Missouri Boating License Exam | Verified Questions & Answers | Latest 2025 Update | A+ Graded

Prepare for the Missouri Boating License Exam with this fully verified question-and-answer package. Includes latest 2025 updates, A+ graded solutions, and detailed explanations to ensure exam success. Perfect for first-time pass and confident, efficient study.1 MISSOURI BOATING LICENSE EXAM | QUESTIONS & ANSWERS (VERIFIED) | LATEST UPDATE | GRADED A+ Bow Correct Answer: Front of the vessel. Stern Correct Answer: Rear of the vessel. Starboard Correct Answer: Right side of the vessel. Port Correct Answer: Left side of the vessel. Hull Correct Answer: Body of the vessel. Gunwale Correct Answer: Upper edge of vessel's side. 2 Cleat Correct Answer: Metal fitting on which a rope can be fastened. Propeller Correct Answer: Rotates and powers a boat forward or backward. Beam Correct Answer: Maximum width of a vessel. Freeboard Correct Answer: Distance from water to lowest point of the boat where water could come on board. Draft Correct Answer: Depth of the water needed to float a vessel. Keel Correct Answer: Main centerline (backbone) of a vessel or the extension of hull that increases stability in the water. Hull Correct Answer: Body of a vessel; basic structure or shell. 3 Personal watercraft Correct Answer: A small vessel that uses an inboard jet drive as its primary source of propulsion, and is designed to be operated by a person or persons sitting, standing, or kneeling on the vessel rather than inside the vessel. Displacement Mode Correct Answer: A planing hull, when operated at very slow speeds, will cut through the water like a displacement hull. Plowing Mode Correct Answer: As speed increases, a planing hull will have a raised bow, reducing the operator's vision and throwing a very large wake. Avoid maintaining a speed that puts your boat in plowing mode. Planing Mode Correct Answer: Your boat is in planing mode when enough power is applied so that the hull glides on top of the water. Different boats reach planing mode at different speeds. Bow Correct Answer: Front of a vessel. Length overall Correct Answer: Length of the hull excluding any attachments. 4 Rudder Correct Answer: Steering device, usually a vertical blade attached to a post at, or near, the stern of the boat. Stern Correct Answer: Rear of a vessel Flat Bottom Hull Advantages Correct Answer: This planing hull has a shallow draft, which is good for fishing in small lakes and rivers. Deep Vee Hull Advantages Correct Answer: This planing hull gives a smoother ride than a flat bottom hull in rough water. Round Bottom Hull Advantages Correct Answer: This typical displacement hull moves easily through the water even at slow speeds. Multi Hull Advantages Correct Answer: Another example of a displacement hull, the multi-hull has greater stability because of its wide beam. 5 Flat Bottom Hull Disadvantages Correct Answer: Rides roughly and choppy in the waters. Deep Vee Hull Disadvantages Correct Answer: Takes more power to move at the same speed as flat bottom hulls. May roll or bank in sharp turns. Round Bottom Hull Disadvantages Correct Answer: Has a tendency to roll unless it has a deep keel or stabilizers. Multi Hull Disadvantages Correct Answer: Needs a large area when turning. Class A Correct Answer: Less than 16 feet. Class 1 Correct Answer: 16 feet less than 26 feet. Class 2 Correct Answer: 26 feet less than 40 feet. 6 Class 3 Correct Answer: 40 feet to less than 65 feet. Propeller Correct Answer: Rotating device that turns and powers a boat forward or backward. Tiller Correct Answer: Lever used to turn a rudder to steer a boat. Transform Correct Answer: Vertical surface at the back of the hull. Steering Control Correct Answer: Means of controlling the steering nozzle. Safety Lanyard Correct Answer: Short cord for attaching the ignition safety switch to the operators wrist or personal life vest. Throttle Correct Answer: Lever. Starboard 7 Correct Answer: Right side. Port Correct Answer: Left side. Fuel cap Correct Answer: Where you put gas in on the left side of the seadoo. Draft Correct Answer: Depth of water needed to float a vessel. Intake Correct Answer: Opening in the hull that draws water toward the impeller. Intake grate Correct Answer: Screening cover over the intake, which prevents large debris from entering. Drive shaft Correct Answer: The long stem connection between the motor and the impeller. Impeller 8 Correct Answer: Device used to pump and force water under pressure through a steering nozzle at the rear of the vessel. Steering nozzle Correct Answer: Device used for directing the stream of water to the left or right at the stern of the PWC, which steers the PWC Halyards Correct Answer: Lines (ropes) used to raise and lower the sails. Sheets Correct Answer: Lines (ropes) used to control the angle of the sails to the wind. Capsize Correct Answer: To turn on the side or turn completely over. Swamp Correct Answer: To fill with water. Transom Correct Answer: Vertical surface at the back of the hull. What is the maximum person on a sail boat 9 Correct Answer: 7 people or 1050 lbs. Bilge Correct Answer: Interior of the hull below the floorboards; lowest part of a vessel's interior where the sides of the vessel curve in to form the bottom Coupler Correct Answer: The part of the trailer that attaches to the ball hitch on a towing vehicle. Figure Eight Bend Correct Answer: The figure-eight knot has several uses, including connecting two ropes to make a longer line or making a "stopper" knot in a single line in order to prevent the line from slipping through a hole or a gap in a block or a cleat. Bowline Knot Correct Answer: The bowline is a multi-purpose knot that is essential for boat operators to know. Forming the knot creates a fixed loop on the end of the rope or line—a loop that can be used for hitching, mooring, or lifting. Anchor Bend Knot Correct Answer: A type of hitching knot, the anchor bend is used to secure a rope to an anchor or a ring. If additional security is needed, a half hitch can be tied at the end. 10 Cleating Hitch Correct Answer: Used to attach a line to a cleat on a dock, the cleating hitch is formed by wrapping the line around the base of the cleat, then forming one or more figure eights around the cleat. The knot is secured with a half hitch. Clove Hitch Correct Answer: The clove hitch is handy for temporary fastening, such as when tying up to a piling. It's particularly useful because—with experience—it can be tied with only one hand. For extra fastening power or for longer periods of time, add two half hitches after tying the clove hitch. Round Turn and Two Half Hitches Correct Answer: Handy for tying down a bulky load or tying a boat to a mooring post, the round turn and two half hitches is versatile. It is a secure knot that does not jam and is easy to undo. Vessel Correct Answer: Every kind of watercraft capable of being used as a means of transportation on water, including seaplanes. Give- way vessel Correct Answer: The vessel that is required to take early and substantial action to keep well away from other vessels by stopping, slowing down or changing course. 11 Stand-on vessel Correct Answer: The vessel that must maintain its course and speed unless it becomes apparent that the give-way boat is not taking appropriate action; if you must take action, do not turn toward the give-way boat or cross in front of it. Leeward Correct Answer: Direction toward which the wind is blowing, or downwind. Leeward vessel refers to the vessel that is downwind of the other. Windward Correct Answer: Direction from which the wind is blowing, or upwind. Windward vessel refers to the vessel that is upwind of the other. Engaged in commercial fishing Correct Answer: Any vessel fishing with nets, lines, trawls, or other fishing equipment that restricts maneuverability; however, does not include a vessel fishing with trolling lines or other fishing equipment that do not restrict maneuverability Restricted visibility Correct Answer: Any condition in which visibility is restricted by fog, mist, falling snow, heavy rainstorms, sandstorms, or any other similar causes. 