SRT WaterKrafts Rules

Just as drivers must understand the rules of the road, boat captains need to understand boat safety rules to navigate safely so as to avoid collisions or running aground on the water. Always travel at a safe speed and constantly keep a look out for others. It’s essential that you familiarize yourself with and abide by the U.S. Aids to Navigation System maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard.  You can download a copy of the U.S. Coast Guard’s Aids to Navigation brochure here:  https://www.uscgboating.org/regulations/navigation-rules.php  
 

You also need to know the weather and water conditions on the day of your trip. This includes air temperatures and wind conditions.  Be sure to check the weather forecast before you go for longer than the time you expect to be out on the water. Take extra care in colder water.  You may not head out or start back in the timeframe you’re expecting, and you don’t want to get caught in a bad storm or rough waters.   
 

It’s important to learn about the lake where you’re going to be navigating. Keep tabs on under currents and keep the pontoon within marked channels.  Also, be aware of the presence of local infrastructure and utilities such as bridges, overhead wires, underwater cables, white water, and low head dams. Remember to always travel at a safe speed, know your limitations and those of the pontoon you have rented.
 

No one wants to think that he or she could become incapacitated while out on the water, but it has happened, and the potential is there. That’s why it’s vital that you choose someone you trust and who also understands boating safety rules to take control of the pontoon in the event of an emergency – and that you ensure that he or she knows how to call for help and what to do until it arrives.
 

Please inform the team at SRT WaterKrafts and tell a family member or friend of your plans. It’s important to let someone know where you’re headed on the lake and when you expect to be back. SRT requires that you give them a list of passengers, your itinerary, and cell phone numbers for the phones you are carrying before you depart.  Be sure to let family and friends know that you and your guests arrived back safely.
 

Running out of fuel is the leading cause of boating emergencies. Be sure your tank is full before you leave and follow the Rule of Thirds. Use one-third of your fuel to reach your intended destination and one-third to get back. Reserve the final third in case of an emergency.
 

Safety Equipment: You will have the following on board with you; confirm that it works, and make sure your passengers know where it is and how to use it.

• Life Jackets – One for every person on board. U.S. Coast Guard interim rule requires children under 13 on moving boats to wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket that fits. We strongly suggest everyone wears their life vest at all times.

• Throwable Flotation Device Attached to a Line – to help your passengers or anyone else in trouble in the water.

• Sound Devices – there is a horn that you can blast when needed.  It can be heard at least a half mile away, so please be respectful of those living on or enjoying the lake.

• Navigation Lights – You have all navigation lights that are required for pontoon, as well as decorative lights to enjoy.  They have all been checked prior to your departure to make sure they’re in working order.

• Radio – You have a VHF radio on board with Bluetooth capabilities to monitor weather updates.

• Flashlight and Spare Batteries – You won’t get caught in the dark! You are carrying a working flashlight as well as spare batteries.

• Flares – Are stored in a dry place.

• First Aid Kit – Cuts, scratches, burns, bug bites and other mishaps happen. There is a fully stocked, standard first-aid kit to help treat and keep wounds clean and protected until you return to shore.  Please be sure to let SRT staff know if you have had to use items in the Kit so that they can replenish them for the next group.

• Sunscreen – Your souvenir from a great day on the water shouldn’t be a sunburn. Please bring your own supply of sunscreen for you and all your guests.

• Fire extinguisher – There is an accessible extinguisher on board that meets U.S. Coast Guard requirements for the pontoon. Make sure you know where it is.

• Towline – There is an appropriate length of nylon line on board to use as a towline, as well as bumpers and an anchor.
   

The pontoon has been properly maintained and checked prior to your departure.  The batteries are fully charged. All safety equipment has been checked.  Should you have any issues during your time on the lake, immediately notify SRT WaterKrafts at 414-940-3427.  
 

It’s no secret that many people like to enjoy alcoholic beverages, legal, and illegal drugs while they’re out on the water. The person piloting the pontoon shouldn’t be one of them. Just like a designated driver on the roads, the skipper should skip the alcohol and drugs. Avoid alcohol and illegal drugs when boating.
 

Finally, Have Fun!  If you’ve made following boating safety rules a priority and have taken the time to prepare properly, you and your guests should have a safe and enjoyable trip! At SRT WaterKrafts, we want you and your friends to be safe and enjoy your time on the water.  Beyond providing these simple rules, how can we help you?  We’re here for you!!