Contributor: Carefree Boat Club of Southern CT
On behalf of the entire staff at Carefree Boat Club of Southern CT, I would like to wish you all a happy and safe holiday weekend. The waterways will be busy, so please take extra care while out on the water throughout the upcoming days.
CLICK HERE to access the Member Handbook – it is a reference guide for all members covering a range of topics and answers to questions that staff receives. To name just a few of the topics that the handbook addresses: dock contact information, boat safety, water sports equipment information, spur of the moment reservations and much more.
The Member Handbook has been a link included in each newsletter we have published, so some members may have it readily available. Revisions have been made, however, so please familiarize yourself with this updated copy. A new section is titled “Long Island Embassy Guide” which is a great reference book and will be available for members to purchase. Please take the time to read the handbook in its entirety and refer to it for valuable information or answers to your questions.
On another subject – our dock staff has a request. When members arrive for their reservation and member and staff are going through the check-out process, it is important that staff has the attention of the captain, first mate and crew. The check-out process, as you know, is a “safety check” and includes staff explaining the navigation system, location of life jackets and departing and returning to the dock safely by following the channel. Additionally, prior to returning the dock be sure to let staff know you are returning so they are ready to assist you when docking. Again, it is important that as the captain you follow the staff instructions and have your first mate and crew paying attention so they are ready to assist for a safe docking maneuver.
What kind of captain are you? You are responsible for the safety of your crew, the boat you are operating and those other boats that operate around you. A good captain will have thought through his or her plan and will have contingencies should the situation change. Situational awareness is critical to enjoying yourself and providing a fun and safe outing for your family and friends.
Happy 4th of July! We wish you an enjoyable holiday weekend and a safe and fun boating season!