12 Risk of collision Correct Answer: Any situation when an approaching vessel continues on a collision course (the bearing of the approaching vessel does not change), or when you are approaching a very large vessel Sidelights Correct Answer: These red and green lights are called sidelights (also called combination lights) because they are visible to another vessel approaching from the side or head-on. The red light indicates a vessel's port (left) side; the green indicates a vessel's starboard (right) side. Stern light Correct Answer: This white light is seen only from behind or nearly behind the vessel. Masthead light Correct Answer: This white light shines forward and to both sides and is required on all power-driven vessels. (On power-driven vessels less than 39.4 feet in length, the masthead light and sternlight may be combined into an all-round white light; powerdriven vessels 39.4 feet in length or longer must have a separate masthead light.) A masthead light must be displayed by all vessels when under engine power. The absence of this light indicates a sailing vessel because sailboats under sail display only sidelights and a sternlight. 13 Power driven vessel Correct Answer: Any vessel propelled by machinery, including a sailboat using an engine. Sailing Vessel Correct Answer: Any vessel under sail and with no engine in use Vessel engaged in fishing: Any vessel fishing with nets, lines, trawls, or other fishing equipment that restricts maneuverability; however, this does not include a vessel fishing with trolling lines or other fishing equipment that does not restrict maneuverability. Underway Correct Answer: Not anchored, tied to shore, or aground. Risk of collision Correct Answer: Any situation when an approaching vessel continues on a collision course (the bearing of the approaching vessel does not change), or anytime you are approaching a very large vessel. All around white light Correct Answer: On power-driven vessels less than 39.4 feet in length, this light may be used to combine a masthead light and sternlight into a single white light that can be seen by other vessels from any direction. This light serves as an anchor light when sidelights are extinguished. 14 upstream Correct Answer: In the direction that is against the current Guards Correct Answer: Devices that provide some type of physical barrier around the propeller. These include deflection devices, full cages, ring guards, ringed props, and "Kort Nozzles." When you are moving away in the water what side should the red be on? Correct Answer: Right remember the phrase Red Right Returning. Propulsion Correct Answer: Devices other than a propeller such as jet drives and pump jets. Interlocks Correct Answer: Devices that automatically turn off the engine or sound an alarm. For example, a ladder interlock stops the engine or triggers an alarm when passengers use the ladder to enter or leave the water. Sensors Correct Answer: Wireless sensors or other devices worn by boaters that shut off the boat's engine or trigger an alarm if the wearer falls overboard. 15 Where will the green boueys be on the boat? Correct Answer: The left side and it has an odd number. Can Buoys Correct Answer: These cylindrical-shaped buoys are always marked with green markings and odd numbers. They mark the edge of the channel on your port (left) side when entering from the open sea or heading upstream. Nun Buoys Correct Answer: These cone-shaped buoys are always marked with red markings and even numbers. They mark the edge of the channel on your starboard (right) side when entering from the open sea or heading upstream. Lighted Buoys Correct Answer: These buoys use the lateral marker shapes, colors, and numbers discussed previously. In addition, they have a matching colored light. Day marks Correct Answer: These are permanently placed signs attached to structures, such as posts, in the water. Common daymarks are red triangles (equivalent to nuns) and green squares (equivalent to cans). These may be lit. 16 What side should the yellow triangle buoy be on? Correct Answer: Any marker displaying a yellow triangle should be passed by keeping it on the starboard (right) side of the boat. Any marker displaying a yellow square should be passed by keeping it on the port (left) side of the boat. What side should the yellow square buoy be on? Correct Answer: Any marker displaying a yellow square should be passed by keeping it on the port (left) side of the boat. What does the square buoy be used for? Correct Answer: icon for directions and information. What does the diamond buoy be used for? Correct Answer: Diamond buoy icon warning of danger. Warn of hazards and obstructions. What does the circular buoy be used for? Correct Answer: icon for marking controlled areas. What does the circle buoy be used for? Correct Answer: Mark controlled areas. 17 What does the crossed diamond buoy be used for? Correct Answer: Mark exclusion (closed) areas. Common Non- Lateral Markers (Information.) Correct Answer: Squares provide information such as places to find food, supplies, and repairs; and they give directions, distances, and other non-regulatory information. Regulatory Marker- Information (Danger Area). Correct Answer: Diamonds warn of dangers such as rocks, shoals, construction, dams, or stumps. Always proceed with caution and keep a safe distance. Never assume that every hazard will be marked by a buoy. Regulatory Marker- Danger (Controlled Area.) Correct Answer: Circles indicates a controlled area such as "no wake," "idle speed," speed limit, or ski zone. Regulatory Marker- Prohibited (Exclusion Area). Correct Answer: Crossed diamonds indicate areas off-limits to all boats, such as swimming areas, dams, and spillways. Safe Water Marker 18 Correct Answer: These are white with red vertical stripes and indicate unobstructed water on all sides. They mark mid-channels or fairways and may be passed on either side. Mooring Buoy Correct Answer: These are white with a blue horizontal band. They usually are placed in marinas and other areas where boats are allowed to anchor. These are the only buoys you may tie up to legally. Inland Waters Obstruction Marker Correct Answer: These are white with black vertical stripes and indicate an obstruction to navigation. You should not pass between these buoys and the nearest shore. The Plow- Style Anchor Correct Answer: Is good for most boats and gets its holding power by plowing into bottom sediment. The Fluke- Style Anchor Correct Answer: (commonly referred to as Danforth) is similar to the plow style but is more lightweight. It is also good for most boats and gets its holding power from its pointed flukes digging into bottom sediment. The Mushroom Anchor 19 Correct Answer: Gets its holding power by sinking into bottom sediment. It should not be used to anchor boats larger than a small canoe, rowboat, small sailboat, or inflatable boat since the holding power is weak. You should never depend on a mushroom anchor to hold your boat in rough water or weather. How to secure a Anchor Correct Answer: Attach 7-8 feet of galvanized chain to the anchor. The chain helps set the anchor by lowering the angle of the pull as the chain sinks and settles to the bottom. It also will help prevent abrasion of the anchor line from sand or rock on the bottom. Most anchors grip by digging into the bottom when the line is pulled horizontally. Any upward pull may break the anchor loose. How to make the Anchor better Correct Answer: Be sure the anchor line is strong and long enough to anchor your boat. A good rule of thumb is that the length of the line should be at least seven to ten times the depth of the water where you are setting anchor. How to pull an Anchor out quickly Correct Answer: Since an anchor can be a safety device in an emergency situation, store