On a boat sudden flooding calls for fast action, so be prepared. Most of the supplies and tools for flood damage control may already be at hand. There are pre-assembled damage control kits available for purchase through commercial dealers, but you may need to add some of the following to supplement your on board emergency kit:
- Plugs and patching material: wooden wedges and tapered wooden plugs in a variety of sizes to match the boat’s thru-hull fittings; an assortment of rubber sheets and gasket material; rags, waterproof putty, and other filler for stuffing in and around patches for a better seal.
- Fasteners to hold the patch in place: hose clamps, nylon ties, twine, grease tape, fiberglass tape, and duct tape.
- Tools to make it all happen: screwdrivers, a hacksaw, an adjustable wrench, pipe wrench, nut driver, and a hammer. These are not just to help patch the hole but to help close watertight fittings, shut down machinery that could make a flooded area hazardous, and close off drains and discharges that can siphon water into the boat if they sink below the water line. Also, since bilge pumps aren’t designed to handle the large volumes of water caused by a hole in the hull, a dewatering pump is a recommended investment.
All of these, along with other emergency kit components, need to be in a container that’s clearly marked and close at hand. Attach a flashlight to the handle should an accident happen at night, and make sure everyone on board knows where the emergency kit is located.
Vessel damage control training is widely available through the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, United States Power Squadrons and other boating groups; your marina manager, local state boating officials, or U.S. Coast Guard office can direct you to course offerings nearby.
The most important thing is not to let the situation get away from you. Let others in the area know your vessel is taking on water. Notify the Coast Guard via Channel 16 VHF FM and apprise them of your situation. You may only get one chance to make this call. Make it quickly.
The U.S. Coast Guard reminds all boaters to “Boat Responsibly!” For more information and tips on boating safety, visit uscgboating.org.
