OutdoorNebraska

34 ■ Chapter 4 Sound-Producing Devices A sound-producing device is essential in periods of reduced visibility or whenever a vessel operator needs to signal his or her intentions or position. For example, sound signals are required when meeting head-on, crossing, and overtaking (described in Chapter 3). Unnecessary sounding of whistles, horns, bells, or other sound-producing devices is prohibited. ◆ On Nebraska state waters, requirements for sound-producing devices are: • All vessels less than 26 feet in length, which includes PWCs, must have an efficient whistle, horn, or other sound-producing device. • All vessels 26 feet or longer must have a bell and an efficient horn or other sound-producing device. ◆ On federally controlled waters, requirements for sound-producing devices are: • All vessels less than 20 meters (65.6 ft.) in length, which includes PWCs, must have a mouth-, hand-, or power-operated whistle or horn, or some other means to make an efficient sound signal. • All vessels that are 20 meters (65.6 ft.) or more in length must have a bell and a whistle or horn. ◆ No vessel may be equipped with a siren, except vessels used by law enforcement officers. Other Equipment and Regulations ◆ Diver-Down Flags: Persons scuba diving, skin diving, snorkeling or under- water spearfishing must display a red and white Divers Flag to warn other boaters. A diver or underwater spear-fisherman must stay within 150 feet of the flag. It is unlawful to display a Divers Flag when not diving. Vessels not engaged in diving operations must remain at least 150 feet away from a displayed flag. The "diver-down" flags are: • A rectangular red flag with a white diagonal stripe that is one-fifth the width of the flag. The stripe must run from the top of the hoist to the bottom of the flag. The flag must be at least 12 inches square and mounted on a float or buoy. • A blue and white International Code Flag A (or Alfa flag), flown from a vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver. This flag indicates that a vessel is involved in a diving activity. ◆ Skier-Down Flag: Nebraska law requires that vessels towing person(s) on water-skis or similar devices carry a bright orange "skier down" flag, at least 12 inches square or at least 144 square inches in size. ◆ Oars: An oar or paddle must be carried on all vessels, except personal water- craft, sailboards, or similar devices and motorboats 26 feet or longer. ◆ Bailing Bucket: A bailing bucket, efficient bilge pump, or sponge must be carried on all vessels, except personal watercraft, sailboards, or similar devices. ◆ Marine Events: Apply to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to obtain authorization for regattas, motorboat, or other boat races, marine parades, tournaments, or exhibitions to be held on state-controlled waters. • The person in charge of the event must file an application with the Commission at least 30 days in advance of the event. • The application must state the date, time, and location of the event. • For events held on federally controlled waters, such as the Missouri River, application must be filed 30 days in advance with the U.S. Coast Guard. ◆ Local Regulations: Many local waterways in Nebraska have specific equipment and operational restrictions in addition to those covered in this chapter. Be sure to check the Nebraska Boating Guide for local regulations before you go out. Scuba divers and snorkelers should not place a flag in an area already occupied by other boaters or where their diving operation will impede the normal flow of waterway traffic. Divers also should follow all of the water safety rules themselves. Common Sound Signals Some common sound signals that you should be familiar with as a recreational boater are as follows. Changing Direction • 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 backing up." Restricted Visibility • 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 • 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. Divers Flag Alfa Flag Copyright © 2014 Boat Ed, www.boat-ed.com

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