Chapter 6: Enjoying Water Sports With Your Boat
Sailing

It is always wise to give sailboats a lot of space. Sailboats are usually the stand-on vessel.

Sailing has its own risks that require special care to avoid.

• Small sailboats are prone to capsizing and swamping. Know how to right the sailboat if it capsizes, and carry a bailer on board.
• Falling overboard is common. For that reason, sailors always should wear a life jacket (PFD).
• Sailors should stay aware of the water temperature. Capsizing in the early spring, the fall, or the winter involves the risk of hypothermia.

Those interested in sailing should take a certified course from organizations like the American Sailing Association or the U.S. Sailing Association.

Here are some tips for safe sailing.

• Stay off the water during storms or periods of high winds.
• Carry a flashlight in case you remain on the water after dark. Shine the light on a sail to warn approaching vessels of your presence if you have no navigation lights or if another vessel does not see your navigation lights.
• Remember that sailboats with an engine must have the red, green, and white navigation lights.
• Remember that the mast can be a conductor for lightning. Be aware of masthead clearance when passing under power lines and bridges.