginning on pages 10 and 15, and for a alowthreemonthslor processingnewsubscriptions.renewalsand changes *tackiness Send all other correspondence to:The Editor.BoarPennsylvania. look at one of the largest outboard motor collections in the United States, P.O. Box 1673. Harrisburg. PA 17105.1673. Editorial queries and contribu- tions are welcomed, but must be acoornpanied by sett-addressed, stamped right here in Pottstown, PA, please turn to page 22. envelopes. Material accepted for publicabon is subject to Pennsylvania Fish This Commission standards and requirements for editing and revising. Submis- issue's back-cover paddler was photographed by R. Hamilton Smith. sions are handled With care. but the publisher assumes no responsibility lot the returner safety el submissions in his possession or in transit. The author's* views ideas and advice expressed n this magazine do not necessarily re- lied the opinion or official position 04 the Pennsylvania Fish Commission or its staff.

Exploring Penn's Landing by Bill and Bert Sehill

enn's Landing on the Delaware River was named in honor of William Penn, who arrived pin Philadelphia aboard his ship Welcome in 1682. When he and his Quakers ventured up the river they had already been preceded by the Swedes, who had formed friendships with the Indians in the area, thus paving the way for a friendly welcome for Penn. Were he to walk the streets today, he would find most of them laid out in the same grid pattern he envisioned, but his "greene countrie towne" has changed considerably. The waterfront, especially, has blos- somed into one of the major seaports of the world, a far cry from the port that was home to sailing ships bringing goods from Europe in the early 1700s. The 300-mile Delaware River rises in the southern part of New York state and flows south, offering good cruising water and pleasant scenery as far as Morris- ville, where the water becomes shallow and full of rocks. Below Morrisville, the river deepens again and is navigable to the Delaware Bay.

photos by the authors

Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 5 thlrOhl4/41.14. era,/ The river has undergone quite a change from years past when pollution nearly ru- ined shad fishing. The Delaware River Basin Commission was formed and after much hard work and environmental re- strictions, the water quality has improved immensely. Once again, there are suc- cessful shad runs while bass, muskies, white . . perch and catfish lure other anglers. 111i1TIM The landing, a 37-acre site between CU1CC C1111 Market and Lombard streets, has been re- MC11110111 jewel 1111=1111U ;gm il ferred to as the "crown of the city" 111111[1:01C `If and the continued conversion of piers is 1111:EGC=CE giEre cqiraccr ru:in CCCUINC1111 /15 cc. cccccc _7mm! helping to maintain that title. This section ICC' 1:: 111111 1111:CCCCCCC =CCM:CC:: EEEEEE." of the waterfront has undergone a dramatic HUUKCIII 1 1111 !FLIT 1::11:1111 change from old, unsightly docks to an 111C11111111 GC NUNN miccommo CCC .CC:1111 iii51111111 attractive setting for boaters visiting Phil- =CCU ESC= y."111111111 Cr[C11 11111 Nt," 1:::!:.: i 11115111111115 adelphia. There is a protected boat basin, CCCC1 11151 G111 '".7.1. .0 providing well-maintained slips, and launch =ICC U111 iiiiiit; "'1111111111! CCEG1 11111 ::::.•:ij: -C:1, :- ramps and several marinas are located 11111 1 MU nil Cfe- Minml 1111011 upriver as well as across the river on the 1111111 1 11E= 1151111111 1 ICC 1 Gr. YEEi! ill 11111:11111111( New Jersey shore. u .. I 11 1111 C *". lIIhIII 11 !gni • • " I Ill, • A. co- -cm' 4 .a1101:1 The brick-and-concrete-patterned walk II 1 GU .01cc I 41; .- e22;1 along the water is a pleasant area for stroll- 11 111 1 11 r 1 pigi -1111f 11111 EN 11 i ECEE CLTEEI ing. There are sections set aside where EC 11111 9" 11111111 111111 visitors can sit and watch a wide variety II INCE p •-• 111 • NI of boats cruising the river. Part of the land- r r ing has been dedicated as an international sculpture garden where there are statues to touch, or climb on, and each object is ..11M11 described in the language of its own coun- try, as well as in English. t'l ll I .1 A short distance downriver from Penn's

Landing is the Philadelphia Naval Base, .7..111S=111 N4 ,1 where the battleships New Jersey and Iowa 245 _ were built. While you can't tie up at the • Base to visit, you can cruise past to see the ships in port and on up the Schuyl- kill River, a tributary, as far as the Fair- mount Dam. Boat House Row (a series of rowing 1 clubs), the imposing Philadelphia Art Mu- seum and the Fairmount Waterworks - _ —7-11/ dominate the scene above the falls. The series of rowing clubs is owned by the city of Philadelphia and administered by the Fairmount Park Commission. The waterworks, an internationally known tourist attraction, is being restored, and the view of it from the river is reminiscent of a Grecian scene.

arther south is the reconstructed Fort FMifflin, where a Revolutionary War Looking over the port rail (far left) of the Gazela of Philadel- battle was fought in 1777. Long ne- phia at the British carrier HMS Illustrious. Illustrious was glected, the fort is presently being recon- built in Wallsend, England, launched by Princess Margaret in structed to bring it back as a living history 1978 and took part in the Falkland Islands campaign in 1982. museum. Recently, the Seabees rebuilt a The highrise buildings (above)form the backdrop for dockside bridge over a creek on the grounds, in activity at Penn's Landing. keeping with the original plans for au- thenticity. The garrison stages militia musters and

Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 7 • - ' I HIS IS THE ARLA AIN.ETW1 Y GAVF THE LIMES YOU HAY

skirmishes in Revolutionary War uni- forms, and volunteers don period cos- tumes while demonstrating crafts and con- ducting tours on Sunday afternoons, from March until December. Continuing downriver, near the en- of the Spanish-American War fleet, and they take part in parades. trance to the Delaware and Chesapeake the guppy-class World War II submarine Interesting additions to the complex are Canal, some 15 miles south of Pennsyl- Becuna, credited with destroying thou- small-craft exhibits and boatbuilding vania waters, there is another interesting sands of tons of Japanese naval and mer- classes, which are housed on a converted site for boatmen to visit, Pea Patch Island, chant ships. Becuna received four Battle floating barge, known as the "Workshop where pentagon-shaped Fort Delaware is Stars and a Presidential Unit Citation. Both on the Water." This attraction is part of located. Confederate soldiers were im- ships are open for visiting. the Philadelphia Maritime Museum. prisoned here, and because so many died, The 80-year-old lightship Barnegat and it was known as the Andersonville of the the 101-year-old three-masted Gazela of cross the river from Penn's Landing North. Picnicking and exploring is al- Philadelphia, built in Portugal in 1883, A is Camden, New Jersey, home of lowed on the island. also are moored at the landing. The Ga- the corporate headquarters of the Camp- Berthed at Penn's Landing are Admiral zela of Philadelphia acts as the Port of bell Soup Company and RCA. A multi- Dewey's flagship from the battle of Ma- Philadelphia's ambassador on tours around million dollar aquarium is planned for nila, the USS Olympia, the last survivor the world and joins the tall ships wherever Wiggins Park, directly facing the landing. 8 Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania Just south of Camden, at Gloucester, Madison) lived; and the Army-Navy Mu- Containing one of the largest concentra- the U.S. Coast Guard has a station from seum where the development of the U.S. tions of 18th-century architecture in the which the river is patrolled. The Coast Army and Navy from 1775-1800 is de- United States, any present-day reha- Guard also conducts free safety exami- picted. bilitation of homes is strictly controlled. nations and basic sailing courses at Penn's A Man Full of Trouble Tavern (1795) The quaint streets in this pleasant section Landing. has 18th-century furnishings and the City are brightened by old-fashioned "Frank- The opportunities available for visiting Tavern at Second Street, near Walnut, was lin lamps." skippers mooring at Penn's Landing are the meeting place for delegates to the First For shopping in this area there is an endless. America's most historic square and Second Continental congresses. Ran- ultra-modern, glass-enclosed shopping mile is located in Philadelphia. From the dolph, Lee, Washington and Harrison of mall, called New Market. Constructed landing, a short stroll on Dock Street, Virginia, Alsop of New York, Chase of around an 18th-century courtyard, it fea- around the beautiful marble Philadelphia Maryland and Rodney and Read of Del- tures boutiques and restaurants with a view Stock Exchange Building, leads to the aware, had their own table and dined there of the river. In contrast with the modem Visitor Center at 3rd and Chestnut Streets. daily. mall is Head House Square, built in 1745, The film "Independence," directed by John The National Park Service did a great where women shopped at the "shambles" Huston, is shown there. A free tour guide, amount of research to rebuild the tavern for their fresh produce. Today, artists and describing all of Philadelphia's historic sites, so that it appears the same today as it did craftsmen display their wares at shows can be obtained here. when it opened in 1773. The Subscription and flea markets with everything from Independence Hall is located on Chest- Room is where the newspapers and mag- clothes, paintings,jewelry and you-name- nut Street between 5th and 6th. Here the azines to which the tavern subscribed were it for sale at this open-air brick-columned Declaration of Independence and the Con- kept, and the Coffee Room was set aside marketplace. stitution were signed. Free tours are avail- so merchants could gather and discuss their After exploring all these historic areas able. Across Chestnut Street, on the mall ships and cargoes over a dish of coffee. and returning to the landing, the Port of in front of Independence Hall, is the glass- In the Long Room,on the second floor, History Museum on the promenade offers enclosed pavilion that houses the Lib- many elegant balls and soirees were held, many interesting programs and a display erty Bell. as well as the first Fourth of July celebra- of ancient ship models. George Washington, Thomas Jefferson tion in 1777. and Benjamin Franldin once walked the The waitresses wear colonial garb and hroughout the spring, summer and cobblestone streets that still create the his- the Queen Anne pattern of flatware fits fall there are German, Greek, Po- toric flavor of Philadelphia. The first Con- right in with the harpsichord music played lish, African, Hispanic, Caribbean and tinental Congress met in Carpenter's Hall while dining. seafood festivals, fairs and entertain- in 1744. At Franklin's Court, there is a All these exciting places are within easy ments, with ethnic food and customs to metal-frame outline of the home Franklin walking distance of the river. But for be enjoyed. Concerts and fireworks dis- had built while he was in Europe. A fas- a longer tour of the city, Cultural Loop plays are added attractions, and pleasant cinating marionette production, "Franklin buses can be boarded at the Visitor Center. evening hours can be spent strolling along on the World's Stage," is performed in You can get on and off anywhere along the well-lit waterfront. an underground museum, while a working the route. Ocean-going cruise ships are now sail- print shop, together with the B. Free ing from Penn's Landing and ships from Franklin Post Office, is open seven days estaurants are many and varied many nations, such as the HMS Illus- a week. Rthroughout the city, but you can trious, the British carrier that took part in have an excellent meal right at the landing the battle of the Falldand Islands, make few blocks away,at 239 Arch Street, on the Moshulu, the largest steel sailing calls here and welcome visitors aboard. A is the colonial house where Betsy ship in the world. Originally named Kurt, The Spirit ofPhiladelphia and the Rain- Ross lived when credited with making the a German vessel during World War II, it bow operate from Penn's Landing, offer- first American flag. In this same neigh- was seized by the United States and named ing sightseeing trips, moonlight cruises, borhood, on Second Street, between Arch Dreadnaught. However, Mrs. Woodrow dinner and dancing. and Race streets, is the oldest continuously Wilson renamed it Moshulu. The Amer- For additional information and a sched- occupied street in America—six-foot-wide ican Indian name Moshulu is believed to ule of events, contact the Communications Elfreth's Alley. Thirty houses, built be- mean "fearless." Division, Philadelphia Convention & Vis- tween 1713 and 1811, are privately owned While having a delicious seafood lunch itors Bureau, Three Penn Center Plaza, and occupied, but on the first Saturday in you can watch the traffic on the river, then Plidadephia, PA 19102. The phone num- June they are opened to the public. Num- stroll throughout the ship where many ar- ber is 215-636-3300. ber 126, however, is retained as a free tifacts and photographs are displayed, re- For visiting boatmen, there is a wealth museum and is open year-round. lating to early seafaring days. Dinners are of see-and-do activities on the river, Visiting boaters could spend many hours also served in the evenings. throughout the historic square mile and at all the important sites when Philadephia Not far from Penn's Landing,just above right at Penn's Landing. was the Revolutionary War capitol. The the Ben Franlclin Bridge, is the Riverfront reconstructed Graff House where Jeffer- Theater Restaurant, where you can tie up son lived when he wrote the Declaration your boat and enjoy dinner while watching Special thanksfor technical assistance with of Independence; the old City Hall, home a Broadway production. this article goes to Sally A. Corl, water- of the Supreme Court in 1791; the Todd Adjacent to Penn's Landing is a beau- ways conservation officer for Philadel- House where Dolly Payne Todd (later tifully restored area known as Society Hill. phia. Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 9 Rules of the Road: The family was approaching the cove and began arguing about where to eat lunch. Our Nautical Traffic Laws The father looked up and suddenly saw another boat coming directly at him. He turned the steering wheel hard to the right while the other boat operator simulta- neously cut sharply to the left. The two boats collided, throwing several people into the water. Nearby boaters saw the accident and rushed to help. They pulled the people out of the water and towed the disabled boats to shore. Fortunately, no one died, although there were several injuries and major damage to both boats. What would you have done in a similar situation? Do you know the rules of the road and who has the right of way? Even if you know the proper way to turn to avoid an accident, what happens when the other boater is unaware of the rules of the road? Collisions with vessels In 1987, there were 76 reported boating by Cheryl Kitnerline it out of the congested marina. They headed accidents in Pennsylvania. Of these ac- out into the main body of water where cidents, 26 involved collisions with other they could enjoy some cruising and water vessels, causing two deaths, 16 personal skiing before they stopped to eat lunch. injuries and over $71,219 in property During a beautiful mid-summer weekend At the other end of the lake, anglers damage. The average age and sex of the with temperatures in the high 70s, a gentle were leaving a popular fishing cove. In boat operator involved in a collision is a morning breeze blew, creating ripples on particular, three men had been fishing from 37-year-old male. Collisions most com- the lake's glassy surface. The parking lot their small boat since about 5 a.m. As the monly occurred on a Saturday afternoon at the ramp was almost full. Pleasure boat- day approached noon, wakes made by the (12 noon to 4 p.m.), Saturday evening ers impatiently lined up to launch their pleasure boaters cruising up and down the (9:30 p.m. to 12 p.m.) or Sunday after- craft. A family launched a boat and they lake lucked their boat. The fish had stopped noon(2 p.m. to 6 p.m.). Of the boat oper- hurriedly loaded it with safety equipment, biting. They were tired and hungry as they ators involved in collisions, 37 percent had skiing gear, food and beverages. They decided to pull up their anchor and head taken some type of formal boating educa- climbed in the boat and the father operated back to the ramp. tion course. Pennsylvania boating regulations require that the operator or owner complete a boating accident report if the accident results in the loss of life; loss of con- sciousness; medical treatment or disability in excess of 24 hours; or aggregate property damage in excess of $200. Rules of the road The rules of the road on the water, or the "Navigational Rules International— Inland," are requirements enacted by Congress to promote safe navigation. Op- erating a boat can be more difficult than driving a car. Sharing the waterways with other boaters can be not only chaotic but also dangerous if boat operators do not know or understand the laws governing 10 Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania the waterways. This can be confusing be- Zones of approach cause there are no traffic lane markers or CROSSING—MAINTAIN COURSE AND SPEED dividers, no traffic signals, no age requirements, no education requirements and no operator license. It is therefore up to each boat owner and operator to be responsible MEETING for the safe operation of his boat. The nautical rules of the road are the waterway's traffic laws and boat operators must comply. Operators are legally responsible for any damages caused by their boats CROSSING—DANGER! OTHER VESSEL HAS or wakes. RIGHT-OF-WAY The principle that everyone must understand is that both boats involved in an accident cannot be right. Yet most boating sailboats must yield to the other. When When overtaking or passing another boat, accident reports that I receive claim the one sailboat has the wind on the port (left) stay clear. The boat passed has the right other operator to be at fault. Only one boat side and the other has the wind on the of way if it holds its course and speed. can have the right of way. This boat is starboard (right) side the sailboat with the When crossing or approaching a boat referred to as the "privileged" or "stand- wind on the starboard side has the right at right angles, the boat to the right has on" vessel and proceeds without changing of way. The sailboat with the port wind the right of way. It must hold its course course or altering speed. The boat that must yield. and speed. The boat on the left should does not have the right of way is the "bur- When two sailboats have wind on the keep out of the way by slowing down, dened" or "give-way" vessel. This boat same side, the sailboat to the windward stopping or changing its course to allow must yield to the "privileged" or "stand- side (closest to the wind) should yield the the other boat to pass. on" vessel. The following rules of the right of way to the sailboat on the leeward In rivers or streams, the boat going road apply to all Commonwealth waters. side (farthest away from the wind). downstream has the right of way over the boat coming upstream. Nonpowered watercraft Powered watercraft Boats leaving a marina, ramp or dock Hand-propelled boats have the right of All watercraft under 65 feet operating should yield the right of way to boats ap- way over powerboats and sailboats. Sail- in a narrow channel should stay to the proaching the marina, ramp or dock. boats have the right of way over power- outside of the channel so that they don't Boats must operate in a counter-clock- boats with the following exception. Non- restrict the operations of commercial traffic wise direction on waterways not marked powered craft must yield to powerboats and other large craft that cannot navigate by well-defined channels, canals, rivers or when overtaking the powerboat, when the outside this narrow channel. Try to stay stream courses. powerboat is at anchor, or when the pow- away from these large vessels; you can Boats must maintain a slow, minimum erboat is fishing with nets, lines or trawls. maneuver more easily than they. Don't height swell speed (no-wake speed) when Powerboats should generally try to stay anchor in narrow channels where it might operating within 100 feet of the shoreline; away from sailboats and manually pow- restrict the traffic flow. Avoid pulling skiers floats; docks; launch ramps; swimmers; ered craft, and should not create a wake and crossing in front of these large vessels. downed skiers; anchored, moored, or that might cause a problem for these non- It may take some of these large commer- drifting boats; and in areas marked with powered craft. If a powerboat has to pass cial vessels up to one nautical mile to stop. slow-no-wake buoys. a nonpowered craft, try to pass behind the This past summer a 22-foot fiberglass boat Boats must be operated at a rate of speed craft so that the wake is not thrown over collided with a barge on the Delaware that will not endanger the life or property the bow of the smaller boat, possibly River. The boat operator died, a passenger of any person. Speed should be restricted swamping it or creating steering problems. was injured, and the boat was destroyed. to that which allows a boat to be stopped A sailboat using a motor is considered a When two boats meet head-on involv- within the visibly clear distance ahead. If powerboat and must follow the rules of ing the risk of collision, each boat should the visibility is impaired at night, in fog, the road for powerboats. alter its course to the starboard (right) so snow, mist or heavy rain, the boat should When sailboats are approaching each that each boat can pass on the port (left) be operated at a speed that allows it to other in risk of a collision, one of the side of each other. stop within half the distance of visibility. RULES OF THE ROAD (INLAND)

4orisso 411.1 4ssio mem:*

4corsarzellill docacmil r-> arlm:■.■.*

CROSSING OVERTAKING ONE SHORT BLAST ONE SHORT BLAST TWO SHORT BLASTS PRIVILEGED BOAT ON ONE BLAST RIGHT PASS TO RIGHT MAINTAIN COURSE MAINTAIN COURSE RIGHT PASS ASTERN TWO BLASTS LEFT

Spring 1988 Boa, Pennsylvania 11 If boat operators learn and obey these rules of the road, accidents can be avoided. Learn these rules well . . . they could save your life.

Cheryl Kimerline is special programs coordinator in the Commission Bureau of Boating. Publications for Motorboat Operators The Fish Commission has available many useful publications, guidesheets, and books for motorboat operators. Here are some that may interest readers. • Boat Trailering describes trailer selection, equipment, maintenance, launching and retrieving, safety information, and registration. This pamphlet also includes storage tips. • Personal Flotation Devices is a pamphlet that offers an overview on the different types of PFDs, how to use them, and how to select them. •Marine Fire Extinguishers, another pamphlet, describes the different kinds of devices available with other useful information. • Drinking, Boating and the Law is a pamphlet that provides answers to the most commonly asked questions concerning boating and alcohol as they pertain to Pennsylvania laws. The four pamphlets above are free, but with requests include a legal-sized stamped, self-addressed envelope. Here are more publications. •PennsylvaniaBasicBoating, recently revised and reprinted, is the Fish Commission's 84-page book on the rudiments and requirements for Com- monwealth boaters. Chapters include information on boat types, equipment, navigation, safety, emergency measures, and a skipper's duties. This book is available postage paid for $1. When two sailboats, like the that means a boat is coming from an ob- Make checks payable to Pennsylvania two Lake Erie boats above, have scured area such as a dock or around a Fish Commission. wind on the same side, the sail- bend. One short blast means, "I intend to •Summary of Boating Regulations boat to the windward side (clos- pass you on my port side." Two short 1988 is mailed with each new and est to the wind) should yield the blasts mean, "I intend to pass you on my renewed registration, but if you'd like right of way. starboard side." Three short blasts mean, an additional copy, it is available for "the engines are in reverse." Four or more free. blasts are a danger signal. Send requests for all items to: Sound signals Boating, Pennsylvania Fish Commis- Whistle or horn signals are sounded to Accident prevention sion, P.O. Box 1673, Harrisburg, PA indicate or acknowledge desire to maneu- Always use common sense when boat- 17105-1673. ver. One long blast is a warning signal ing and follow the appropriate boating laws. 12 Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania PAGE! KI/1 erS lkiMerkihe Cheryl Talk Like a Boater! by Boaters sometimes seem to have a language of Bow The front of the boat is called the bow. It is their own. To talk about boats you need to learn usually pointed and built to go up and over the some new words. Look at the list below and study waves. the drawings. Deck The "floor" of the boat. Hull The body of the boat. Freeboard The distance from the waterline to the Keel The backbone of the boat running down the gunwale is called freeboard. Too little freeboard centerline, bow to stern of the bottom of the hull. shows that the boat is overloaded. Stern The back of the boat is the stern. It is lower Gunwale (gun -nel) - The rim or upper edge of the than the bow. Powerboats have the engine fastened boat is the gunwale. It is sometimes spelled gunnel. to the stern. Waterline The place to which the water comes on the boat is the waterline. Hull Gunwale

Stern

Waterline

Boating Unscramble the boating words listed below. These scrambled words are parts of a boat, boating Word Scramble equipment and places to boat.

