June 20, 2011
Coast Guard Debating New Safety Lanyard Regulations
The Coast Guard is currently holding an open debate on whether changes need to be made to regulations requiring safety lanyards on certain recreational boats. They are considering a mandate which would require an engine cutoff switch to be a standard safety feature on all boats under 26 feet and whether the operators of those vessels would be required to use cutoff the switches or “lanyards”. It’s no secret that we as a company are huge proponent of safety lanyards and support a mandate by the Coast Guard to require them as a standard feature on all boats. If you would like to give the USCG your feedback click here and submit your thoughts.... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 02:51 PM
May 26, 2011
2011 National Safe Boating Week
The time has been flying by! Culminating this weekend, National Safe Boating week began last Saturday and for the second year features the Ready Set Inflate Campaign. The National Safe Boating Council, Canadian Safe Boating Council, and Coast Guard Auxiliary are inviting everyone to participate their local event which will provide education on lifejackets and the comfort of the inflatable version. The events will teach boaters how to inspect, re-arm and re-pack their inflatable lifejackets. Click here to find an event in your area.... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 02:56 PM
March 31, 2011
Fueling Safety
The Coast Guard recently released this list of tips for safely fueling your boat. These are good reminders for everyone to keep in mind as the boating season is beginning in many areas. • Frequently check fuel lines and connections for leaks and worn spots. • Be sure all electrical devices are turned off, as well as the engine. • When gasoline passes through the hose, it generates static electricity. If that ‘sparks’ with the fumes at the fuel tank fill point, an explosion can occur. To dissipate the static electricity, keep the metal nozzle of the hose in contact with the metal part of the refueling opening. • Try not to spill any fuel during the process. • When fueling is complete, securely fasten the gas cap. • If you have inboard or inboard/outboard engines run the bilge blower. Run the fan for at least five minutes. (It’s a good idea to run this blower before ANY engine start,... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 03:22 PM
January 21, 2010
How Old is too Old for Outdated Flares?
I recently read an interesting article in Boat U.S. Magazine which focused on flares. Many of us carry a set of expired flares onboard in addition to new flares which makes you wonder to yourself ,“are these too old?” or “will these out-of-date flares fire off properly if I need to use them?” In conjunction with the Coast Guard the article’s author set off a series of tests to determine exactly how old is too old. After firing off new flares to use as a bench mark, they fired off a series of flares with various expiration dates. The oldest dated back to 1985! After being evaluated for both height and the amount of light emitted, the group determined that flares which are out of date about four years are worth keeping aboard in addition to a new set.... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 02:53 PM | Comments (0)
December 29, 2009
Propeller Safety
Your prop is arguably one of the most important parts of your engine. However as with many things, if it is not used properly your propeller can potentially present danger. To wrap up my series on propellers, here are a few important safety tips to keep in mind: 1. Your propeller should be inspected on an annual basis, every 100 hours, and after any impact strike. Issues that require further attention should be dealt with immediately. 2. Avoid operating the boat in areas where loose clothing, debris, fishing line or nets are located. This presents a danger if someone were to become entangled in the prop and pulled towards it. 3. Kill switch lanyards and wireless versions such as Autotether, are designed to help prevent propeller strikes, so as usual I will stress the importance of always wearing one! 4. Avoid operating the prop in conditions that may cause damage such as mud, surface penetrating operation or other entanglements. This... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 10:22 AM | Comments (0)
May 17, 2009
An Ethanol Increase??