the anchor and its lines in an accessible area. If the engine breaks down, you may need to anchor quickly to avoid drifting aground. Cleat 20 Correct Answer: Metal fitting on which a rope can be fastened. Down current Correct Answer: In the direction the current is flowing. Down Wind Correct Answer: In the direction the wind is blowing. Upwind Correct Answer: In the direction that is against the wind. The Low- Head Dam Correct Answer: Is the most dangerous type of dam and has been named the "drowning machine." They may not be easily spotted because the top of a low-head dam can be several feet below the water's surface. Because of their small size and drop, low-head dams do not appear to be dangerous. However, water going over a low-head dam creates a strong recirculating current or backroller (sometimes referred to as the "boil") at the base of the dam. Even on small rivers, the force of the backroller can trap your boat against the face of the dam and pull you under the water—even while wearing your personal flotation device (life jacket). Be aware that on large rivers or during high water the backroller or boil may be located more than 100 feet downstream of the dam. Avoid low-head dams. 21 Large Structure Dams Correct Answer: Are more easily spotted because of their powerhouses and spillways. They can be dangerous to boaters and swimmers both below and above the dam. These areas are usually off-limits. Obey all warning signs and signals. Flashing Red Light Correct Answer: Means stay well clear of the lock and do not enter. Allow plenty of room for boats to exit the lock. Fenders Correct Answer: Cushioning device placed between vessels or between a vessel and a dock to prevent damage. Flashing Amber Light Correct Answer: Means approach the lock at a safe speed and under full control. Flashing Green Light Correct Answer: Means enter the lock. What to know about the fenders: Correct Answer: - Have fenders and at least 100 feet of rope to use in securing your boat inside the lock. - Follow the lock attendant's instructions and proceed slowly. 22 - Avoid passing another boat when inside the lock, unless directed to do so by the lock attendant. - Wait for the lock attendant's signal to exit the lock. Chart Correct Answer: Map used for navigation. Aground Correct Answer: Touching or stuck on the bottom. A Boat's Compass Correct Answer: Boat's compass can be invaluable in bad weather and at night. Make sure you know how to use it. About the PWC: Correct Answer: The most important thing to remember about steering most PWCs (and other jet-drive vessels) is that you always must have power in order to maintain control. If you allow the engine on a PWC or other jet-propelled vessel to return to idle or shut off during operation, you may lose all steering control. Many PWCs will continue in the direction they were headed before the throttle was released or the engine was shut off, no matter which way the steering control is turned. Do you hold the throttle when you turn or do you release it? 23 Correct Answer: You hold it because if you release it then you it goes out of control. For EXAMPLE If you the PWC is pointed in the direction of going straight then you let go of the throttle then you will have no control and it will go straight where the direction was pointing. About the PWC Steering and running into boats Correct Answer: PWC operators need to beware of passing too closely behind another vessel. The vessel will block your view of oncoming vessels, as well as the oncoming vessel's view of the PWC. The directions about the PWC: Correct Answer: - Any passenger on a PWC should be able to hold on securely to the person in front of them or to the handholds, while keeping both feet firmly on the footrests. Children who are too small to be able to do this should not ride. - A passenger on a PWC should never be seated in front of the operator. - Keep hands, feet, loose clothing, and hair away from the pump intake area. Before cleaning debris from the pump intake, be sure to shut off the engine. - The jet of water exiting the steering nozzle at the rear of the PWC can cause severe internal injuries. Anyone riding on a PWC should wear a wetsuit or other clothing that provides similar protection. - Also, keep everyone clear of the steering nozzle unless the PWC is shut off. - Never exceed the manufacturer's recommended capacity for your PWC. - Know your limits, and ride according to your abilities. 24 PWC instructions: Correct Answer: Frequently inspect your PWC's electrical systems (e.g., starter and engine gauge connections) to ensure there is no potential for electrical spark. This is important because gas fumes could collect in the engine compartment and an explosion could occur if a spark from the electrical system ignited the fumes. After fueling, sniff the engine compartment for any evidence of gas fumes. PWC emergency situations : Correct Answer: - PWCs are designed to turn over and that's part of what makes them fun, but it's also why it is very important that the ignition safety switch is attached to the operator. After a fall, the PWC could be overturned completely. You should know how to right the PWC and how to reboard from the rear of the craft. - Most manufacturers have placed a decal at the rear or bottom of the craft that indicates the direction to roll your PWC to return it to an upright position. If no decal exists, check your owner's manual or ask the dealer. With this information, you should be able to roll the PWC over and reboard with little trouble. If you roll it over the wrong way, you could damage your PWC. - It is a good idea to practice reboarding with someone else around to make sure you can handle it alone. Don't ride your PWC if you are very tired because reboarding would 25 be difficult. Also, avoid riding where there are strong currents or winds, which could hamper your reboarding efforts. Tools of the PWC: Correct Answer: - Excessive noise from personal watercraft often makes them unwelcome with other boat operators, as well as with people on shore. Here are some tips on how you can be a courteous PWC operator. - Vary your operating area, and do not keep repeating the same maneuver. -Avoid congregating with other PWC operators near shore, which increases annoying noise levels. - Avoid making excessive noise near residential and camping areas. - Excessive use in one area can be an irritant to people who are there to enjoy a quiet and relaxing time. - Avoid maneuvers that cause the engine exhaust to lift out of the water because that increases noise levels. 26 - Do not modify your engine exhaust system if it increases the noise. Improperly modified exhausts will not make your PWC faster and may raise the noise to an illegal level. - Share the waterways responsibly with other boaters, fishermen, swimmers, surfers, or skiers. Respect their right to use the waterways safely and enjoyably. PWC and Boat Wake Signs: Correct Answer: -Jumping the wake of a passing boat, or riding too close to another PWC or boat, creates risks and is restricted or even prohibited in some states. Here's why. - The boat making the wake may block the PWC operator's view of oncoming traffic and also conceal the PWC operator from approaching vessels. - It can be very stressful for boat operators to have PWCs continually in close proximity to their boats. - Wake jumping and riding too close to other vessels are common complaints others have against PWC operators. - Do not attempt to spray others with the wake of your PWC. Not only is this discourteous, but it is also dangerous and reckless operation. 