1. dlepda 8 rmates 2. aelk 9. epor 3. Iasi 10. Ilhu 4. revri 11. owb 5. roa 12. dnop 6. rtomo 13 ntres 7. Iparsnoe fntoloati ecvdei

2. OSL lo. prI\\ HOLD THIS SECTION UPSIDE DOWN FACING LI.N6L to A MIRROR TO READ THE ANSWERS. '3' 291A $3 2LL6S11,1 5' WS kkO(StIOU OGILICS 13' 2L611) t)SCAO\G bel2OLIS\ bouq VU21,,ILSLS 113010L II. PON\

Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 13 •If you fall in a lake, impoundment, or similar still, relatively calm waterway and Anticipate Danger, the water temperature is 70 degrees or higher, stay with your boat, unless you're going to be rescued immediately. Many small boats that are swamped can be Survive an Accident righted, if necessary, and refloated in calm, still water. You probably could get back in your boat, even if it's full of water. In this case, stay in the boat, stay low, and bail. • Cold-water immersion requires a different strategy in an emergency. In cold water, your goal is to get out of the water as quickly as possible. Hypothermia, the cold-water killer, can cause drowning, and this condition is a problem whenever the water temperature is below 70 degrees. Cold water circulating around your flailing arms and legs cools the blood. After a very short time, the natural reaction of the body to conserve heat is to cause your arm and leg muscles to contract, so soon after entering the water, you cannot maneuver to safety or hang onto a boat, throwable PFD,or anything—and that ap- plies no matter what your physical condition is or how good a swimmer you are. Unconsciousness and drowning follow quickly. That's why getting out of cold water is the priority. Thus, in cold water, if you can get back in your boat, do so and bail. • Moving water is another problem that requires different safety rules. If rapids, a low-head dam, or some other kind of danger aren't downstream, stay with your boat. Depending on how fast the current is, hold onto the side of your boat until you can stand up in a calm area, such as an eddy or backwater spot. If the current is swift, keep your feet up, pointing downstream, and ride downstream on your back, maneuvering with your hands to a a by Art Michaels Test your PFD in the safe confines of calm spot. Most boating accidents in which someone swimming pool or swimming area of a Never try to stand up in swift water. drowns, no matter where they occur, have waterway. In this way you can get to Accident analyses show that drowned vic- cannot two similarities: The victims ended up in know what your PFD can and tims, some of whom were physically fit, feels to the water suddenly and unexpectedly, and do, and you can learn how it competent swimmers, got their feet trapped the drownings occurred because in many wear one in the water. in rocks and debris in shallow water, thus cases the victims did not know the appro- pinning them underwater. priate immediate action to take. Here are practical steps to take so that • Generally speaking, stay with your boat Experts know that a victim's behavior you're ready for the unexpected. if you enter the water suddenly and un- during the first 10 to 15 seconds in the The most important part of prepared- expectedly. In this way you're a larger water frequently determines whether or not ness is to wear a PFD, not just have one target for rescuers, who can spot you and a person survives. So knowing the correct available. According to U.S. Coast Guard your boat easier than they can locate a immediate action is a valuable step in en- statistics and Fish Commission data, about lone victim in the water. Leave your boat suring that you survive a boating accident four out of five boating accident fatalities only if it makes you safer from immediate in which you end up in the water suddenly could have survived if the victims had been danger. when you didn't intend to be there. wearing PFDs. • 14 Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania Check Your Safety Equipment by Stephen Knox

Spring is the ideal time to inventory and examine your boat's safety equipment. Much of it goes unused through the year and can slowly deteriorate if not checked on a regular basis. Spring outfitting time gives you a chance to examine all your safety gear and repair, renew, upgrade or add as necessary. The Coast Guard publishes an excellent pamphlet entitled Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats. The pamphlet is distributed free by the Coast Guard Aux- iliary and other boating groups. It is an excellent source of information on safety equipment, both required by the Coast Guard and other items. To obtain a copy of Federal Require- mentsfor Recreational Boats, contact the nearest unit of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. You will find these units listed in the blue pages of the phone book under "Coast Guard" in the United States government heading. Your Summary of Boating Reg- ulations 1988 also contains detailed information on safety equipment. All Penn- sylvania boat registrants receive a copy with their registration materials. If you'd like a copy, contact Bureau of Boating, Pennsylvania Fish Commission, P.O. Box 1673, Harrisburg, PA 17105-1673. The required Coast Guard equipment is divided into two groups. The first is equipment that is approved by the Coast Guard. "Coast Guard approved equipment" has been determined to comply with Coast Guard specifications and regulations re- lating to materials, construction and performance. Approved equipment always carries an approval number and a label or imprint specifying that the item is Coast Guard approved.

The safety equipment (left) on this boat is right at hand in a convenient, accessible locker. Note that the extinguisher is stored fiat. Nozzles stored up- right can collect dirt and interfere with operation.

Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 15 Extinguishers blocked if you have a fire in your electrical when they are worn when the boat is under Fire extinguishers are probably the best- panel or in the galley. way or when you are not below decks or known approved equipment that pleasure Boats less than 26 feet long are required in an enclosed space. boats carry. Approved fire extinguishers by the Coast Guard to carry only one ex- In inspecting your life jackets, pay par- are classified by a letter and a number that tinguisher. Simply for improved access, I ticular attention if they are made of kapok. designates the size of the extinguisher and recommend that every boat, regardless of Kapok life jackets have a white, fuzzy the type of fire for which it is designated. size, carry at least two fire extinguishers. flotation material (similar in appearance to The letter indicates the type of fire: The safety of a gasoline-powered boat fiberglass insulation)encased in clear, heavy A Fires of combustible materials can be significantly improved with the in- plastic bags. If the bags have been punc- B Gasoline, oil and grease fires stallation of a fixed Halon fire extinguish- tured or torn, the life jacket should be C Electrical fires ing system in the engine compartment. If discarded. The Roman numeral indicates the size of your boat has permanent fuel tanks, and Test a kapok life jacket by squeezing the extinguisher. especially if it has an inboard engine, you the bags firmly. If you can feel the bag Coast Guard regulations require that fire should strongly consider installing a Halon slowly deflate, it has a leak. Replace extinguishers be carried on any boat with system. For most boats the installation is the PFD. an inboard engine, closed living spaces, not expensive and in most cases results in Personal flotation devices that use closed- permanently installed fuel tanks or closed a lower insurance premium. cell foam for flotation are virtually indes- compartments. Rowboats and canoes tructible. On these check the straps and without an inboard are not required to cany PFDs any associated hardware for rust and watch fire extinguishers. Runabouts that use Like fire extinguishers, personal flota- for tears in the shell. portable fuel tanks and whose hull is com- tion devices must be Coast Guard ap- If your boat is powered by a gasoline pletely open with no closed compart- proved. The approval tag indicates the type inboard, the engine must have a Coast ments are not required to carry a fire of PFD and the weight limitations, if any. Guard approved flame arrester fitted to the extinguisher. Types I, II and III differ in style, comfort carburetor. The flame arrester should plainly Any boat with an outboard engine should and the amount and distribution of flota- indicate a Coast Guard approved number. carry a fire extinguisher whether the Coast tion. All are designed to be worn. Type Check to be sure that your flame arrester Guard requires one or not. IV PFDs are throwable devices such as is still in place and that it is, in fact, Coast The most common fire extinguishers seen seat cushions and life rings. Type V de- Guard approved. on pleasure boats are the 5-pound or 10- vices are hybrids or special-purpose items, pound dry chemical fire extinguishers with such as work vests. The approval label Visual distress signals built-in pressure gauges. The pressure gauge lists any limitations. Recreational boats operating in inland gives a constant indication of the condition waters are not generally required to carry of the fire extinguisher. visual distress signals. Any boat operating The only routine maintenance required on coastal waters or on the Great Lakes is occasionally to give the bottle of the must carry Coast Guard approved visual fire extinguisher several sharp raps with a distress signals. I recommend distress sig- rubber faced hammer or other soft object. nals for any boat that ventures out of sight The dry chemical tends to cake and solid- of its home dock. ify. A couple of hard knocks once a year Boats operating in coastal waters (see keeps the powder from becoming solid. the Coast Guard pamphlet for definition Any fire extinguisher without a gauge of "coastal waters") must carry three ap- (such as carbon dioxide extinguishers) proved day signals and three approved night should be inspected by a qualified service signals or three approved combination day/ company every six months. Carbon diox- night signals. ide fire extinguishers are checked by weight. Inspect your boat's flares or other sig- The minimum weight is stamped on the naling devices for an expiration date and neck of the extinguisher. lithe actual weight for their general appearance. Do not dis- is less than the figure shown, it must be card expired devices. Merely add current recharged. flares to the kit. When examining your fire extinguish- Always check PfDs carefully. Make sure that your visual distress sig- ers check to see that the nozzles are clear nals carry a Coast Guard approval num- and unobstructed. When surveying boats, Boats less than 16 feet long must carry ber. The number marked on the device I occasionally see fire extinguishers whose one type I, II, III, IV or V PFD for each tells you exactly what type of approval the nozzles are plugged by insect nests, dirt, person aboard. Boats 16 feet and longer item carries. The number 160.058, for in- or mud. must be equipped with one type I, II, stance, designates a 15-minute floating As you check your fire extinguishers, III or V for each person aboard plus one orange smoke distress signal. The smoke think about the most likely locations for type IV. signal is approved only for day use. The a fire and whether your fire extinguishers Most boats in Pennsylvania carry type Coast Guard pamphlet Federal Require- would be accessible under those condi- II and type ifi PFDs. They are less bulky mentsfor Recreational Boats describes the tions. Most fires on small boats occur in and easier to stow and wear than the type various approval numbers. the electrical system or in the galley. Be I. Remember that type V hybrid PFDs Make sure that the visual distress sig- sure that your fire extinguishers are not count toward to legal requirement only nals on your boat are readily accessible. 16 Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania Anchor Like the first aid kit, the exact requirements for an anchor depend on the type of boating you do. Except for the smallest and lightest boats, every craft should carry at least one anchor. Anchors are your ultimate insurance policy when all else fails. Today's radios are Any boat operated in coastal or other reliable. Check the exposed water should carry two anchors. electrical and an- Most of the anchors I see are grossly in- tenna connections. adequate. Look at the charts that recom- Test your radio at mend styles and sizes for different boats the first opportu- and buy the correct style and size rec- nity. ommended. An anchor of the proper style can never be too large (unless it is so big that you cannot lift it). In your spring outfitting, examine the anchor rode carefully for cuts and chafe. If the rode has a length of chain next to the anchor, examine the chain and shac- Ides for rust. Shackles in the anchor sys- In an emergency they do you no good if Bilge blower, pump tem should be wired shut. they are at the bottom of a locker covered Check the operation of your bilge blower Any boat that depends on an engine for with a pile of junk. Choose an accessible during your spring outfitting. The blower propulsion should carry tools and spare stowage location that is protected from must operate properly and the hoses should parts. Look over your spare parts inven- rain and spray. be in good condition. With the blower tory and replenish anything that you used running, place your hand over the open during the last boating season. Lights end of the suction hose. The hose should Change the batteries in your flashlight The Coast Guard requires certain ad- collapse slightly and the tone of the blower as part of your spring outfitting. If you do ditional safety equipment that is not re- should change. If you do not see a change not carry a flashlight on board, add one quired to be Coast Guard approved. Nav- in the hose and hear a change in the blower, to your safety equipment. igation lights, for instance, are required it indicates that you have a large leak If your boat is large enough that a swim- equipment on boats operating at night, but somewhere in the blower hose. mer can't easily roll aboard, you should they are not required to be Coast Guard I recommend a number of other safety carry a swim ladder. Even if you never approved. Consult your Summary ofBoat- items that are not required by the Coast ski or swim, a swim ladder helps you re- ing Regulations 1988 for details on light- Guard. Perhaps the most important of these trieve someone who accidentally falls ing requirements on Pennsylvania waters. is an efficient bilge pump. In a small, open overboard. During your spring outfitting, check all boat, a bucket or other bailer would Take a look at the fittings on your swim your boat's running lights for proper op- suffice. ladder for rust. If you have a built-in swim eration. If your boat has a combination A larger boat that is left stored in the platform, examine the fasteners for cor- red and green bow light, check to be sure water should have electric bilge pumps rosion. that the lens is installed properly. I have with automatic switches. Boats left unat- If your boat is equipped with lifelines seen several boats on which the lenses had tended should have two pumps and a high- or pulpits, carefully examine the lifelines been reversed, showing green lights to port level alarm. Most recreational boats that and fastenings through the deck. and red lights to starboard. Some boaters sink do so at the pier with no one aboard. One last item of safety equipment is reassemble the lights incorrectly after Test your bilge pump by running fresh your CB or VHF radio. Check the elec- changing the bulbs. water in the bilge with a hose and ob- trical connections and the antenna con- Boats less than 12 meters (39.4 feet) serving the proper operation of the pump. nection to be sure that no corrosion has long are not required to carry a whistle, If your pump does not have an automatic occurred during the winter lay-up. At the horn or bell. The navigation rules, though, switch, you might want to install one now, first opportunity, test your radio to make do require these boats to sound signals even if your boat is stored on a trailer. sure that it is still working properly. under certain circumstances. It only makes A few hours spent examining your safety sense, then, to carry some means for mak- First aid kit equipment in the spring ensures that you ing an efficient signal, when necessary. Your should also carry a first aid kit. are ready to meet any emergency that may Most small recreational boats carry a The size and contents of the kit depend occur during the boating season. g hand-held air horn. Make sure you have on the exact nature of your boating. A 12- a spare air canister. foot john boat that is never far from the If your boat has an electric horn, be dock could do with band aids and a pair Stephen Knox is president ofKnox Marine sure you have a back-up on board, either of pliers for removing fish hooks. For the Consultants, Inc., in Portsmouth, Vir- an air horn or a whistle. Test your elec- Pennsylvania boater who trailers his boat ginia. He is a widely published marine trical horn during your spring checks and to coastal waters or to Lake Erie, a more surveyor, naval architect and marine en- inspect the connections. extensive first aid kit would be required. gineer. Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 17 Q. My boat was stolen and I have no- to test the boat on a local lake but was The Law tified the local police. Should you also afraid that it might be illegal to do so— be notified? Is it? A. Yes, if it is registered with us. The A. Exceeding the loading and horsepower and You loss, theft, transfer, destruction or aban- limits for a boat as provided on the boat's by Barry Pollock donment of a registered boat is required capacity plate issued for the boat is prima by law to be reported within 15 days. Also, facie evidence of negligent operation of if a stolen or lost boat is subsequently the boat. Q. I would like to moor rn boat at a recovered, it must be reported within 15 Fish Commission lake. How do I go days as well. Q. I am 15 and just learning to water about getting a permit? Q. I plan to vacation in Maryland this ski. My friend is also 15 and has his A. Mooring boats at designated areas is summer and my boat is registered in own boat. My problem is that he oc- me permitted from April I to November 30, Pennsylvania. Do I have to transfer my casionally gets careless while towing going provided that you have the boat registered registration to Maryland to use my boat? and a few times I thought I was for the current year. You should -check A. No. State and federal law provides for to collide with the dock when he made his with the regional headquarters because some reciprocity for up to 60 days, as long as his turn. When I complained about my re- of our lakes do not have designated moor- a boat is registered properly in the state driving, he told me that it was I ing areas, so seasonal mooring isn't al- of principal use. sponsibility to watch out for myself! lowed at these places. Regional head- don't ski with him anymore, but isn't quarters are listed on page 54 of the Q. I was involved in a minor boat ac- it his responsibffity to drive the boat Summary ofFishing Regulations and Laws cident this past season. There were no safely? 1988. other boats involved and damage to my A. First of all, I'm glad you don't ski with boat amounted to $250. Do I have to this individual anymore! I would suggest Q. I own a small aluminum boat that report this to you? you look to a well-established ski club and I use strictly for duck hunting. This boat A. Yes. Any time property damage ex- learn to ski the safe and proper way. Sec- is painted with a camouflage pattern. I ceeds $200 a report must be filed within ondly, it is the operator's duty to ensure registered it for the first time this year 10 days on form PFC 260. If an accident that his vessel is always operated in a safe and I have received my validated own- results in injuries that require medical manner. The law provides stiff penalties er's card and validation stickers. I would treatment beyond first aid or if serious in- and possible incarceration for the reckless like to paint my number on the boat juries or death occurs as a result of an and/or negligent operation of any water- with flat black paint. Is this legal? accident, the required report must be filed craft. A. No. The registration number must be within 48 hours and the local WCO must affixed to your vessel in such a manner be notified immediately. Barry Pollock is assistant regional super- that it is clearly visible and legible. For visor of the Commission Southeast Law more information, see page 5 of the Sum- Q. My wife and I rented a boat from a Enforcement Region. mary of Boating Regulations 1988. boat rental concession at a county lake and took our two children for a boat Q.I recently bought a boat from a friend ride. It was only after we had left the Chambers Named to and plan to use it on vacation soon. I dock that we realized the personal flo- Penn State have been to a local marine dealer three tation devices that the children were times this week, and in each case, I was wearing were too large—in fact, they Swimming Hall of Fame told to come back later because they were adult size. We returned to the rental were either too busy or the person who and asked for the proper size. We were Virgil Chambers, chief of the Fish does the registration paperwork was not told that they did not have any. Doesn't Commission Boating Safety Education available. Do all issuing agents work a rental service have some responsibil- Division, was recently elected to the Penn- this way? This is very frustrating! ity for issuing of proper safety equip- sylvania Swimming Hall of Fame at The A. While it is not unusual for an issuing ment? Pennsylvania State University. The Hall agent to have to Out someone off occa- A. Yes. It is strictly the responsibility of of Fame, established in 1968, recognizes sionally due to various reasons, three times a livery operator to ensure that every rented Pennsylvanians who have exhibited ex- in one week does seem unreasonable. I boat has the required safety equipment in traordinary service and achievement through would recommend that you contact the good condition. aquatics. manager and/or owner and bring this prob- Chambers's boating safety programs lem to his attention. If you still do not get Q. I have located a boat I would like to have become models for other state boat- satisfaction, contact your local WCO purchase, but the capacity plate pro- ing safety education programs, and he has (through the regional office) and lodge a vides for a maximum horsepower of 65. trained boating safety and rescue person- formal complaint. The boat has an 85hp engine. I wanted nel on the local, state, and national level.

