Going from motorboat to pontoon boat to kayak, in the water and on trailers, Examiner Jim Arpin of the Greenwich Bay Power Squadron gave one-on-one advice to Manchaug Pond boaters from the state ramp, the neighboring campgrounds, and living on the shore and neighboring towns.
This year boaters’ big three concerns were:
- the need to check expiration dates on flares and fire extinguishers
- the use of block letters only for hull registration number
- and the need for a whistles or some other signaling devise for kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats.
Further, a boater living on the lake shared that he was stopped by Environmental Police last fall, boarded and inspected, and given a written warning for not having a throwable PFD (personal floatation device) for his over 16ft pontoon boat.
This year, all boats passed with flying colors receiving the orange 2014 sticker and their written evaluation sheet allowing them to follow up with the suggestions where they see fit.
Email ManchaugPondSecretary@gmail.com if you would like an examiner to help you get your boat all safe and legal – we can meet you at the boat ramp or come right to your dock some Saturday morning. There is no charge and no limit on the boats you have check. It is a great opportunity to assure your boat, canoe, kayak or personal watercraft is safe and has all the right equipment.