27 Wake Correct Answer: Waves that a vessel leaves behind as it moves through the water. Environmental Considerations for the PWC: Correct Answer: - Make sure that the water you operate in is at least 30 inches deep. - Riding in shallow water can cause bottom sediments or aquatic vegetation to be sucked into the pump, damaging your PWC and the environment. - Avoid causing erosion by operating at slow speed and by not creating a wake when operating near shore or in narrow streams or rivers. - Do not dock or beach your PWC in reeds and grasses. This could damage fragile environments. - Take extra care when fueling your PWC in or near the water. Oil and gasoline spills are very detrimental to the aquatic environment. Fuel on land if possible. -Never use your PWC to disturb, chase, or harass wildlife. PWC Safety: Correct Answer: - A lanyard connects the safety switch to the operator's wrist or PFD. 28 - When the lanyard is pulled from the switch, the engine shuts off. -If a PWC has an ignition safety switch, most states require the operator to attach the lanyard. However, even if attaching the lanyard is not required by law, many lives could be saved by doing so. If your powerboat or PWC does not have an ignition safety switch, you should have one installed. -Your PWC may have a self-circling feature. If the operator is thrown from the PWC, the engine idles while the PWC slowly circles so that the operator can reboard. Be sure the idle speed is set correctly. Lanyard Correct Answer: Short cord used for fastening something or securing rigging; on a PWC and most powerboats, it attaches the ignition safety switch to the operator's wrist or life jacket. Use of Ignition Safety Switches Helps Prevent Injuries: Correct Answer: -Each year, many boating accidents involve an operator and/or passengers who fall overboard for a variety of reasons. Wearing an ignition safety switch lanyard not only ensures that your boat or PWC stays close if you fall overboard, but it also prevents you from being run over by your own boat. When the operator isn't wearing a lanyard, the unmanned boat tends to run in hard, fast circles, often resulting 29 in a severe injury or death from a propeller strike. Wearing the lanyard reduces the risk of a propeller injury and makes it easier to reboard the boat. Avoid Jet Ski injuries Correct Answer: -Connect the ignition safety switch lanyard to the operator's wrist or PFD. If the operator ends up in the water, shutting off the engine stops the jet stream. -Wear a wetsuit or other protective clothing that will keep the jet stream from entering your body cavities. -This is recommended for both the operator and any passengers. Passengers could fall off the PWC into the path of the jet stream before the operator can stop the engine. How to Prevent Propeller strikes: Correct Answer: -Turn off the engine when passengers are boarding or disembarking. Propellers should not be spinning when a passenger is in a vulnerable situation. Prevent passengers from being thrown overboard accidentally. -Never start a boat with the engine in gear. -Never ride on a seat back, gunwale, transom, or bow. -Make sure all passengers are seated properly before getting underway. 30 -Some operators cause injuries by putting the engine in gear while people are still swimming or diving from the boat. -Assign a responsible adult to watch any children in the boat and sound the alarm if a child falls overboard. -Maintain a proper lookout for people in the water. The primary cause of propeller strike accidents is operator inattention or carelessness. -Slow down when approaching congested areas and anchorages. In congested areas, always be alert for swimmers and divers. -Learn to recognize warning buoys that mark swimming and other hazardous areas. -Keep the boat away from marked swimming and diving areas. -Become familiar with the red flag with a white diagonal stripe and the blue-and-white "Alfa" flag—both signal that divers are down. The registration information for the boats or the seadoos etc. Correct Answer: -Number must be painted, applied as a decal, or otherwise affixed to both sides of the bow above the waterline. -Number must read from left to right on both sides of the bow. -Number must be in at least three-inch-high BLOCK letters. 31 -Number's color must sharply contrast with its background. Letters must be separated from the numbers by at least a two-inch space. -A hyphen may be placed within the two-inch space. For example: MO 1255 HP or MO1255-HP. -No other numbers may be displayed on either side of the bow. -Decal must be affixed on both sides of the vessel, directly underneath the main body of the registration number or, if there is insufficient room underneath, as close as possible to the registration number. Registration of the vessels for your boat, seadoos etc. Correct Answer: -All motorized vessels and sailboats over 12 feet in length must be titled. -Owners of vessels that have already been registered may be sent a renewal notice to their residence without any action by the owner. -If you change address, you must notify the Missouri Department of Revenue (MDOR) within 15 days of the change. 32 -If a numbered vessel is lost, stolen or abandoned, the owner should report it to local authorities and to the MDOR within 15 days of such event. -If you lose or destroy your Certificate of Number or decal, you must apply to the MDOR for a duplicate and submit a processing fee. Registrating and titling motors Correct Answer: -Outboard motors, regardless of horsepower (excluding electric trolling motors), are required to have a Certificate of Title and to be registered with the state of Missouri. -Application for a title and for registration must be made within 60 days of purchase or entry into the state. -The registration of a motor is permanent as long as ownership is not changed. -Owners of registered motors are issued a motor registration decal that should be displayed on the left side of the outboard motor. Hull identification number: Correct Answer: -The Hull Identification Number (HIN) is a unique 12-digit number assigned by the manufacturer to vessels built after 1972. 33 Hull Identification Numbers: -Distinguish one vessel from another—the same as serial numbers distinguish one car from another. -Are engraved in the fiberglass or on a metal plate permanently attached to the transom. -You should write down your HIN and put it in a place separate from your vessel in case warranty problems arise or your vessel is stolen. -If the HIN is missing or nonexistent, such as with a home-built vessel, apply for an identification number with the Missouri Department of Revenue. Terms of the age limit for driving any water stuff: Correct Answer: -All persons must be at least 14 years of age to legally operate a motorboat or PWC unless under the direct, onboard supervision of a parent, guardian, or other person 16 years of age or older. -No person may knowingly permit a child under the minimum age to operate a motorboat or PWC unattended. 34 -Parents and guardians are legally responsible for the underage operator and their actions. Boating Education Law Correct Answer: -All persons born after January 1, 1984, who operate any vessel on the lakes of the state of Missouri must have on board: -A boating safety identification card issued by the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) and a photo I.D. or... A Missouri driver's license, or a non-driver's license, with a boating safety endorsement. -The boating safety card is obtained by successfully completing a boating safety course approved by the MSHP. -Missouri residents must have and present to a licensing office a boating safety identification card when adding the boating endorsement to the driver's license or nondriver's license. -The boating safety identification card requirement also applies to nonresidents. -Persons who possess a U.S. Coast Guard or Power Squadron boating course certificate may apply for a certificate issued by the Missouri State Highway Patrol. 