I read a very unsettling article recently published by Boating World Magazine. According to the article, a coalition of 54 ethanol manufacturers have formed a group called Growth Energy and are petitioning the EPA to increase the maximum ethanol level to 15%. I described in detail during a previous posting the damage that 10% ethanol has on fuel systems. A 5% increase not only will have a severe impact on marine engines and other non-road vehicles, but raises safety concerns for motor vehicles as well. The article points out that no testing has been done to determine whether it will impact air quality and whether it is even safe for consumers to use. Please support the NMMA in their effort to make boaters’ concerns heard by clicking here to email the EPA directly.... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 09:33 AM | Comments (0)
April 22, 2009
Funding for Local Law Enforcement
Our friends at The Police Chief Magazine sent us some great information on funding for us to share with our customers. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, which includes the Edward R. Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Formula and the Bryne-JAG Competitive Program, are available for state and local agencies to take advantage of. The Edward R. Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Formula offers a total of $2 billion. To check out the funds allocated to jurisdictions in your state, go to http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/recoveryJAG/recoveryallocations.html. The Byrne-JAG Competitive Program offers a total of $225 million. These funds may be used by local and state law enforcement for things such as training, personnel, supplies, and equipment. You can apply directly to the Department of Justice. The deadlines for these grants are approaching fast (5/18), so if your department is interested check out http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/recoveryJAG/JAGrecoveryLocal.pdf. Applications must be submitted to the US Department of Justice.... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 10:14 AM | Comments (0)
October 23, 2008
Russian Roulette
Not wearing a life jacket is like playing “Russian Roulette” with your life. I'm still amazed by how many people still don't wear lifejackets when on the water. I just read how last weekend the Coast Guard and other rescuers searched the waters about 100 feet from a breakwater in southern California for a man who fell overboard from a small boat. The man was not wearing a lifejacket. Unfortunately stories like this are not that uncommon, boaters and their passengers unexpectedly find themselves in the water all too often. Some survive and unfortunately some do not. This man did not survive. Not wearing a life jacket while boating is like playing “Russian Roulette.” That's why all Coast Guard personnel are required to wear lifejackets at all times when on vessels under 65' and why all of us at RIBCRAFT always wear lifejackets whenever out sea trialing a RIB. Though we can all swim, not wearing a lifejacket is just... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 12:23 PM | Comments (2)
May 19, 2008
National Safe Boating Week
In honor of National Safe Boating Week, May 17th-24th, all of us at RIBCRAFT remind you to exercise caution while boating and to wear a lifejacket any time you’re on the water. Visit the National Safe Boating Week website for more information on how safe boating can improve your time on the water.... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 09:12 AM | Comments (0)
April 30, 2008
Neighborhood Watch
Here's something I read this morning that I thought was worthy of passing along. We all should keep our eyes out for anything unusual on the water. As boating season approaches, the Bush Administration wants to enlist the country's 80 million recreational boaters to help reduce the chances that a small boat could deliver a nuclear or radiological bomb somewhere along the country's 95,000 miles of coastline and inland waterways. According to an April 23 intelligence assessment obtained by The Associated Press, "The use of a small boat as a weapon is likely to remain al Qaeda's weapon of choice in the maritime environment, given its ease in arming and deploying, low cost, and record of success." While the United States has so far been spared this type of strike in its own waters, terrorists have used small boats to attack in other countries. The millions of humble dinghies, fishing boats and smaller cargo ships that ply America's waterways are... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 10:04 AM | Comments (2)
April 16, 2008
MOB – Man Overboard
Part of safe boating, regardless if you're the marine patrol, fire department, or even a recreational boater, is to always be careful on the water and take the necessary steps to be ready for anything that may happen. Today, I want to talk about things to think about should someone fall overboard and how to get a person back in the boat. Obviously, the easiest and best way to deal with a Man Overboard (MOB) situation is to never have someone fall into the water in the first place. As skipper, to prevent a MOB you must be sure that everyone onboard is seated and knows how important it is to always hold on even at slow speeds, you must drive the RIB in such a way that minimizes sudden unexpected movements and accidents, and that you never venture out in conditions that aren't appropriate for your boat or those on board. Surprisingly, most MOBs occur at slow speeds when... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 01:01 PM | Comments (2)
February 22, 2008
PFD: Personal Flotation Device – A Must!
