Running Aground

Groundings can lead to fatalities, injuries, and significant property damage. Therefore, it’s critical to follow proper precautions and procedures to prevent or handle them effectively when they occur. Here’s what you need to know:

Preventing Groundings

• Familiarize Yourself with the Waters: Knowing the waters where you boat is important. Use appropriate navigation electronic equipment and carry local charts or maps.
• Monitor Weather Conditions: Changing wind and water conditions affect vessels differently. Always be aware of the weather and plan your trip accordingly.
• Be Aware of Tides: Tides can significantly affect water depth. Tides can rise or fall 30 feet or more in some locations, leading to groundings.

Procedures in the Event of a Grounding

• Stop the Engine: If your boat is grounded, you should first stop the engine to prevent further damage.
• Account for all Passengers: Take a headcount to make sure nobody is overboard.
• Assess the Situation: Check the people onboard for injuries. Determine if your vessel is taking on water and assess for other damage.
• Lift the Outdrive: If applicable, lift the Outdrive to prevent it from getting damaged.
• Set a Kedge Anchor: This will keep you from being pushed further aground.
• Check the Water Depth: Use a lead line or boat hook to check the water depth around you.
• Check Your Chart: Look at your chart for bottom characteristics to understand what you’ve run aground on.
• Check the Tide Tables: Determine the next high tide. If it’s soon, you may be able to float free without outside assistance.
• Seek Assistance: If you’re not taking on water, determine if you can safely free the vessel or need outside assistance.

The key to handling groundings is to stay calm, assess the situation, and take appropriate action based on your assessment.