35 Vessel Correct Answer: Missouri law defines a vessel as every motorboat and every description of motorized watercraft, and any watercraft more than 12 feet in length that is powered by sail alone or by a combination of sail and machinery, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water, but not any watercraft having as the only means of propulsion a paddle or oars. Watercraft Correct Answer: Missouri law defines a watercraft as any boat or craft, including a vessel, used or capable of being used as a means of transport on waters. What the Missouri law states..... Correct Answer: Missouri law designates these dangerous operating practices as illegal. Reckless Operation Correct Answer: of a vessel or the reckless manipulation of water skis, wakeboard, or similar device is the failure to exercise the care necessary to prevent the endangerment of life, limb, or property of any person. Examples of illegal, reckless operation are: Examples of Reckless Operation Correct Answer: -Boating in restricted areas without regard for other boaters or persons, posted speeds and wake restrictions, diver-down flags, etc. 36 -Boating while under the influence of alcohol or drugs Chasing, harassing, or disturbing wildlife with your vessel. Overload Correct Answer: is loading the vessel beyond the recommended capacity shown on the capacity plate installed by the vessel manufacturer. Riding on the bow, deck or gunwale Correct Answer: Is allowing passengers to ride on the bow, gunwale, transom, seat backs, seats on raised decks, or any other place where there may be a chance of falling overboard, unless the vessel has adequate guards or railings. Guards or railings must be at least 6 inches high (not to exceed 18 inches in height) to be considered adequate. "idle speed" or "slow, no wake speed" Correct Answer: The slowest speed at which it is still possible to maintain steering. The improper speed or distance: Correct Answer: Improper Speed or Distance is not maintaining a proper speed or distance while operating a motorboat or PWC or while towing a person on water skis or any similar device. Specifically, it is illegal to: 37 Operate a motorboat or PWC at speeds that may cause danger, injury, damage, or unnecessary inconvenience. Be aware of and obey all regulatory markers, including those marked as "idle speed" or "no wake." Operate a vessel at a speed in excess of "slow, no wake speed" within 100 feet of any emergency vessel that has red or blue emergency lights displayed. Operate a motorboat or PWC at speeds greater than "idle speed" or "slow, no wake speed" within 100 feet of: -A dock or pier -An occupied, anchored vessel -A buoyed restricted area -Areas where damage may be caused from the wake of your motorboat. Exceeding Night Speed Limit is operating a motorboat or PWC in excess of 30 miles per hour any time from one-half hour after sunset until one hour before sunrise when on the waters of the state. Skier- Down Flag Violation Correct Answer: -Violating the Skier-Down Flag Requirement is defined as failure to properly display the skier-down flag or failure to keep a proper distance from a displayed skier-down flag. Specifically: 38 -An operator of a motorboat (other than a PWC) on the waters of the Mississippi River, Missouri River, and Missouri lakes from 11:00 a.m. to sunset must clearly display a red or orange flag, at least 12 inches x 12 inches in size, whenever a person enters the water before or after being towed on water skis or other similar devices. -Once the skier is up and being towed, the flag must be lowered. The flag must be raised again when the skier falls or stops skiing and enters the water in order to return to the motorboat. -Operators of vessels must not knowingly operate within 50 yards of a displayed skierdown flag unless operating at idle speed or no wake speed. Missouri Law With any illegal stuff: Correct Answer: Missouri law prohibits anyone from boating while intoxicated (BWI)— that is, operating a vessel while intoxicated due to alcohol or any combination of alcohol, controlled substances, or drugs. Alcohol and drugs cause impaired balance, blurred vision, poor coordination, impaired judgment, and slower reaction times. Alcohol is a major contributor to boating accidents and fatalities. Missouri law states that it is evidence of intoxication if a person has a concentration of alcohol in his or her blood of 0.08% or more, based upon a chemical analysis of breath, blood, or saliva. 39 Because you can drink faster than your system can burn off the alcohol, there is an increasing level of alcohol in your blood. This level is referred to as Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC). The penalties of wrong doings: Correct Answer: -Those convicted of boating while intoxicated are guilty of a Class B misdemeanor upon a first conviction. In addition, those convicted will be required to complete and pass an approved boating safety course. -Upon a second conviction, a person is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. -Upon a third or subsequent conviction, a person will be guilty of a Class D felony. -A person boating while intoxicated who causes the death or serious injury of another person will, upon conviction, be guilty of a felony. Moor Correct Answer: To keep a vessel in place by setting anchor or tying the vessel to a fixed object or buoy. Obstructing or Impending Navigation Correct Answer: Vessel operators should always be considerate of other vessel operators even when stopping to anchor or moor. Keep in mind that it is illegal to: 40 -Anchor a vessel in the traveled portion of a river or channel in a way that will prevent or interfere with any other vessel passing through the same area. -Moor or attach a vessel to a buoy (other than a mooring buoy), beacon, light, or any other navigational aid placed on public waters by proper authorities. Move, displace, tamper with, damage, or destroy any navigational aid. -Obstruct a pier, wharf, boat ramp, or access to any facility. Mark or obstruct any state waters in a way that endangers the operation of watercraft or conflicts with the MSHP marking system. -Operate or otherwise position a vessel, other object, or any person in a way that obstructs or impedes the normal flow of traffic on the lakes of this state with, damage, or destroy any navigational aid. Homeland security restrictions Correct Answer: Do not approach within 100 yards and slow to minimum speed within 500 yards of any U.S. Naval vessel. If you need to pass within 100 yards of a U.S. Naval vessel for safe passage, you must contact the U.S. Naval vessel or the U.S. Coast Guard escort vessel on VHF-FM channel 16. Observe and avoid all security zones. Avoid commercial port operation areas, especially those that involve military, cruise-line, or petroleum facilities. Observe and avoid other restricted areas near dams, power plants, etc. Do not stop or anchor beneath bridges or in the channel. 41 Keep a sharp eye out for anything that looks peculiar or out of the ordinary. Report all activities that seem suspicious to the local authorities, the U.S. Coast Guard, or the port or marina security. Overview of PFD Law: Correct Answer: All vessels must be equipped with U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets, called personal flotation devices (PFDs). The quantity and type depend on the length of your vessel and the number of people on board and/or being towed. Each PFD must be in good condition, be the proper size for the intended wearer, and very importantly, be readily accessible! Readily accessible means you must be able to put the PFD on in a reasonable amount of time in an emergency (vessel sinking, on fire, etc.). PFDs should not be stowed in plastic bags or in locked or closed compartments, and they should not have other gear stowed on top of them. Specific PFD Requirements: Correct Answer: All vessels 16 feet in length or longer must carry one wearable U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD (life jacket) for each person on board or being towed. Vessels less than 16 feet in length must carry one wearable or one throwable USCGapproved PFD for each person on board or being towed. Under federal law, however, a wearable PFD is required for each person on board regardless of vessel length. In addition to the requirements above, vessels 16 feet in length or longer must have one USCG-approved Type IV PFD on board and readily accessible. 