The "Maiden Voyage" of the Sinking Boat.
On March 27, 2003, we had our 5th week of our boating safety class at the Brillion Community Center in Brillion, Wisconsin. This night we "launched" the sinking boat. Since this was the first time we had used this in our boating safety class, it was unknown how fast the boat would sink. Ideal time would be between 10-15 seconds.
Students are Loaded Up For a Wet Ride.
We loaded 3 students at a time inthe sinking boat. We had two students sit in the rear to increase the draft at the stern and push the PVC pipe farther underwater so the water would flow in faster. PFDs were placed in a plastic bag and some of them were tangled up making the PFD difficult to put on. There were also various objects in the boat that would float. The caps were removed and water began to flow into the boat. Soon the students realized that they had to put on a PFD and how dificult it was to don a PFD in a panic situation.
The Boat Goes Down.
As the boat began to sink, the students realized that they soon would be up to their knees in water.
Here It Goes!!!
Doing what it was modified to do, the sinking boat goes down teaching the students ALWAYS WEAR YOUR PFD!!!
Here's Another Crew Going Under.
We had a geat time in the Brillion pool, but we also learned a good lesson. 90% of those who die in boating accidents would be alive if they had worn their PFD. The most important piece of equipment a boater can have is a PFD. However the best PFD will not work unless you wear it. ALWAYS WEAR YOUR PFD!!!
I'd like to help you out.
If you would like help building or modifying a boat to sink, please contact me. I would be more than happy to help you out in any way I can.