Most of us I'm sure associate wearing a PFD with being uncomfortable, dorky, a novice boater, or someone who can't swim. They're not fashionable, they're hot to wear in the summer or in warmer climates, and they just get in the way. For these reasons, I think many boaters don't wear them. Unfortunately, the majority of boating fatalities and drownings could have been prevented by simply wearing a PFD. We all think we're great swimmers, excellent boaters, or that it could never happen to us – but the truth is it can and we should be ready. Whether you're a marine patrol officer, sailing coach, or a recreational boater, there are some great life jacket options out there that are comfortable, subtle (no more orange horseshoe) and non restrictive, and even fashionable. Some are no bigger than a small pouch that you wear like a belt, others are inflatable that stay deflated in a small harness that you wear around... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 11:03 AM | Comments (3)
November 29, 2007
Rough Water Driving – Beam and Following Seas
Picking up where we left off in my last posting, if you take too much of an angle to the waves and/or find yourself perpendicular to them, then you are operating in a "Beam Sea". In a beam sea, you can actually operate at a pretty fast speed. Just be absolutely certain to keep an eye out for breaking waves and either increasing or decreasing your speed accordingly steering for clearer water behind the breaking wave. Breaking waves can be very dangerous and can easily capsize a boat if the operator is not paying attention. If you find yourself unable to escape a breaking wave you have a couple options. You can turn into and ride it much as I described for a "Head Sea" or turn away from it and run in front of it. Doing this seems to make sense, but it could also be much more dangerous unless you can be sure you can out run the... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 07:30 PM | Comments (5)
November 26, 2007
Rough Water Driving
When driving in rough water, the most important thing to do is to match your speed and direction to the water conditions through adjusting your throttle and steering accordingly. Though it may be a blast to keep the throttle on and wave jump, eventually you and the boat will get tired of it. Just as important however, if the prop is continuously leaving and re-entering the water the efficiency of the boat to make quick headway is greatly reduced. There are several conditions that operators need to know how to handle. The first is driving upwind to weather or in a "Head Sea". To do this it's important to first be sure your trim is adjusted all the way down in order to keep the bow down. This will minimize the amount of lift off the wave but also promote the best entry through the water which promotes optimal performance of the V hull to cut through the water. Long... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 10:49 AM | Comments (5)
November 21, 2007
Why do RIBs handle rough water so well?
The combination of the deep V hull and the inflatable tube give a RIB its outstanding sea-keeping abilities. The tube acts like a giant shock absorber absorbing most of the impact forces thus reducing the stress on the boat and crew. Additionally, the tube contributes to a far more stable ride than other types of boats by significantly reducing any lateral movement. This allows a RIB to carry a deeper V hull than hardsided boats which contributes to a smoother ride in rough conditions. Not only does a RIB handle seas way beyond what other types of boats of its length could handle, it's far less likely to take on water. And, if it does, a RIB doesn't trap it and has the ability to get rid of the water quickly if necessary through a low transom and high capacity deck drains. What's more, with the incredible buoyancy provided by the tube a RIB is far more capable of supporting... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 04:51 PM | Comments (0)
September 28, 2007
Pod Seats: Comfortable, Functional, Safe
Looking at the video I posted the other day of the woman and her passenger getting thrown from the boat, I am reminded just how much I like the RIBCRAFT pod seats. First, a pod seat is RIBCRAFT's version of a jockey seat. At first glance most people's reaction is that they don't look comfortable. Some people at boat shows have made such bizarre comments as it looks like an old fashion lunch box or even a mailbox. To an extent I would agree with that initial impression, however, they are anything but uncomfortable and more important they do what their meant to do – keep you in the boat. A RIB is the ultimate performance boat and though they are designed to go through anything safely, we passengers aren't without help. I like to equate a pod seat to a bucket seat in a high end sports car. You don't see large bench seats in a Porsche 911 or... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 09:07 AM | Comments (4)
September 24, 2007
Incredible Video - Should Have Worn the Kill Switch!
Take a look at this incredible and somewhat frightening video. The commentator says the two should have buckled up, but more importantly the driver should have been wearing his kill switch. I'm scared to know what happened to the people after falling out of the boat. Though this accident didn't happen on a RIB, it could happen on one if you take a tight turn at high speeds. Like this speed boat, a RIB is designed for high speed maneuvers but us people aren't. That's why you should always wear a kill switch while boating.... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 04:17 PM | Comments (3)
June 15, 2007
Wearing the Kill Switch Lanyard
As we head into the summer months, the busy season for marine patrols, sailing programs and recreational boaters, it’s important to remember when operating your RIB (or any boat for that matter) that you wear the kill switch lanyard. For those who think it’s too constricting to wear one, here are a few pictures that show someone sitting and standing – all while having the lanyard attached.... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 03:33 PM | Comments (0)
May 30, 2007
Unlimited Towing?