18 Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 7, 14, 15, 21, 28, 30 Sailboat races, 18702). Pymatuning Reservoir(Pymatuning Yacht 19-21 Beaver County River Regatta, Calendar Club, Jamestown, PA 16134). Races Beaver River, Bridgewater, PA. through 9/25. 24-26 Sailboat races, Fairview Lake(Pike April 13-14 Rowing competition, Schuylkill County). Javelin Fleet 7, Gail Lowden, 9 Canoe race, Driftwood Branch, Sin- River, Philadelphia(Dad Vail Rowing As- 816 Morwood Road, Telford, PA 18969. nemahoning Creek (Cameron County sociation, Chevron Public Affairs, 3400 To have your organization's activities con- Canoe Club, P.O. Box 247, Emporium, Penrose Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19145. sidered to appear in Boat Pennsylvania's PA 15834). Phone: 215-339-7155). "Calendar" column, send the information 9, 10 Triathlon (third leg canoe race), 14 High school rowing races, Schuylkill to us at least three months before the date Penns Creek (Penns Valley Park and Rec- River (Upper Merion High School Crew, of the activity. For instance, if your group's itation Association, P.O. Box 395, Mill- Coach John Carey, 435 Crossfield Road, event occurs in August, we must have the heim, PA 16854). King of Prussia, PA. details in May. Send items to: The Editor, 9,23 Sailboat races, Gifford Pinchot State 15, 22, 29 Sailboat races, Quaker Lake Boat Pennsylvania, P.O. Box 1673, Har- Park Lake (Pinchot Sailing Club, Steven (Quaker Lake Yacht Racing Club, Box risburg, PA 17105-1673. C. Sheffer, 30 Bunker Lane, Etters, PA 1702, Binghamton, NY). Races through 17319). Races through 10/8. 9/18. 18 Pennsylvania Fish Commission 20-21 Rowing races, Stotesburg Cup Delaware Estuary meeting, Holiday Inn, State College, PA Regatta (crew races for high school stu- Book Available (for more details, contact the Commission dents, racing shells from singles to 8s), at 717-657-4522). Schuylkill River, Philadelphia (Schuylkill To Pennsylvania anglers, the Delaware 22-24 White water slalom kayak and Navy, 335 W. State Street, Media, PA Estuary is vital habitat for tasty weakfish, canoe races, Loyalsock Creek, Worlds End 19063. Phone: 215-565-4971). bluefish, flounder and more. Yet, do you State Park (Wildwater Boating Club of 28-30 Sailboat races, Lake Glendale realize how much the waterway has af- Central PA, Lock Drawer 179, Belle- (Lake Glendale Sailing Club, P.O. Box fected your life? The University of Del- fonte, PA 16823). 291, Clearfield, PA 16830). Races through aware Sea Grant College Program invites 29 Canoeing and kayaking instruction, 9/18. you to take a closer look at the estuary Ellwood City, PA (Western Pennsylvania through a new book designed for non- Whitewater School, Tim Ramsey, De- June scientists, The Delaware Estuary: Redis- partment of Physical Education, Slippery 5-11 National Safe Boating Week. covering a Forgotten Resource. Rock University, Slippery Rock, PA 6-12 National Fishing Week. In more than 140 pages, enhanced by 16057. Phone: 412-794-7806). 25-26 Poling National Championships historical and color photographs, maps, 30 Sailboat races, regattas, Lake Arthur (canoe races), Delaware River at New graphs and species identification guides, (Moraine Sailing Club, P.O. Box 692, Hope, PA (American Canoe Association, regional authors ranging from scientists Pittsburgh, PA 15230). Races and regattas 8580 Cinderbed Road, Suite 1900, New- and resource managers to folldorists and through 10/1. ington, VA 22122-1190. historians review the aquatic region ex- 30 Canoe race, Wiconisco Creek (Susan tending from Cape May and Cape Hen- Keller, Upper Dauphin County Branch July lopen to Trenton. YMCA, Box 257, Clearfield Street, Eliz- 16-17 35th Annual Port Indian Power- Topics include history, geology, mi- abethville, PA 17023). boat Regatta (hydroplane and ski-boat gratory shorebirds, tidal marshes, human races), Schuylkill River near Norristown, use, and management, with one chapter May PA (Port Indian Civic and Boating As- devoted to the estuary's fisheries resource. 1 Canoeing and kayaking instruction (see sociation, 66 West Indian Lane, Norris- Learn about the biology of local finfish April 29 entry). 1, 8, 15, 22, 28, 29 Sail- town, PA 19403. Phone: 215-666-9428.) and shellfish, and find out how an oily fish boat races, Susquehanna River at Long Sanctioned by the American Power Boat called menhaden once supported a boom- Level (Susquehanna Yacht Club, RD 1, Association. ing industry, how a woman netmaker Wrightsville, PA 17368). Races through 18 Pennsylvania Fish Commission practices her craft, and how oysters put 10/16. meeting, Harrisburg area (for more de- Bivalve, NJ on the map. 4 Canoe races, Schuylkill River (Berne tails, contact the Commission at 717-657- The Delaware Estuary: Rediscovering Bridge to Epler's Grove). Keystone Canoe 4522). a Forgotten Resource is a softbound, Club and Berks County Chapter American 29-31 Oakmont Regatta, Oakmont oversized publication, 13 inches high and Red Cross, 701 Centre Avenue, Reading, (Oakmont Yacht Club). 11 inches wide, and will be available this PA 19601. spring at a cost of $20 postpaid. 7 City Championship Collegiate Regatta August To receive your copy, send a check or (racing shells, 8s and 4s), Schuylkill River, 4-7 Three Rivers Regatta, Pittsburgh. money order payable to the University of Philadelphia (Bergen Cup Regatta, Jack 13 Canoe, kayak race, Francis Slocum Delaware to: Sea Grant Communications, Seitz, 1812 Webster Lane, Ambler, PA State Park Lake (Keystone State Games, 196 S. College Avenue, Newark, DE 19002). 31 S. Hancock Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 19716. Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 19 Building of Perry's Fleet Water Skier Hand Signals Now Available

The Building ofPerry's Fleet on Lake Erie, 1812-1813 has been recently re- 1. issued by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) in time 5. for the Commission's restoration project of the United States brig Niagara in Erie. 4. s 6. The 72-page illustrated publication, now in its fourth printing, has remained one 1. Thumb Up: Speed up the boat. driver). Circle motion — arms over- of the most complete studies on the ac- 2. Thumb Down:Slow down the boat. head. Then point in desired direction. 3. Cut Motor/Stop: Immediately stop 5. Return to Dock: Pat on the head. tual concept-through-construction his- boat. Slashing motion over neck (also 6. OK: Speed and boat path OK. Or, tory of the fleet. used by driver or observer). signals understood. In the summer of 1813, the victory by 4. Turn: Turn the boat (also used by 7. I'm OK: Skier OK after falling. the United States Navy over the British Cp,no, 05 Tne Arnexcan Water S. Assocutron in the Battle of Lake Erie was a deci- sive event for the control of the west in the War of 1812. The victory also Permits for USCG Auxiliary Opens helped restore America's wartime morale Private Markers, Aids Toll-Free Number in and spawned a new interest in mari- Harrisburg time strength. The number of floats, ski ramps, slalom This book depicts not only the courses, aids, markers, and other floating Information is available concerning lo- achievements of naval arms under the objects on Pennsylvania waters is increas- cation and times for public education clasges command of Oliver Hazard Perry, but ing, but it is illegal to place these devices and free courtesy marine examinations the extraordinary enterprise that built and unless the Fish Commission authorizes their (CME) throughout the area by way of a armed the victorious fleet in the remote use and placement. new toll-free phone number. frontier village of Erie, Pennsylvania. In accordance with current boating reg- U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary public ed- Author Max Rosenberg deals with the ulations, requests to establish private ucation classes are held at various loca- causes of the War of 1812; the fleet con- markers or aids on Commonwealth water- tions and times throughout the state and struction authorization; the Lake Erie ways by clubs, individuals, state agencies, surrounding area. The classes are taught frontier; and the men who were the municipalities and other groups must be by qualified auxiliarists and cover the basic builders of the fleet, such as Daniel Dob- made in writing on Form PFC-277. Writ- information all boaters should learn. bins, Ebenezer Crosby, Henry Eckford, ten requests must be made to the water- The CME is a check of a boat's state Noah Brown and Perry. ways conservation officer of the district in and federal safety requirements plus ad- The Building of Perry's Fleet costs which the marker or buoy is to be placed, ditional items of safety required by the $4.95 plus 6 percent sales tax. To order through the nearest Fish Commission re- Auxiliary. Vessels passing the examina- this publication, write: Publication Sales gional office. tion are awarded the Coast Guard Auxil- Program, Friends of the PHMC, P.O. Float permits (Form PFC-277) may be iary Seal of Safety. Box 11466, Dept. SC, Harrisburg, PA obtained by writing to: Fred Menke, Aids- The toll-free number for finding out the 17108-1466, or call 717-787-2407. Please to-Navigation Coordinator, P.O. Box 1673, location and times ofclasses and free CMEs include $1 handling and postage for Harrisburg, PA 17105-1673. The phone in the Commonwealth and surrounding area each book. number is 717-657-4540. is 1-800-AUX-USCG.

be dangerous. Under normal conditions on access roads. Each year people are Small-Boat Sailing you should stay with your craft. This lets electrocuted when a mast comes in contact rescuers see you more easily. with a high-tension line. Safety Suggestions • Few people realize the danger involved • To avoid congestion at the launch site, in cold-water immersion. Cold water can sailboats should be rigged away from the • Always wear a PFD: a "knock down" numb the extremities and limit the reflexes ramp area, but be sure there is adequate can occur without warning. almost immediately. If you are not wear- clearance with power lines or other over- • Keep an alert lookout. ing a PFD, you may not have the oppor- head obstructions between the rigging area • Consider the water and weather before tunity or the ability to put it on in cold and the launch ramp. taking sail. water. • Sail defensively. Be sure you know the • If you capsize and cannot right the craft, • Beware of the dangerous overhead power rules of the road, and be sure you know leaving the boat to strike out for shore can lines in the vicinity of launch ramps and who has the right of way. 20 Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania Battery Dead? Alcohol and Boating: Before You Pull-Start that the facts Engine .. . Dedicated to the sound conservation of our aquatic resources, the protection and management of the state's diversified fisheries, and to the ideals of Alcohol abuse is a subject that until On some outboard motors with elec- safe boating and optimum boating opportunities. recently was not discussed in boating cir- tric starting, the battery acts as a voltage EXECUTIVE OFFICE cles. It is now recognized that the con- limiter. Some boat owners who discover Edward R. Miller, P.E.. Executive Director nection between alcohol and boating ac- that their batteries are dead disconnect Dennis T. Guise, Chief Counsel cidents is strong. The Coast Guard estimates the battery from the system and then pull- BUREAU OF that as many as 50 percent of all accidents start the engine. They end up with more ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES are alcohol-related. In Pennsylvania, about damage to 717-657-4522 their boats than just dead bat- Allison J. Mayhew, Director 50 percent of all reported accidents also teries. Vacant. Personnel have alcohol involvement. In Maryland in The battery is actually part of an entire Glen Reed. Federal Aid 1986, some 77 percent of all accidents circuit. If an engine doesn't contain its Mary Stine. Fishing Licenses with fatalities were alcohol-related. own voltage limiter, pull-starting it when BUREAU OF FISHERIES The Coast Guard has conducted tests to it is not connected to the battery has 814-359-5100 Delano Graff, Director see how the fatigue of normal boating af- been found to burn out engine instru- Vincent Mudrak, Division of Research fects the boat operator. Factors included mentation. Vacant, Division of Fisheries Environmental motion, vibration, engine noise, the sun, Services Richard A. Snyder, Division of Fisheries wind and spray. It was discovered that Management under normal conditions with no alcohol Backfalk Dennis Ricker, Division of Trout Production Shyrl Hood, Division of Warnmuerl the operator suffers serious impairment in Coobwiter Fish Production coordination and reaction time because of The Fish Commission invites readers to fatigue. write letters to the editor for publication BUREAU OF PROPERTY AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT These tests determined that the marine consideration in this space. If you have an 814359-5100 environment alone causes impaired judg- opinion on Angler content, a question on James Young, P.E., Director ment and reactions just as alcohol does. conservation, fishing, boating, or Vacant. Division of Construction & on the Maintenance Services If the boat operator has been drinking, this Fish Commission, or a helpful idea, send K. Ronald Weis. R.A.. Division of marine environment factor compounds the correspondence to: The Editor, Pennsyl- Engineering & Technical Services Eugene 0. Banker. P.E.. Division of effect of the alcohol. Drinking even small vania Angler, P.O. Box 1673, Harrisburg, Property Services amounts of alcohol while operating a boat PA 17105-1673. Letters are edited for is hazardous. clarity and space considerations. BUREAU OF LAW ENFORCEMENT 717-657-4542 Edward W. Manhan, Director

BUREAU OF BOATING 717-657-4540 John Simmons, Director Virgil Chambers. Division of Boating Safety Education Andrew Mulch, Division of Boat Registration

BUREAU OF EDUCATION AND INFORMATION 717-657-4518 Cheryl K. Riley. Director [any Shaffer, Publications Stephen B. Ulsh, Education C. Blake Weirich, Education Dave Wolf. Media Relations An Michaels, Magazines Ted Walkc. Graphic Design

