As everyone gets into the sailing season there are a couple of items that have surfaced that need attention. Locks are not being properly scrambled, gates and the launch ramp are not locked, lights are being left on and the overhead door in the dock house is not being locked. A good practice when you open a lock is to immediately turn the combo to all zeros. This way all that needs to be done is lock the lock. As you plan to leave the club scan the area and see if you are the last one to leave. If you believe that you are the last one to leave please check all the locks to ensure the locks are secure. As you leave an area make sure light are turned off. With electric rates rising we need to do all we can to conserve electricity. Thanks for your cooperation.
Safety is always important. This is a good time to walk through a basic checklist of safety hardware to ensure you at least have the safety basics. If you are unsure of what the basics are here is a list of:
- Throwable cushion
- Fire extinguisher
- PFD’s for everyone on board
- Anchor with adequate chain and rhode
- Throwable line
- Tow line
- First aid kit
- Knife
- Other good to have items
- Marine radio
- Distress flares (Required on Federal water with a current date)
- Paddles in case of engine failure
- Life sling to recover man over board
- Whistle or other noise maker
As a reminder if you use any of the club boats including the pontoon or picket boat everyone onboard is required to wear a PFD. If you take out one one of the club boats there are throwable cushions in the cabinet by the side door of he dock house. On the south wall of the dock house you will find paddles and manual bilge pumps. Also on the south wall is line that can be used for throwing or towing.
The box on the deck of the pontoon boat contains safety gear for emergencies. There are PFD’s, line, mylar thermal blankets, first aid kit in the box and a fire extinguisher at the helm. The crane on deck can be used to lift personnel out of the water. When providing assistance remember to keep people on the windward side of the boat and place the engine in neutral to decrease the possibility of striking anyone in the water with the prop.
Stay safe and see you on the water.
As a reminder Saturday June 8th from 1:00 PM until 3:00 PM we are trying to get as many boats as possible on the water for a demonstration in support of the Delaware County Jeep club as they have their Jeep show. Funds raised by the show will go to support Delaware K-9 program.