42 All PFDs must be in good and serviceable condition and readily accessible. The PFDs must be of the proper size for the intended wearer. Sizing for PFDs is based on body weight and chest size. Everyone on board a PWC must wear a USCG-approved Type I, II, III, or V PFD. PFDs may not be stowed in closed or locked compartments. Length of Vessel Correct Answer: Less than 26 feet 26 feet to less than 40 feet 40 feet less than 65 feet. Without Fixed System Correct Answer: one B-I two B-I or one B-II three B-I or one B-II and one B-I. With Fixed System Correct Answer: None One B-I two B-I or one B-II. Backfire 43 Correct Answer: Explosion of prematurely ignited fuel or of unburned exhaust gases in an internal combustion engine. Backfire Flame Arrestors: Correct Answer: Because boat engines may backfire, all powerboats (except outboards) that are fueled with gasoline must have an approved backfire flame arrestor on each carburetor. Backfire flame arrestors are designed to prevent the ignition of gasoline vapors in case the engine backfires. Backfire flame arrestors must be: In good and serviceable condition U.S. Coast Guard-approved (must comply with SAE J-1928 or UL 1111 standards) Periodically clean the flame arrestor(s) and check for any damage. Backfire flame arrestor How Ventilation Systems Work: Correct Answer: Ventilation systems are crucial. Their purpose is to avoid explosions by removing flammable gases. Properly installed ventilation systems greatly reduce the chance of a life-threatening explosion. A boat's ventilation system Powerboats are built to ventilate the engine when underway. As the boat moves along, an air intake scoops up fresh air and forces it down the air duct into the engine 44 compartment. The exhaust sucks out the explosive fumes from the lowest part of the engine and fuel compartments. Ventilation System Requirements: Correct Answer: All gasoline-powered vessels, constructed in a way that would entrap fumes, must have at least two ventilation ducts fitted with cowls to remove the fumes. At least one exhaust duct must extend from the open atmosphere to the lower bilge. At least one intake duct must extend from a point at least midway to the bilge or below the level of the carburetor air intake. If your vessel is equipped with a power ventilation system, turn it on for at least four minutes in either of these situations: After fueling Before starting the engine If your vessel is not equipped with a power ventilation system (for example, a personal watercraft), open the engine compartment and sniff for gasoline fumes before starting the engine. Cowl Correct Answer: Hooded opening designed to scoop in air. Mufflers and Noise and Level limits: 45 Correct Answer: Excessive noise can prevent a vessel operator from hearing signals and voices. A motorboat's engine must have a factory-installed muffler or exhaust water manifold for noise reduction or another effective muffling system. Motorboats built on January 1, 1996, or later must not exceed a noise level of 90 dBA when stationary at idle and measured from a distance of 3 feet. All motorboats must not exceed a noise level of 86 dBA when measured from a distance of 50 feet. You may not remove or modify a muffler or muffling system if the result is increased noise level. If the exhaust system uses water for muffling, it must comply with the noise level restrictions. Overview of Navigation Lights: Correct Answer: Vessel operators must make sure that their vessels are equipped with the proper navigation lights and use the lights during these conditions: When away from the dock between sunset and sunrise During periods of restricted visibility such as fog or heavy rain No other lights that may be mistaken for required navigation lights may be exhibited. The required navigation lights differ depending on the type and size of your vessel. The common lighting configurations for recreational vessels are discussed in this course. 46 For other configurations and requirements for larger vessels see the U.S. Coast Guard's Navigation Rules. Lights for Motorboats: Correct Answer: less than 39.4 feet long, these vessels must exhibit the lights as shown in Figure 1. Remember, motorboats include sailboats operating under power. Fig. 1: Navigation lights on power-driven vessels less than 65.6 feet The required lights are: Red and green sidelights visible from a distance of at least one mile away on a dark, clear night. An all-round white light or both a masthead light and a sternlight. These lights must be visible from a distance of at least two miles away on a dark, clear night. The all-round white light (or the masthead light and sternlight) must be visible from all directions in a 360° circle. Lights required for unpowered vessels: Correct Answer: Unpowered vessels are sailing vessels or vessels that are paddled, poled, or rowed. 47 If less than 65.6 feet long, these vessels must exhibit the lights as shown in Figure 2. The required lights are: Red and green sidelights visible from a distance of at least two miles away—or if less than 39.4 feet long, at least one mile away—on a dark, clear night. A sternlight visible from a distance of at least two miles away. An alternative to the sidelights and sternlight is a combination red, green, and white light, which must be exhibited near the top of the mast. Lights required for unpowered vessels in less than 23 feet: Correct Answer: If less than 23.0 feet (7 meters) long, these vessels should: If practical, exhibit the same lights as required for unpowered vessels less than 65.6 feet in length. If not practical, have on hand at least one lantern or flashlight shining a white light as shown in Figure 3. To prevent a collision, vessel operators should never leave shore without a flashlight. Even if you plan to return before dark, unforeseen developments might delay your return past nightfall. Lights for unpowered vessels in not underway: 48 Correct Answer: All vessels are required to display a white light visible from all directions whenever they are anchored or moored away from dock between sunset and sunrise. Which waters a federally controlled? Correct Answer: Waters on which vessels must observe federal requirements, including VDS requirements; these waters include: Coastal waters: -The Great Lakes -Territorial seas -Bodies of water connected directly to one of the above, up to a point where the body of water is less than two miles wide Visually Distress Signals: Correct Answer: Visual Distress Signals (VDSs) allow vessel operators to signal for help in the event of an emergency. VDSs are classified as day signals (visible in bright sunlight), night signals (visible at night), or both day and night signals. VDSs are either pyrotechnic (smoke and flames) or non-pyrotechnic (non-combustible). 49 Vessels on federally controlled waters must be equipped with U.S. Coast Guardapproved visual distress signals. All vessels, regardless of length or type, are required to carry night signals when operating between sunset and sunrise. Most vessels must carry day signals also; exceptions to the requirement for day signals are: Recreational vessels that are less than 16 feet in length Non-motorized open sailboats that are less than 26 feet in length Manually propelled vessels VDSs must be U.S. Coast Guard-approved, in serviceable condition, and readily accessible. It is prohibited to display visual distress signals while on the water unless assistance is required to prevent immediate or potential danger to persons on board a vessel. Pyrotechnics Visual Distress Signals: Correct Answer: Pyrotechnics are excellent distress signals. However, there is potential for injury and property damage if not handled properly. These devices produce a very hot flame, and the residue can cause burns and ignite flammable materials. Pistol-launched and handheld parachute flares and meteors have many characteristics of a firearm and must be handled with caution. In some states, they are considered a firearm and are prohibited from use. Pyrotechnic devices should be stored in a cool, dry, and prominently marked location. 