BOAT PENNSYLVANIA EDITORIAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE Virgil Chambers, Chairman (Chief. Boating Safety Education Section. Bureau of Boating. Pennsylvania Fish Commission) Cheryl Kimerline (Special Programs Coordinator, Bureau ofBoating) The Commission Division of Boat Registrations staff processes all boat registration Charles Walbridge (canoeing) materials. The staff is (left to right) Linda Helms, Cindy Snyder, Manila Kreamer, John M. Comish 11 (water skiing) Gus Neuss, Jr. (sailing) Marylou Little, Debbie Nicholas and division chief Andrew Mutch. Last January Tom Reinke (cruising) over 272,000 renewal notices were mailed. John Wiedigcr(DER Bureau of State Parks) Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 21 A Unique Antique by Richard A. DeBlasi°

eeing Bob Grubb's antique out- Today, Bob's collection has grown to the years. Typical forerunners of modem board motor collection is a unique about 250 viable motors and a consider- outboards such as five-cylinder engines, Sexperience. Walking among the able quantity of motor parts, of which he radial engines, tractor lower units, under- motors, you can almost begin to hear the offers to others interested in sharing his water engines, air-drive units and folding chatter and smell the aura of engine ex- hobby. motors all make up part of Bob's collec- haust they once made as they struggled to tion. Names like Caille, Motorgo, the push some rowboat captain and his family The "Waterman" Wizard, the Challenger and others have across a lake or up a river on a Sunday The oldest outboard in the collection is vanished from the market long ago, but afternoon long ago. a 1907 "Waterman"(the 1906 Waterman today they remain tangible pieces of his- Located in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, is documented to be the first outboard mar- tory in Pottstown. Bob's collection spans almost 80 years keted in the United States and only about and is one of the largest in the United 30 were produced). The Waterman is a Technological marvels States. In fact, it's hard to find a finer two-horsepower motor that can propel a The most enjoyment Bob gets from his collection of"eggbeaters" anywhere else. rowboat about 7-8 miles per hour. Bob's personal museum is his eagerness to ex- To see so many vintage outboard motors recent acquisition of a propeller makes the plain the individual historical significance in one place is truly an exciting view, and 80-year-old outboard completely original, of his technological marvels in chrono- their condition is remarkable. Each out- but it needs restoration. logical order of achievements. He never board has been meticulously restored to The classiest outboards in the collection forgets to tell the story about the first hand- its original condition, many of them by are ones manufactured between 1910 and cranked magneto incorporated into row- Grubbs and his mechanical talents. The 1925. "The Brass Era," as Bob named boat motors by a man called "Jump Spark outboards are displayed on specially built it, had manufacturers using massive Miller." Bob calls his early inventions racks—rows and rows from ceiling to floor amounts of brass for the underwater com- "detachable rowboat motors," because that of showroom-conditioned propelling ma- ponents from the transom brackets to the is how they were advertised by the man- chines, most appearing as if they were propellers. The brass on Bob's numerous ufacturers at that time. For anyone having built yesterday. outboards from this era glistens like a row a sincere interest in outboards, Bob will of trumpets in an orchestra. A map of the gladly spend an entire day professing a grain in the wooden steering handle is thorough education about their back- clearly magnified by thick coats of lacquer ground. "Why have a hobby if one cannot Bob Grubb's collection that Bob uses to preserve the wood com- share it with others and teach them about spans almost 80 years, ponents. Bob is particularly fond of the it?" the collector declares as he dusts off "Brass Era" not only for the beauty of his 1920 "Amphion," one of only two and it is one of the larg- the machines during this period, but also known to exist today. est outboard motor for the engineering and craftmanship that Quality is the major characteristic of went into them. Bob's outboard collection. Asked if he collections in the Another of Bob's favorites includes a would trade his collection for any others, 1915 "Aero Thrust." A two-bladed pro- the collector said he would not, empha- United States. peller fan used air to propel a boat, much sizing that, "as with all collectors, every- like today's hydroplanes. one feels he has the best." About half of A 1927 "Gopher" is suspended from Bob's outboards run today. Time is his As proprietor of a marine supply shop, the ceiling at another end of the collection. biggest constraint. His goal is to get each Bob recalls how, in 1971, he found three This interesting outboard was a required one to run someday, and is planning to antique motors that had been "dry docked" project for mechanical engineering projects devote most of his retirement time to his in his shop for some years. He became at the University of Minnesota. The stu- hobby. enchanted with the history and progressive dents were required to build it from scratch To meet his goal, Bob laboriously tink- changes that had taken place with out- before they could graduate. After the project ers with his outboards, being careful not boards over a period of time, so he felt was completed, the students were per- to substitute any part for another if it is the desire to become part of it. In a short mitted to keep it. not an original. However, on rare occa- time, he restored each of them to running The smallest outboard in Bob's collec- sions, and only after he is certain that a condition. One of those models was a 1941 tion is a 1.2 horsepower Clark Troller (circa part no longer exists following an exten- Mercury that was the same model his father 1938). Weighing only 10 pounds, it is a sive search, Bob has a part fabricated. sold when he started the business. Since rare motor of which Bob claims two. This was the case during the restoration that time, Bob has had the desire to own Overall, the collection contains out- of his 1910 Waterman. Bob could not lo- one of every outboard he considers having boards from over 160 different manufac- cate an original fuel tank cylinder that would any significance. turers that have produced them through have completed the project. After waiting 22 Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania Outboard Collection

to complete, however. Bob will extract each component with a surgeon's preci- sion, mark it, and draw a diagram to make sure he keeps adequate records on the location of each part in the outboard. Once all the parts are removed, it will take time to clean and examine each one. Next, Bob will rebuild the entire engine back into its framework and test its mechanical running condition. A test and trial period will begin until Bob succeeds in rebuilding the engine into the best running condition he can. But don't expect miracles! Even when some of these early engines were new, they did not perform with nearly the re- liability that today's outboards do and Bob's 1907 Waterman was one of the earliest outboards produced. When he does get it to start, it will kick, buck, sputter, smoke and make more noise than a chainsaw in a cave, but it will move a boat. After the mechanical restoration is completed, Bob will begin a cosmetic restoration on the outboard. This time each

The collection contains outboards from over 160 different manufacturers that have produced them through the years.

Above are some of the engines in the one year to restore completely one or two collection. Bob Grubb takes about a rowboat motors that are in reasonably good external part will be removed, stripped, year to restore completely one or two condition. When available, old manuals refinished and rebuilt to its original con- engines that are in reasonably good assist Bob in the restoration project, and dition. As a final accent to the restoration, condition. some manufacturers still have some man- Bob will place new decals on the outboard uals in stock. If a manual cannot be found, where the original model or brand name the only blueprint Bob may have to work wore off long ago. When complete, the for some time, he made a deal with an- from is a picture from an advertisement 1907 Waterman will be a prize in Bob's other collector. Bob's part of the agree- in a magazine. He also keeps in contact collection. ment was to restore one of the other fel- with a network of other collectors who Although the "Brass Era" outboards low's outboards. In return, Bob was help one another find parts for restoration are among his oldest, the collector admits rewarded with a new fabricated fuel tank projects. that the oldest is not necessarily the most made from brass, as was the original. But sought-after. Some collectors look for out- most of the time he delays a restoration A special project boards from the 1950s or 1960s, for the project until he finds the part he needs. The 1907 Waterman project that awaits same reason automobiles of a particular At a leisurely pace, it takes Bob about him will take much longer than one year year appear to people who collect auto- Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 23 paid for it, and how much time and money make a pretty darn good outboard." he put into it. He also records any specific Considering such a technological ma- problems he may have had with the en- chine as the outboard, Bob is somewhat gine. In this way, before he takes an en- disappointed that not one outboard is on gine out on the water, he can pull the file display at the Smithsonian Museum in sheet on that particular outboard and pre- Washington, D.C. Bob and other collec- pare for any specific problems he previ- tors have contacted the museum concern- ously might have had with it. ing this issue and would like to see at least one outboard displayed at the Smithsonian "Wet-Meet" someday. Bob enjoys seeing his motors come to Complimenting his outboard collection life, so a few times during the summer is an interesting collection of spark plugs months he bolts one of his outboards to that Bob has accumulated during his res- his 12i-foot, 1959 mahogany runabout and torations. He transformed a mechanical exercises it on the Schuylkill River. One Timex showcase, which once displayed day a year Bob invites fellow members of elegant timepieces on revolving mirrored The Antique Outboard Motor Club to bring shelves, to reflect the changes that have their collections to Pennsylvania for a"Wet - taken place with outboard spark plugs. Meet," where those who share Bob's same Some old,some new,the spark plugs, too, interest get together for a day of boat- have gone through a kind of evolutionary ing and to exchange ideas and possibly transformation. Bob can explain the his- outboards. tory and progress of each spark plug as There is also some competition each tirelessly as he speaks about his outboards. year for the fastest, oldest, and the best Bob stresses that modern outboards are restored at the meet and people from as built to endure decades of use, and with far away as Florida have responded to Bob's proper care there is no reason why they mobiles. "In a specialized hobby such as invitations. The annual meet attracts the should not. To ensure maximum life from rowboat motors," Bob explains,"one must attention of curious observers on the sho- an outboard, Bob recommends these be sincere because historically, monetary res of the Schuylkill, who soon drift over guidelines to outboarders: Follow the gen- values have not escalated rapidly." Some to join the meet and learn something about eral maintenance instructions in your man- collectors believe antique outboards are the antiques. ual. Pay particular attention to lubrication, somewhat of an investment and that they Bob and his wife are also active partic- winterizing, and the cooling system. It is can sell them at a great profit someday, ipants in the club's annual convention, a good idea to grease your propeller shaft. but Bob says that collecting antique row- where his most memorable was listening This will prevent corrosion from cement- boat motors is not a get-rich-quick scheme. to a lecture by guest speaker Ralph Ev- ing it to your prop. Valuable information Bob likes to encourage the type of col- inrude, son of the pioneer who started Ev- can also be found in "how-to" articles. lecting that lets the collector take an old inrude Motors. Through the conventions, Bob Grubbs, the unique antique out- Bob has become recognized nationally as board collector in Pottstown, is making a a leading expert on outboards and the his- contribution to an area of American history behind them. It is not unusual for tory that might otherwise go unnoticed un- Quality is the major outboard manufacturers to contact him for til it vanishes. If there is an "Outboard information regarding special projects. Hall Of Fame," possibly it's Bob's re- characteristic of Bob's As an expert in outboard technology, markable collection. outboard collection. Bob insists that the customer has and always will benefit from the technological changes that are incorporated into the mo- Did you know that. tors. There is constant pressure by com- • An outboard produced in 1914-1915 outboard out on the river and have some petitors to increase performance, reliabil- by Koban was advertised as "absolutely fun with it. He does sell his outboards at ity, and market competition. Bob is vibrationless"? times because he acquires more than he confident that the mechanics of outboards •In 1915 a Motorow engine could turn has room for and his decision to weed will remain the same as it has since its 360-degrees to put a boat in reverse? some out is not an easy one. development. •In 1931 Caille made an outboard that When he finds an engine at a flea mar- He goes on to say that there is an effort could change the pitch of the propeller at ket at a bargain price, Bob purchases it by the Japanese to penetrate our markets "the twist of a handle" . . . while the regardless of its significance. He goes on with their outboard motors, but he sees no boat was moving? to explain that he likes to "rescue" old concern in the near future for a market •In 1939 and until 1954 Johnson/Evin- outboards from scrap dumps and at the takeover. Bob explains, "American man- rude abandoned the use of electric-start same time feels he is helping the area of ufacturers in this field have made more engines? antique outboarding. progress in this technology than with any •The 1972 Wankel Rotary Engine was Deblaw