Here are a few pictures showing what can happen when a lower unit comes in contact with a submerged log at 40 mph! Luckily everyone on board was fine. It just goes to show the importance of having a TowBoat US or SeaTow membership. Even the best maintained boat or a brand new RIBCRAFT isn’t immune to freak accidents like this. With a towing membership, you have the piece of mind knowing that you’ll make it home safely. No - this isn't the latest in outboard jet technology!... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 03:28 PM | Comments (2)
May 23, 2007
National Safe Boating Week
In honor of National Safe Boating Week, May 19-25th, all of us at RIBCRAFT remind you to exercise caution while boating and to wear a lifejacket any time you’re on the water. Visit the National Safe Boating Week website for more information on how safe boating can improve your time on the water.... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 09:54 AM | Comments (0)
May 03, 2007
Boating Safety Courses For All
There are loads of boating safety courses offered throughout the country, for all kinds of boaters, of all experiences, ages, and professions. Many volunteer organizations, private companies, and state boating agencies offer classes. These courses cover cover virtually all aspects of boating safety, from boat handling to reading the weather, to courses created specifically for kids or those designed for Coast Guard personnel and first responders. Below is a partial list of just some of the many courses offered: American Boat Operators’ Course Offers online boating safety courses with online certification tests for individual states Boat/ US Foundation Courseline This is a searchable database of current boating safety courses BoatEd Online boating safety courses with online certification test for various states BoaterExam.com Online boating safety courses with certification for various states Boatsafe Online Basic Boating Certification Course approved by the National Association of Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA). Commander Bob An award winning website that advances boating education States Courses Many... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 05:41 PM | Comments (0)
May 01, 2007
Not To Be Overlooked: Sound Devices
The United States Coast Guard requires that a sound producing device, such as an air horn, be carried onboard as part of the boat’s basic safety equipment. The navigation rules require sound signals be made under certain circumstances. Meeting, crossing, and overtaking situations are examples of when sound signals are required. Additional, recreational vessels are required to sound signal during period of reduced visibility. Any vessel less than 39.4 feet must carry a whistle or horn or some other means to make an efficient sound signal to signal your intentions or to signal your position in fog or at night.... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 09:50 AM | Comments (0)
April 18, 2007
They Should Have Worn The Kill Switch Lanyard
Can you imagine the damage that could have been caused if this was a hard sided boat? Photo Credit: Peter Morris Here’s an example of just how important wearing the kill switch lanyard while operating a powerboat is. Had the operator of this boat only had his lanyard on, this accident would have been avoided. Luckily in this instance, no one was hurt. Wearing the kill switch lanyard is essential in preventing accidents like this one. If the operator had the lanyard clipped to his belt or lifejacket when he fell overboard, the lanyard would have triggered the kill switch, which in turn would have immediately stopped the engine and the boat would have come to a stop. The lanyard is a very simple, yet extremely effective safety precaution that all boat operators should wear while on the water – just like a lifejacket. However, if you don’t like the idea of having something attached to your wrist or belt,... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 10:45 AM | Comments (2)
April 13, 2007
Coach Boats - The Need For Safe Boating
Coach boats, safety boats, and spectator boats are becoming more and more prevalent at sailing regattas. It’s essential for those of us who operate them to remain alert and aware of our surroundings at all times. We need to not only be mindful of where we’re heading, but also of our wake and their effects on other boaters – most importantly the sailors. I read an article this morning on the Scuttlebutt newsletter (a great daily sailing e-newsletter) with a disturbing heading “Coach Boat Accident” – obviously I read more. It talks about a recent accident at a Laser regatta in Spain in which a sailor got their hand jammed between two Lasers as a result of two coach boats speeding past their tow line. It goes on to talk about a horrific accident in Greece back in August of 2002 when a boardsailor was run over by a coach boat. Click here for a link to the article. These... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 08:54 AM | Comments (4)
April 09, 2007
Not To Be Overlooked: Fire Extinguishers
Coast Guard approved fire extinguishers are required on boats where a fire hazard could be expected from the engines or fuel system. Extinguishers are classified by a letter and number symbol. The LETTER indicates the TYPE FIRE the unit is designed to extinguish (Type B extinguishers are designed to extinguish flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil and grease fires). The NUMBER indicates the relative SIZE of the extinguisher (the higher the number, the larger the extinguisher). Approved extinguishers required for boats are hand portable, either B-I or B-II classification and have a marine specific mounting bracket. Extinguishers should be mounted in an easily accessible position, away from areas where a fire could likely start. Though that sounds simple enough, the actual markings found on the units can be confusing because they can be approved for several different types of hazards. For instance, an extinguisher marked “Type A, Size II, Type B:C, Size I” is a B-1 extinguisher. The easiest thing... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 11:27 AM | Comments (0)