50 If pyrotechnic VDSs are used, they must be dated. Expired VDSs may be carried on board, but a minimum of three unexpired VDSs must be carried in the vessel. Day Signals: Correct Answer: Orange Smoke Handheld Day Signal Orange Smoke Floating Day Signal. Day and Night Signals: Correct Answer: Red Meteor Day and Night Signal Red Flare Day and Night Signal. Signals for Sounds: Correct Answer: In periods of reduced visibility or whenever a vessel operator needs to signal his or her intentions or position, a sound-producing device is essential. For example, sound signals are required when meeting head-on, crossing, and overtaking. The following requirements apply to vessels operating on Missouri state waters. 51 Vessels more than 16 feet but less than 40 feet in length are required to carry on board a whistle or horn to make an efficient sound to signal intentions or positions. Vessels that are 40 feet or more in length are required to carry on board a whistle or horn, and a bell. These requirements apply to vessels operating on federally controlled waters. Vessels less than 65.6 feet (20 meters) in length, which includes PWCs, are required to carry on board a whistle or horn or some other means to make an efficient sound signal audible for at least one-half mile. Vessels that are 65.6 feet (20 meters) or more in length are required to carry on board a whistle or horn, and a bell that are audible for at least one mile. Sounds: Correct Answer: Common Sound Signals Some common sound signals that you should be familiar with as a recreational boater are as follows. A short blast lasts one second. A prolonged blast lasts 4-6 seconds. Sound signals when crossing paths. Changing Directions sound: Correct Answer: Changing Direction: 52 -One short blast tells other boaters "I intend to pass you on my port (left) side." -Two short blasts tell other boaters "I intend to pass you on my starboard (right) side." -Three short blasts tell other boaters, "I am operating astern propulsion." For some vessels, this tells other boaters, "I am backing up." Restricted Visibility sounds: Correct Answer: -One prolonged blast at intervals of not more than two minutes is the signal used by power-driven vessels when underway. -One prolonged blast plus two short blasts at intervals of not more than two minutes is the signal used by sailing vessels. Warning sounds: Correct Answer: -One prolonged blast is a warning signal (for example, used when coming around a blind bend or exiting a slip). -Five (or more) short, rapid blasts signal danger or signal that you do not understand or that you disagree with the other boater's intentions. Skier Down Flag: 53 Correct Answer: State law requires that operators of a motorboat (other than a PWC) on the waters of the Mississippi River, the Missouri River, or Missouri lakes between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and sunset must clearly display a red or orange flag whenever a person enters the water before or after being towed on water skis or other similar devices. The flag must be at least 12 inches x 12 inches in size. The flag should not be displayed while the vessel is underway towing the person(s) on water skis or other similar devices. PWCs and moored or anchored motorboats are exempt from displaying the skier-down flag. Vessel operators must not operate within 50 yards of a displayed skier-down flag. Use of Fireworks: Correct Answer: State law prohibits the igniting or discharge of fireworks by persons on board vessels, except in the case where a display permit has been issued. Also, persons may not throw or place any ignited fireworks into a vessel or near any other person. This prohibition does not include the proper use of pyrotechnic visual distress signals. Dock Signs: Correct Answer: Dock owners on Missouri lakes managed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers and on Lake of the Ozarks must post an emergency address on the 54 dock. The intent of this law is to aid in the location of and reduce the response times for emergency and non-emergency calls on the water. The address should be posted on the lake side of the dock facing the water using a minimum of three-inch lettering. The address should give a street address or emergency 911 address closest to the dock along with a zip code. Requirements Specific to PWC: Correct Answer: In addition to adhering to all boating laws, personal watercraft (PWC) operators have requirements specific to their vessel. Everyone on board a PWC while underway must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved Type I, II, III, or V personal flotation device (PFD). An operator of a PWC equipped with lanyard-type ignition safety switch must attach the lanyard to his or her person, clothing, or PFD. PWCs are exempt from displaying the skier-down flag. The age you can drive the PWC: Correct Answer: You must be at least 14 years of age to operate a PWC, unless a supervising person at least 16 years of age is also on board the personal watercraft. PWC Instructions: 55 Correct Answer: PWC jumping wake of a boat Personal watercraft operators must obey all boating laws and also must obey additional laws that apply only to PWCs. It is illegal to operate a personal watercraft while you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. PWCs must operate in a careful and responsible manner. Specifically, it is illegal for PWC operators to: Weave the PWC through congested waterway traffic. Jump the wake of another motorboat when visibility is obstructed. Become airborne while crossing the wake of another motorboat and within 100 feet of that motorboat. Operate at greater than "slow, no wake" speed within 50 feet of any other vessel, PWC, or person in the water. Operate in a manner that requires swerving at the last possible moment to avoid collision. 56 Also, it is strongly recommended that PWCs are operated only during daylight hours. If a PWC is operated at night (sunset to sunrise), the PWC must display the required navigation lights. PWC Towing Instructions: Correct Answer: Every motorboat or PWC towing a person(s) on water skis, a wakeboard, or any device other than a parasail must have either: A person on board, in addition to the operator, observing the towed person(s) at all times (preferably the observer is at least 12 years old) or... An approved ski mirror that is at least three inches in height and eight inches in length, gives 180 degrees of vision behind the operator, and is designed as a ski mirror. The Missouri State Highway Patrol does not recognize the manufacturer's mirrors on personal watercraft as being sufficient for this purpose. Every motorboat or PWC towing a parasailer must have a person at least 12 years old on board, in addition to the operator, actively observing the parasailer. It is strongly recommended that all persons being towed behind a motorboat or PWC on water skis or any other device wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD. Ski belts are not U.S. Coast Guard-approved. Skier- Flag Down Requirements: Correct Answer: An operator of a motorboat (other than a PWC) on the waters of the Mississippi River, the Missouri River, or Missouri lakes between the hours of 11:00 a.m. 57 and sunset must clearly display a skier-down flag whenever the towed person(s) is in the water. A rectangular orange or red flag, at least 12 inches x 12 inches, must be displayed when the person is in the water before or after being towed. The flag should not be displayed while the motorboat is engaged in towing but should be displayed again when the towed person enters the water. PWCs and moored or anchored motorboats are exempt from this requirement. Towing A Person With A Vessel Legally: Correct Answer: Wakeboarder being