When he acquires an engine, Bob rec- other manufactured good. Our manufac- supposed to change the outboard industry? A ords it in a diary according to brand, where turers set fuel efficiency and engine reli- The motor was made in Germany and the and when he purchased it, how much he ability as their goals years ago, and they body was made in Italy.—RAD Achaid 24 Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania brids because like hybrid flowers and plants The Coast Guard strongly recommends that they combine two desirable traits. They you not use the hybrid until you realize contain a mix of two kinds of flotation— its capabilities and limitations. the inherent buoyancy of a flotation ma- In addition, hybrid PFDs are not rec- Hybrid terial and an inflatable chamber. ommended for non-swimmers unless the There's one big "if— regarding the hy- PFDs are inflated enough to keep the brid. If you want the device to count to- wearers afloat. Children should also not ward meeting the Coast Guard operator use the hybrid. In fact, there will be no requirements for carrying PFDs, you must hybrids approved for use by children (per- wear it while the boat is under way or sons weighing less than 90 pounds). This PF whenever you are not below decks or in is because children, in an emergency sit- an enclosed space. The Coast Guard per- uation, may not be able to inflate a hybrid mits boaters to use hybrids as an alter- quickly and effectively. native to the other wearable types cur- rently available (types I, II and III PFDs). In-water testing There are three basic reasons for the Here, straight from the folks at Under- Coast Guard's conditional approval of hy- writers Laboratories, are the steps to take brid devices. First, should you be in an to test your hybrid PFD: accident and end up in the water, the • Put the hybrid on and get in water deep chances of the PFD helping your survival enough to stand with your head above the are greatly diminished if it is not worn. surface. Secondly, anyone using the hybrid needs • Tilt your head back and see if the hy- to know that the device has a limited amount brid will float you (without inflation) on of inherent buoyancy. Lastly, the hybrid your back or just slightly back of vertical. PFD requires plenty of care and attention. • Your mouth should be above water. If Attractive styling is only part of the so- it is, note the effect of inhaling and ex- lution in getting boaters to wear PFDs. haling on your position in the water. Then The ultimate goal of a hybrid PFD is to inflate the device and note how well it save lives. performs when it's inflated. Coast Guard statistics indicate that most • If your mouth is not above the surface drownings could be prevented if boaters when the hybrid is deflated, orally inflate would wear their PFDs while boating. the device until it floats you with your When a boating accident occurs, the oc- mouth out of water. Note the level of in- cupants often find themselves in the water flation that's required (UL recommends with little or no warning. They simply keeping the device inflated at this level by Pete Grossetti don't have the time to locate a PFD, let when boating). alone put it on and adjust it. This is where The Coast Guard and the Fish Com- Manufacturers of personal flotation de- the hybrid comes into play. The aim of mission want you to make an informed vices (PFDs) have jumped on the fashion the hybrid PFD is to provide boaters a choice about PFDs. That's why each hy- bandwagon by making their wares more lifesaving device that will be worn during brid PFD is supplied with an information appealing to the eye. More importantly, normal boating activities. pamphlet and an owner's manual (which though, PFDs are now more appealing may be combined at the manufacturer's to wear. The highlight of this newest Not for everyone option in one booklet). The pamphlet gives line of lifesaving devices is the type V Underwriters Laboratories(UL) helped some basic information to buyers on the Hybrid PFD. the Coast Guard develop the hybrid PFD performance characteristics of various types Made of lightweight fabrics that are less category through an extensive testing pro- of Coast Guard approved PFDs. The PFD bulky than traditional PFDs, the new de- gram. UL's tests indicate that the 7f pounds seller is required by Coast Guard regula- vices are colorful, stylish alternatives in of inherent flotation in an uninflated hy- tions to make the information pamphlet lifesaving equipment. They are called hybrid will, in calm water, float about 70 available to the consumer before purchase. percent of the boating public high enough Finally, our statistics show that most in the water to allow the wearer to breathe boating accidents take place on calm waters and see easily. In fact, the hybrid will on sunny summer afternoons. But those bring more than 95 percent of adults to same statistics show that in 80 percent of the surface without effort, although some fatalities resulting from these accidents, inflation may be required for people who the victims were not wearing PFDs. The have higher body density. Coast Guard and the Fish Commission urge An uninflated hybrid PFD is not for you to wear your PFD—whether it's the everyone. You may have to inflate it to new hybrid or one of the more familiar float. There is only one way to find out if models. Choose the proper type PFD for you'll float without inflating the device. your boat and activity and wear it! Try it! However, do your testing in shallow water before venturing out in a boat. Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 25 Apples, v--,_- 't‘....16•061" , ;1674 14,„ 7. - r"--1 7 Ift„ 4/aw 7-,4116.11' ,rogromirs.11111 e ro• — / •••• TD•wotisb.- . - „ * )164"- TITNT - 411‘ '1011/17alr 71/011 .,1 61,Pa' 1.6 - .0111•Pf" ..•• mmo -etas& wit- — ii - Tor, .L.TT-MPZ, Amp- - r..- -.-.Ar-• - - ^ -..-- . - -...... - . ..,7%._,::Z L...,:- am...... „ .. _ _ .....r _ gear-mil% .."".116.i.- ""..t.__ - '".4.1 4.... :..- ..,dagMl II. 10. AR. ..., al-_41-4--i-W • --'-iiiiiiill .., "" ---. ... -- ...._ ^, ,., . , .:•': ''''` A..Z'. 400"74L-7.-7 :'Sang,. --•...... •. _r"lit'.-.'r'. '' '- 1..1 ''. .1.1/7.0,4.-' 4r,... .., - .. . •411111r j.-giiiii611.1" ..... Olr... =-- .a.awerg ., ,..— .amo...... vion...... '''''. ...B- o, .. •%;. i.. , Tmo.. $,L

„a, - - • -

rhWier •-=7- PaddliAg H by Cliff Jacobson -

On the whole, those who don't canoe have pretty strong_ _45. A hazy drizik-compounded the (langers—perfect feelings about these craft. They'll concede that canoes are _ hypothermia weaiher_. But the kids were well-prepared: All tine for flittering about park ponds, and as a toy for a lake --- wore wool or p()I propylene long johns and WOol outer cabin. But they are dangerous, especially in the maelstrom wear, topped with water-tight rainsuits and life vests. Each of a wind-tossed lake or the high water or a swift river. )oungster carried two changes of clothing, double-bagged Talk flows into the night as you re-live the horrifying in plastic and secured in packsacks. In my boat was the tales: There's one about the two college boys who drowned rescue gear-100 feet of nylon rope, a half-dozen in the spring rush of their local river; the pair who earabiners, a nylon pulley and some mountaineering sling perished from hypothermia when their canoe upset on the material. With my first-aid kit, I could handle anything

Lt•TIONT opener of fishing season; and oh yes, remember that crazy from a major break to a scratched cornea. couple who paddled over a dam? I stood at the river's edge that cold, gray morning and Nlature-minded folk avoid canoes, especially in spring stared at the two-foot high waves that punctuated the w hen the rivers run high and cold. April waters are for river. Uprooted trees were everywhere. I guessed the tbols no matter what kind of craft they power! current speed at 10 miles an hour. Quietly, I gathered the Balderdash! My canoe touches water almost every crew and went over the safety precautions: Life jackets month of the year. Even in the dead of winter, I can tight, no loose belts or strings, painters (end lines) coiled usually locate an ice-free opening somewhere. Cold spring and secured under the loops of shock cord on the decks. waters are to be respected, for sure. But the risks are "lAx)se ropes are a hazard in a capsize," I admonished. minimal as you understand the dangers and have the "They can stream out and wrap around your legs!" paddling skills to tame them. Here are some abbreviated "Notice the knee pads glued into the canoes," I rules for surviving the high-water hazards of early spring. continued. "kneel, don't sit. Your center of gravity will be lower and you'll enjoy better control of the craft." Learn to backferry Originally, I'd planned to let the kids practice eddy Early last April I guided a group of teenagers down an turns and peel-outs, but the high water prohibited it. ordinarily easy but challenging Class II river. The air "We'll practice backferrying in the big waves today." I temperature that day stood at 52 degrees; the water was expounded.

P 11am/too Smell *raw ws. -

--- -

0.41

All morning we had the river to ourselves and the kids midst. A case of beer and mound of personal gear gained confidence as they ferried from right shore to left, weighted the craft to dangerously low freeboard. Just sometimes surfing on the upstream faces of the big waves. ahead was a tight bend. Huge waves and debris Then around noon, a red canoe with two men aboard who from the spring floodwater piled up on the outside were not wearing life jackets drifted calmly through our curve. Ferry right," I commanded. "Herd 'em over." The men in the red canoe gaped you'll swamp for sure. Better to slow the at our near broadside approach to the cur- canoe's speed by backpaddling or quarter rent and then called loudly: "You kids the waves at a slight angle (a tricky pro- need help You're s'posed to take 'em right cedure for beginners). You can also lighten down the middle!" No comment. We con- the ends—you should lighten both ends, tinued on course. not just the bow—by moving paddlers The red canoe poured on the power and closer amidships. If waves are very large, disappeared around the bend while we fer- do "all the above"—and stay on the ried to shore on the inside curve. When "edges" to keep from being swamped. the crew had assembled in the safety of the eddy, we broke for lunch, then after- Sweepers (strainers) wards "studied" the obstacle that lay ahead. A sweeper is a downed tree that wholly "Look there," I pointed. "See how or partially blocks the flow of a river. Small those waves are piling up? Good thing rivers, especially, tend to be choked with you guys can ferry or you'd be part of these dangerous obstacles right after the that brush!" first good spring rain. Sweepers(also called "Hey Cliff, what's that red thing over strainers) are the most dangerous of all there?" called Bruce. I squinted through river obstacles because their submerged my bifocals. Sure enough, a red canoe was branches can trap and hold a capsized wrapped solidly around a "sweeper" on swimmer or canoe. Even a very gentle the far shore. There was no sign of current is strong enough to pin the most paddlers. powerful swimmer in the branches. Curiously, we ferried around the bend Be particularly wary of sweepers that and viewed the story. The canoe had been block outside curves, because the river's swept into the downed tree where it had current will tend to force your canoe into swamped and jack-knifed. It was locked them. If you capsize going into one of in solid: We could only hope the two men these brush piles and are trapped in the made it safely to shore. debris, escape—and rescue—may prove Several hours later we reached our "take- impossible! out" and were greeted by a flush-faced The key to surviving an encounter with state trooper who asked if we'd seen a a sweeper is to avoid it! Hence, the im- canoe upstream. "Yeah," I answered, portance of the backferry. If, despite your "about 10 miles back." efforts, your canoe is carried into the "Those guys were scared white when branches of a fallen tree, keep calm, lean I picked them up. Said a bunch of inex- downstream and don't grab anything until perienced kids were on the river and were the canoe comes to a complete stop. At sure to wipe out. Suggested I get here fast, this point, worrying over the canoe is fu- maybe get a jet boat and go upstream tile. Save yourself(if you can) by climbing to help." onto the tree trunk. "No sweat," said Bruce, our group If you capsize and are sucked into the The onset of the condition occurs when clown. "We know how to backferry!" branches, try to go through head first so the body temperature drops below about "Backwhat?" asked the officer. "For- you can clear a path with your hands. 95 degrees. Chilling spreads throughout get it," said Bruce. "We know how to Under these conditions, any loose-fitting the body, accompanied by clumsiness, paddle!" clothing (including your life jacket) may slurred speech and loss ofjudgment. Coma Nearly all spring canoe accidents are get snared by branches and keep you from and death may occur within a few hours the result of not knowing how to ferry a surfacing. So shed what you can, if if the body is not re-warmed. canoe sideways across a strong current. you can! Most of the spring "drownings" you It's easy enough, though it does require Most of the spring drownings on rivers read about are usually the result of im- practice. Just turn the tail of your canoe are the result of encounters with fallen mersion hypothermia. The victim goes into toward the direction you want to go, and trees. Learn to backferry around bends shock-paralysis from being plunged into then backpaddle! The craft will scoot si- and you'll have no trouble with these ob- the icy water, and then drowns afterward. deways across the river, avoiding the dan- stacles. Most hypothennics are unaware of what ger that lies directly ahead. is happening to them and will maintain an For a complete treatment of this canoe- Hypothermia "I'm okay!" attitude to the bitter end. It's saving (if not lifesaving!) procedure, see In the old days, they called it "exposure up to the other members of the party to my article, "Playing the Currents," in the sickness." Now, the technical term is observe the signals and take appropriate September/October 1985 issue of Boat "hypothermia." But the cause and symp- action. Treatment consists of removing wet Pennsylvania. toms are the same. Hypothermia is a low- clothes and re-warming the victim. Classic ering of the body's core temperature, procedure is to sandwich the victim be- Running through big waves brought about by capsizing in icy water tween two people in a sleeping bag. Ra- The high water of spring usually inten- (immersion hypothermia) or from slow diant heat from a fire works well, proving sifies river waves. Run 'em full bore and chilling. it is applied slowly, and evenly. Intense

