Tips to Stay Afloat in the California Delta: What To Do If Your Boat Is Taking On Water
If you find yourself on a boat that is taking on water, it's essential to act calmly and quickly to ensure the safety of yourself and others on board. Here are the steps you should take:
Stay Calm
Panic can make the situation worse. Clear thinking is essential in this emergency.
Put on Life Jackets
If you're not already wearing life jackets, immediately put them on. Ensure that everyone on board has a properly fitted life jacket.
Bilge Pumps
Manually engage all bilge pumps. Dump or empty all water tanks and ballasts to raise boat level.
Call for Help
Use your cell phone or marine VHF radi.o to call for help. Provide your exact location, the number of people on board, and any other relevant information
BoatUS: Contact BoatUS [TowBoatUS] to activate on-water towing service - 24/7/365 assistance for boaters in need.
BEST METHOD - Mobile App: If you download their BoatUS Mobile App, one push of a button connects you and provides your location to their crew.
Phone/Nearby Company Locator: You can use your phone to call the closest TowBoatUS Company listed in their online service locator.
VHF: If you prefer VHF, hail “TowBoatUS” on Channel 16.
USCG : Use your VHF to contact the US Coast Guard. Look up the local USCG number if needed.
Plug Leak(s) / Hole(s)
If you know where the water is coming in and it's safe to do so, try to plug the leaks using any available materials, such as clothing or towels. For larger boats, close sea cocks and use plugs as well.
Bail the Water
Start bailing the water with a bailing device, bucket or cups; don't underestimate the value of a motivated person with a bucket.
Throw the Anchor
If there is a sandbar / island nearby and you can get there safely under the boat's power, then throw the anchor. If you are not comfortable, or cannot move the boat, throw out the anchor immediately. This keeps you off the rocks and in one place where the current won’t cause you to drift off.
Activate Distress Signals
Use flares, smoke signals, whistles, flashing lights or any other emergency signaling devices you have on board to attract attention of rescuers or other boaters. Make sure you're familiar with how to use these devices before setting out on the water.
Prepare to Abandon Ship
If it becomes clear that the boat is going to sink, prepare to abandon ship. Ensure that everyone has a life jacket on and gather any essential supplies like food, water, and a first aid kit.
Stay Together
It's crucial to stay together as a group if you have multiple people on board. This makes it easier for rescuers to find you.
Stay Warm
Stay as dry and warm as possible. Huddle together for warmth if necessary. Hypothermia can be a significant risk in cold water / weather.
Wait for Rescue
It may take some time for rescuers to arrive. Be patient and conserve your energy while awaiting assistance.
As a last resort, if you are out of time and the boat still has power, consider driving the boat onto a sandbar, soft shoreline, or an island and wait there for help. Remember that safety and survival should be your top priorities in a sinking boat situation. Preparation is key, so it's advisable to take boating safety courses, have proper safety equipment on board, and create an emergency plan with your crew before setting out on the water. Additionally, always check weather conditions and have a communication plan in place.
Notes on BoatUS: BoatUS is a reliable tow service with an amazing reputation. They offer Non-Member and Member pricing. A Non-Member tow cost range is $250 - $400/hr. (based on several factors) whereas a membership will pay for itself if you have one tow every 5 to 10 years.
Check out their website here: https://www.boatus.com/products-and-services/boat-towing
Credits To:
Short YouTube video produced by BoatUS “How to Call for A Boat Tow”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=e9vh0jX_Qd0
Facebook page for one of the BoatUS locations (SF/Delta): https://www.facebook.com/VesselAssistSanFranciscoBayandDelta/