towed by a boat Persons may be towed behind a motorboat or PWC on water skis, a wakeboard, a parasail, or any other device only during daylight hours (sunrise to sunset). A reasonable distance from other vessels, people, and property must be maintained so as not to endanger life or property. It is illegal to cause the person being towed to collide with any object or person. It is against Missouri law to operate water skis, wake boards, or other such devices while intoxicated. Polluting Disposal Laws: 58 Correct Answer: It is illegal to discharge waste, oil, or trash into any state or federally controlled waters. This is for very good reasons. Sewage carries disease and is harmful to people, aquatic plants, and animals. Trash thrown into the water can injure swimmers and wildlife alike. It also can plug engine cooling water intakes. Pollution is unsightly and takes away from your enjoyment of the water. The Refuse Act: Correct Answer: Vessel operators need to be aware of the following regulations for waste, oil, and trash disposal that apply to both federally controlled and state waters. The Refuse Act prohibits throwing, discharging, or depositing any refuse matter of any kind (including trash, garbage, oil, and other liquid pollutants) into the waters of the United States. Discharge of Sewage and Waste: Correct Answer: If you have a recreational vessel with installed toilet facilities, it must have an operable marine sanitation device (MSD) on board. There are three types of MSDs. Types I and II MSDs are usually found on large vessels. Waste is treated with special chemicals to kill bacteria before the waste is discharged. Types I and II MSDs with "Y" 59 valves that would direct the waste overboard must be secured so that the valve cannot be opened. This can be done by placing a lock or non-reusable seal on the "Y" valve or by taking the handle off the "Y" valve. Type III MSDs provide no treatment and are either holding tanks or portable toilets. Collected waste should be taken ashore and disposed of in a pump-out station or onshore toilet. Houseboats must have a waste-water holding system to prevent the discharge of waste into surrounding waters. Missouri law prohibits discharge of any sewage, treated or untreated, into the state's freshwaters. All installed devices must be U.S. Coast Guard-certified. Pump-Out Station Marine Sanitation Device diagram Pump-Out Station Sign Pump-Out Station sign Signs like these are posted at pump-out stations in Missouri. Discharge Of Trash: Correct Answer: The Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships places limitations on the discharge of garbage from vessels. It is illegal to dump refuse, garbage, or plastics into any state or federally controlled waters. Many forms of litter can kill birds, fish, and marine mammals. 60 You must store trash in a container while on board and place it in a proper receptacle after returning to shore. If boating on federally controlled waters and your vessel is 26 feet or longer, you must display a Garbage Disposal Placard in a prominent location. The Garbage Disposal Placard is a durable sign that is at least 4 x 9 inches and notifies passengers and crew about discharge restrictions. navigable waterway Correct Answer: Any navigable river, lake, or other body of water. Missouri Law Regarding Glass containers and Trash: Correct Answer: The following restrictions apply to any vessel that is easily susceptible to swamping, tipping, or rolling (such as a canoe, kayak, or inner tube) and is carrying foodstuffs or beverages while operating on any of Missouri's navigable waterways. No one may have or use glass containers within a vessel (prescribed drugs are excepted). All persons using a cooler, icebox, or containers other than glass for foodstuffs and beverages must: Ensure that the container is sealed to prevent the contents from spilling into the water. Affix to the vessel a container or bag, capable of being securely closed, to contain their trash. 61 Transport all of their trash to a place where the materials may be disposed of safely and lawfully. Safely secure any glass containers to prevent breaking or falling overboard. Discharge of Oil and Other Hazardous Substances: Correct Answer: Regulations issued under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act require all vessels with propulsion machinery to be able to retain oil mixtures on board. You are not allowed to discharge oil or hazardous substances. The penalty for illegal discharge may be a fine of up to $10,000. You are not allowed to dump oil into the bilge of the vessel without means for proper disposal. Fuel spills can be removed using absorbent bilge pads. You must dispose of oil waste at an approved reception facility. On recreational vessels, a bucket or bailer is adequate for temporary storage prior to disposing of the oil waste at an approved facility. You must notify the National Response Center immediately if your vessel discharges oil or hazardous substances in the water. Call toll-free . Report the discharge's location, color, source, substances, size, and time observed. You also must call the Missouri Division of Environmental Quality and report the discharge. Discharge of Oil Placard: Correct Answer: If boating on federally controlled waters and your vessel is 26 feet or longer, you must display a 5 x 8-inch placard made of durable material, fixed in a 62 conspicuous place in the machinery spaces or at the bilge pump control station, stating the following: Discharge of Oil Prohibited The Federal Water Pollution Control Act prohibits the discharge of oil or oily waste upon or into any navigable waters of the U.S. The prohibition includes any discharge which causes a film or discoloration of the surface of the water or causes a sludge or emulsion beneath the surface of the water. Violators are subject to substantial civil and/or criminal sanctions including fines and imprisonment. Waste Management Plan: Correct Answer: -Ocean-going vessels that are 40 feet or more in length with cooking and sleeping facilities must have a written Waste Management Plan. The captain of the vessel is responsible for implementing the Waste Management Plan. -The Waste Management Plan, identifying the vessel's name and home port, should be posted and should include directives to all persons on board about: -Discharging sewage and hazardous substances -Discharging garbage and other food waste -Disposing of plastics, bottles, and cans Reading applicable placards for additional information. -Advising the captain in case of oily discharges or diesel spills. What you have to do when you get in a boating accident: 63 Correct Answer: It is the duty of any operator involved in a boating accident to render all necessary aid and assistance, so far as is possible without endangering his or her own passengers or vessel. An operator will be guilty of leaving the scene of a vessel accident if he or she knows injury or damage has occurred as a result of the accident, but he or she fails to stop and give the other party or a law enforcement officer the following information: His or her name and address The vessel registration number His or her driver's license number. Reporting an accident: Correct Answer: Most reports of accidents must be made within 5 days of the accident. However, you must file an accident report within 48 hours if a person dies or is injured as a result of the accident. The operator also must file an accident report with the Missouri State Highway Patrol if: A person dies or disappears or... An injury occurs causing any person to lose consciousness, require medical treatment, or be disabled for more than 24 hours or... Damage to the vessel and other property exceeds $500. 64 Overboard Correct Answer: Over the side or out of the vessel. Teak Surfing Correct Answer: dragging or water-skiing within 20 feet of a moving vessel can be fatal. If persons are using a swim platform or are close to the stern, all gasoline-powered