28 Spring 1988 Boot Pennsylvania for shore immediately. Listen to your body and act accordingly. If you're thrown clear of the canoe and are forced to swim, get on your back,feet held high to prevent somersaulting in the current. Your life jacket will keep you afloat. Use your feet and paddle to fend off rocks that might otherwise bruise your body. Swim ashore by backstroking (backferrying).

Cliff Jacobson's latest book is Camping Secrets: A lexicon of camping tips only the experts know, published by ICS Books. He is also the author of Canoeing Wild Rivers and The New Wilderness Canoe- ing & Camping.

Publications for Paddlers The Fish Commission has available several pamphlets and guidesheets for canoeists and kayakers. Each provides immediately useful information and safety facts. Now is a good time to prepare for a season of safe boating with the vital information these publications contain. • Canoe Safety is a pamphlet that spells out seven rules of safety with other practical ideas. •Survival in Cold Water describes the dangers of cold water and ill-prepared boaters. It also explains what to do in cold water if you are suddenly and unexpectedly immersed, and how best to be prepared. First aid for cold- heat may bum the sensitive skin of a hy- Self-rescue water victims is also detailed. pothermic and/or induce shock. Everyone wants to be a hero and rescue •Personal Flotation Devices is a Hypothermia is physically and emo- someone. Fact is, in most canoe upsets, pamphlet that describes the PFDs tionally draining. Victims should be al- you'll be rescuing yourself. Here are the available, and how and when you need lowed to rest for a full day following the guidelines. them. experience. Capsizing in rapids: Don't attempt to These three pamphlets are free, but Your best protection against hypother- stand in water that is more than knee-deep. with requests include a business-sized mia is prevention. Select reliable rain gear A foot may become wedged between rocks stamped, self-addressed envelope. and choose clothing that insulates well when and held there while the river mows you Contact: Boating, Pennsylvania Fish wet. Wool is the traditional fabric, though down. "Entrapment" is a major cause of Commission, P.O. Box 1673, Har- polypropylene and pile work as well. Wet drowning on fast-moving rivers. risburg, PA 17105-1673. cotton literally whisks heat from the skin As soon as you capsize get to the up- •Paddle Pennsylvania is a 36-page and should never be worn in tricky weather. stream end of your canoe and hang on. guide for Keystone State canoeists. It Blue jeans are the worst thing you can Keep your feet high, away from the river features section-by-section detailed wear on a canoe trip. bottom and try to work the boat ashore descriptions and maps of some 18 Finally, keep the calories flowing while (paddle with one hand and kick with your Pennsylvania waterways. It is avail- you paddle. Constant nibbling on high en- feet) using a modified backferry tech- able for $1 each postpaid. Make checks ergy foods keeps the temperature of your nique. Stay with the canoe unless doing payable to Pennsylvania Fish Com- "furnace" high. If you get chilled, stop so will endanger your life. Because an mission, and send orders with pay- immediately and change clothes. A lot of unexpected swim in ice-cold water does ment to: Paddle Pennsylvania, P.O. people have died from hypothermia with endanger you life—that is, if you're not Box 1673, Harrisburg, PA 17105- a full pack of dry clothes at hand that wearing a wet-suit—your best bet may be 1673. they'd saved for camp or the drive home. to leave the swamped craft and strike out Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 29 Don't Let the Towrope Become Your Noose

by Bruce Kistler Always be conscious of the position of "Hold it!" the driver may think you said your towrope, even when getting ready to "Hit it!" and advance the throttle. ski. When you are in the water preparing When you water ski your towrope is in- for a deepwater start, hold the rope as if Inspection dispensable. It's the vital link that trans- the boat were going to accelerate unex- Inspect your towrope before you ski. mits the power of the boat to your ski pectedly at any moment, because it just Check especially for fraying at the attach- handle. Because such awesome power is might. The driver might not be paying ment loop (where the rope is attached to concentrated in the rope, you must know attention or he or someone else in the boat the towing pylon or other attachment on how to use it safely. might accidentally hit the throttle. the boat) and where the bridle ropes go Expert water skiers know that the tow- Get in the habit of keeping the rope through the handle. Discontinue using that rope is a tool and they practice con- between you and the boat, not looped over rope if you detect fraying or if any knots stantly to learn how to use it effectively. the back of your neck or coiled around or splices have slipped. They know also that the towrope must be your arms or legs. When you tell the driver Having to unsnarl a rat's nest of tangled respected. Some of the most gruesome to take up slack, guide the rope loosely towrope in the water increases the danger water ski injuries are caused by skiers be- with both hands. Tell the driver to slow of having an accident. Make sure that the coming entangled in their towropes. You down. if he takes up the slack too fast. rope is always coiled neatly with the loose can avoid accidents of this sort if you take Remember that the proper command to end tied around the coils to keep the rope a few simple precautions. stop the boat is "Neutral!" If you shout from becoming tangled when it is stowed.

30 Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania what it's designed for. Never grab the han- forget that you and the boat are attached! dle bridle (the "Y" in front of the handle) When you are finished skiing, don't let or the main part of the rope. Plastic ski the rope dangle behind the boat if it is not rope is thick and slippery and trying to going to be used immediately. Even though hold on by the rope alone is an open in- most ski rope material floats, it is all but vitation to disaster. impossible for other boats to see a towrope Keep the handle square to the boat. That in the water. Although no other boat should is, don't twist it so that it is in line with operate close enough to you to snag your the rope. This greatly increases the pos- ski rope, you can't always rely on the sibility of having the rope loop around a other guy. Keep the rope near the boat finger. The better ski handles have plastic when someone is preparing to ski. Oth- or rubber stiffeners where the bridle ropes erwise reel it in. enter the handle to help keep the handle Several brands of towrope quick-re- square and prevent finger-grabbing loops lease devices are on the market. These are from forming. used primarily by advanced trick water Another word of advice: Do not wear skiers who perform highly advanced "re- rings when water skiing. If your ring catches verse toehold" tricks that involve a higher on the rope or handle and you fall, you risk of becoming entangled in the towrope will lose or severely injure your ring fin- in a fall. A quick release may provide an ger. It has happened. extra measure of safety for slow-speed Do not wrap the towrope around any skiing, such as trick skiing and kneeboard- part of your body or place the handle over ing, but use of such a device is generally your head or put your free foot or leg not recommended for higher-speed types through the handle bridle. Although trick of skiing like slalom or jumping. skiers use various types of "wraps" to Quick releases are not foolproof. They prepare for certain advanced tricks, in all are manually operated and are only as good but one of these the rope is not actually as the person serving as the "release man." wrapped around the body. Instead, it is an Without an expert operator a quick release arm or leg that "wraps" around the body. provides only a false sense of security. The one exception is the "funny wrap," but unless the skier is foolhardy, he uses Recoil a towrope quick release, discussed below, Tournament-level towboat drivers oc- when using this very advanced technique. casionally encounter another type of to- In addition, for toehold tricks, tricks in wrope hazard when pulling strong skiers which the skier is towed by the free foot, through the slalom course on a very short a special toehold attachment is used that rope (generally 28 feet or shorter). A ski comes off in the event of a fall. rope recoils (snaps back like a rubber band) when a skier falls. Normally this isn't a Skiing double problem. However, when a strong skier You must pay particular attention to to- falls at the height of his pull on a very wrope safety when skiing double. Don't short rope, the handle can sometimes try to cross under or jump over your part- slingshot into the boat. Some tournament ner's rope. Also, never attempt to pick up towboat manufacturers have resorted to or ski over the loose towrope of another equipping their boats with various sorts of The safest procedure for getting ready skier who has fallen. This is one of the nets in major tournaments to keep the driv- is for you to put on your skis next to the most dangerous things you can do on skis. ers, judges and timers from being beaned boat and then have the observer gently As a loose handle is pulled through the with flying handles or from having the place the coils of rope in the water and water, it can whip around like an angry rope accidentally loop over the throttle hand you the handle. Tossing the rope snake. Stay away from it. Better yet, drop handle. overboard in a jumble increases the like- your own handle as soon as the other skier Fortunately, there is an easier solution. lihood that knots will form. falls and stay with the fallen skier. This Skiers have discovered that a 5- to 6-foot is a good practice because the driver does length of foam pipe insulation (the kind Dock start not have to maintain skiing speed during used on air conditioners and water heaters) When making a dock start, take care the return. placed over the towrope near the pylon that the rope does not snag any part of the Be aware of the rope when making a tends to dampen the recoil sufficiently to dock as the boat is taking up slack. Also, shore landing. Serious accidents have been prevent the handle from landing in or near do not pay out the rope with your hands. caused when skiers have swung out to the boat. Instead, coil the rope neatly and place the drop off and the rope has passed over nearby Learn to use the towrope as a tool to coils in the water in front of you before occupied docks or floats. As strange as it improve your skiing performance, but al- giving the driver the command to idle sounds, skiers have also been hurt by at- ways respect its power. Those who fail to forward. tempting to ski on the other side of pilings do so sooner or later learn When skiing, hold the handle. That's and bridge abutments from the boat. Don't a tragic lesson.

Spring 1988 Boat Pennsylvania 31