April 02, 2007
Not To Be Overlooked: Distress Signals
In addition to USCG approved PFDs, Visual Distress Signals are required on all vessels used on coastal waters, the Great Lakes, territorial seas, and any body of water that connects them that is 2 miles wide or wider. Boats greater than 16’ in length must carry day and night visual distress signals that are approved by the United States Coast Guard, are functional, and readily accessible. The most common are pyrotechnic devices, such as flares. All Pyrotechnic devices must: - A minimum of three pyrotechnic devices are required. That is, three signals for days use and three signals for night use. Some signals meet both day and night use requirements. - Be marked with an expiration date. Expired signals may be carries as extra equipment but can not be counted toward meeting USCG requirements. - Pyrotechnic devices should be stored in a cool, dry location, if possible. - A watertight container that is red or orange and marked “DISTRESS SIGNALS”... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 05:48 PM | Comments (0)
March 26, 2007
Not To Be Overlooked: PFDs
As we prepare to get back on the water in the colder climates and for those who are on the water year round it’s important to not overlook a critical component of a RIB: the safety equipment. Just as we routinely service the engine, inspect the tubes, and bottom paint as needed it’s essential that all safety equipment is kept up to date and safely stored onboard. Over the next week or so, I will cover some of the basic safety equipment required by the U.S. Coast Guard as well as other items that though not required are a good idea to always have on board. So – the first thing that is A MUST are PFDs (Personal Flotation Device). Every recreational boat must carry one wearable PFD (Type I, II, II or Type V) for each person on the boat. Any boat 16’ and longer must also carry one throwable PFD (Type IV). All PFDs must be Coast Guard... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 11:41 AM | Comments (0)
January 09, 2007
On the Water with the USCG Auxiliary
I was catching up on some reading the other day and was flipping through the November issue of PropTalk, a great publication that focuses on power boating in the Chesapeake, and came across a nice little article on a Coast Guard Auxiliarist using his RIBCRAFT 5.85 for patrols, A Day On Patrol With the USCG Auxiliary, by Art Pine. Jim Welday (a RIBCRAFT owner since 2003) has been a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary for over 14 years. Welday uses his RIBCRAFT 5.85 for patrols. In the past year alone, he has logged more than 300 hours on the boat patrolling the waters of the Chesapeake. Before purchasing the RIBCRAFT, Welday used a hardsided 21’ bowrider for his patrol duties. As the article mentioned: “This one [RIBCRAFT 5.85] is the ultimate in search and rescue craft. Besides the usual array of safety gear, it’s rigged with Auxiliary patrol signs, red-and-amber flashing strobe lights, a Sampson post for towing, and... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 01:37 PM | Comments (0)
September 10, 2006
Rescue Boat Fatality – A Lesson For All
An injured woman was killed a few weeks ago when the rescue boat, a flat bottom airboat operated by a local New Hampshire fire department, sank. Firefighters loaded the woman, who had fallen and hit her head on a dock, into a litter and then strapped it to the boat. The boat, which was being operated at a relatively high speed, began taking on water, capsized and quickly sank. This is a reminder to all of us that we should never allow the “excitement” of a situation come between caution and good judgment. A litter, stretcher or backboard should never be strapped to a boat with a victim attached. If conditions require that these be strapped down, then the operator of the boat should reduce their speed so that the victim is not thrashed about the boat. According to experts, airboats are highly susceptible to swamping and then quickly sinking. Airboats are great for conditions where there is little water... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 01:58 PM | Comments (0)
August 14, 2006
DSC On Your VHF Radio
Ever wonder what happens when you hit that red "distress" button on your VHF radio? Nothing. That is unless you’ve properly registered your radio and vessel through MSSI, the Maritime Mobile Service Industry. Most VHF radios these days are equipped with a DSC function (Digital Select Calling), which dramatically increases your safety at sea by taking advantage of enhanced communications options. In the event of an emergency your VHF radio can link you to other vessels and rescue facilities and, if you have a compatible GPS unit, can provide the exact location of your vessel at sea, allowing search and rescue efforts to become simply a rescue effort. DSC technology makes a VHF radio work like a telephone. It allows boaters to send a digital call directly to another DSC-equipped vessel or shore station, much like a person-to-person telephone call. In the event of an emergency, you can push the "distress" button on your VHF and automatically transmit a May... read morePosted by ribcraftusa at 05:31 PM | Comments (3)
Back To Index