THE CAPTAIN'S SIX-PACK

These questions are from the “Getting Started” section of the US Power Squadrons boating course. See if you get them all right.

1. What do the letters PASS mean when used to describe the operation of a fire extinguisher?

A. Pull the pin, aim at the top of the fire, squeeze the handle, and spray with short bursts so as to conserve the extinguishing agent.

B. Pull the pin, aim at the base of the fire, squeeze the handle for short bursts, and spray at the top of the fire.

C. Pull the safety pin, aim at the base of the fire, squeeze the handle, and sweep the extinguisher side to side while aiming at the base of the fire.

D. Pull the pin, aim at the base of the fire, squeeze the handle, and spray at the edge of the fire.

2. What condition renders a life jacket unserviceable?

A. It is discolored but still airtight. B. It has a torn strap.

C. It has been immersed in salt water.

D. It has been stained with oil.

3. What is an advantage of pistol-fired red meteor aerial flares over handheld red flares?

A. Burn longer

B. Burn in a pulsing SOS mode

C. Are visible for a longer distance D. Are suitable only for daylight use

4. How many portable fire extinguishers are required aboard an 18-foot powerboat with installed fuel tanks but with no fixed fire-suppression system?

A. None

B. One

C. Two

D. Three

5. What is the next step after running the engine-compartment blower for at least four minutes, and before starting the inboard gasoline engine?

A. Close all engine-compartment vents before starting the engine.

B. Open the compartment cover and sniff for traces of gasoline fumes.

C. Grab a VHF radio in case a distress call must be made.

D. Turn off the blower for at least one minute before starting the engine.

6. Which category of life jacket is designed to turn an unconscious person face up in the water? A. Offshore/Type I B. Nearshore/Type II

C. Flotation Aid/Type III

D. Special Use Devices/Type V