OUI Checkpoint

[SRice]

Anybody on RDP interested in volunteering on a AZGFD sobriety checkpoint? Folks from LHMA have helped in the past and I asked the coordinator how she would feel about inmate volunteers. They have the personnel they need for the next checkpoint (stay tuned, I'm sure It will show up here soon), but she indicated she'd be wiling to route interested boaters to their volunteer coordinator. I think it might be the best opportunity for a couple of you to see what we all do as you help hold boats, take notes, and give TShirts to kids you find wearing their PFDs. May even help get a couple bad actors off our river. PM me if you'd like Velma's contact info.

 

[Spectra18]

Anybody on RDP interested in volunteering on a AZGFD sobriety checkpoint? Folks from LHMA have helped in the past and I asked the coordinator how she would feel about inmate volunteers. They have the personnel they need for the next checkpoint (stay tuned, I'm sure It will show up here soon), but she indicated she'd be wiling to route interested boaters to their volunteer coordinator. I think it might be the best opportunity for a couple of you to see what we all do as you help hold boats, take notes, and give TShirts to kids you find wearing their PFDs. May even help get a couple bad actors off our river. PM me if you'd like Velma's contact info.

Rather go on a counter mission against BLM.

 

[Bradsrvrtoy.]

Anybody on RDP interested in volunteering on a AZGFD sobriety checkpoint? Folks from LHMA have helped in the past and I asked the coordinator how she would feel about inmate volunteers. They have the personnel they need for the next checkpoint (stay tuned, I'm sure It will show up here soon), but she indicated she'd be wiling to route interested boaters to their volunteer coordinator. I think it might be the best opportunity for a couple of you to see what we all do as you help hold boats, take notes, and give TShirts to kids you find wearing their PFDs. May even help get a couple bad actors off our river. PM me if you'd like Velma's contact info.

When and where is it?

 

[Advantage 1]

Anybody on RDP interested in volunteering on a AZGFD sobriety checkpoint? Folks from LHMA have helped in the past and I asked the coordinator how she would feel about inmate volunteers. They have the personnel they need for the next checkpoint (stay tuned, I'm sure It will show up here soon), but she indicated she'd be wiling to route interested boaters to their volunteer coordinator. I think it might be the best opportunity for a couple of you to see what we all do as you help hold boats, take notes, and give TShirts to kids you find wearing their PFDs. May even help get a couple bad actors off our river. PM me if you'd like Velma's contact info.

I posted my email from AZGFD about an hour ago

I won't be leaving Oceanside this weekend, but I would like to talk about this... maybe for time in the future.

Feel better.

Joe

 

[McRib]

When and where is it?

lol. good luck with that question.

 

[SRice]

When and where is it??

To my knowledge the details on upcoming events have not yet been released to the public, though I believe AZGFD does typically do a press release identifying the body of water and a range of dates when they will be out. Havasu News Herald did have an article like that in advance of the recent Site Six OUI checkpoint. In the meantime, it's a good opportunity to ensure you have your current paper vessel registration, a properly fitting PFD for everyone on board (kids not wearing a child PFD is an almost sure ticket), a Type IV throwable PFD, a functional and pressurized Fire extinguisher (or more than one depending on your size- check your safety pins too), and a sound producing device (per 33 CFR, your wives do not count). Also of course, we strongly promote Designated Drivers and appreciate it when a boater honestly informs us that he is acting as a DD. When there is no evidence of impairment the goal it to complete checks within about five minutes so the public is not too inconvenienced. Boaters not carrying all of the required equipment are likely to be cited and ordered back to the marina to get what they are lacking (and probably spend a lot more than they would have by stoping at Walmart on the way to the marina). Here's a link to AZGFDs page but I'll have to leave it to them to release more detailed info- if I see a press release I'll link it too.

http://azgfd.net/artman/publish/New...agency-OUI-checkpoint-on-Colorado-River.shtml

 

[SRice]

I posted my email from AZGFD about an hour ago

I won't be leaving Oceanside this weekend, but I would like to talk about this... maybe for time in the future.

Feel better.

Joe

There you go- now you at least know a general when and where. Thanks, Joe.

 

[BHC Vic]

I'd be willing to volunteer. I won't know if I'll be there this weekend till tomorrow of Friday though.

 

[Meaney77]

I Think its pretty cool that you come on here and look for volunteers to show the process. Disregard what peoples views are on drinking and operating boats, safety check points, etc... I think it would be a pretty good eye opening experience to see what you guys see on a daily basis- kind of like ride along with the local cops in your neighborhood. I think it might change a few peoples views on drinking and driving after seeing a few drunk donkeys come through.

 

[Bigbore500r]

Sounds like a good opportunity for some people on here, I'd like to read a write-up on a RDP's members take of how the operation went and what they experienced.

 

[SoCalDave]

To my knowledge the details on upcoming events have not yet been released to the public, though I believe AZGFD does typically do a press release identifying the body of water and a range of dates when they will be out. Havasu News Herald did have an article like that in advance of the recent Site Six OUI checkpoint. In the meantime, it's a good opportunity to ensure you have your current paper vessel registration, a properly fitting PFD for everyone on board (kids not wearing a child PFD is an almost sure ticket), a Type IV throwable PFD, a functional and pressurized Fire extinguisher (or more than one depending on your size- check your safety pins too), and a sound producing device (per 33 CFR, your wives do not count). Also of course, we strongly promote Designated Drivers and appreciate it when a boater honestly informs us that he is acting as a DD. When there is no evidence of impairment the goal it to complete checks within about five minutes so the public is not too inconvenienced. Boaters not carrying all of the required equipment are likely to be cited and ordered back to the marina to get what they are lacking (and probably spend a lot more than they would have by stoping at Walmart on the way to the marina). Here's a link to AZGFDs page but I'll have to leave it to them to release more detailed info- if I see a press release I'll link it too.

http://azgfd.net/artman/publish/New...agency-OUI-checkpoint-on-Colorado-River.shtml

That link is from May of this year.

The following link says it will be this weekend so be for-warned.

http://azgfd.net/artman/publish/New...ucting-OUI-checkpoint-on-Colorado-River.shtml

 

[JD D05]

Does a engine bay halon system count as a fire extinguisher?

 

[SoCalDave]

Does a engine bay halon system count as a fire extinguisher?

No

 

[That Guy]

I think this is a great opportunity to embrace Dave's idea of working together versus against one another and learn from both sides. While the legality/necessity/need will always be debated regarding these checkpoints, I'd be up for helping out so that I can see first hand what goes on.....Thanks S Rice....

 

[Bigbore500r]

Does a engine bay halon system count as a fire extinguisher?

My buddy got a ticket in his 28' boat, he had a halon system in the engine compartment, but only 1 portable fire extinguisher. They said he needed 2 portables regardless in a boat that size

 

[SRice]

Does a engine bay halon system count as a fire extinguisher?

If you're 26' or greater and need two, it counts as one. However, you are still required to have a handheld fire extinguisher on the boat in addition. Basically any boat that does not have a gas tank that you can quickly detach and throw overboard needs at least one typ B1 fire extinguisher. Page 5 of http://www.azgfd.gov/pdfs/outdoor_recreation/boating_laws.pdf for best info.

 

[SRice]

My buddy got a ticket in his 28' boat, he had a halon system in the engine compartment, but only 1 portable fire extinguisher. They said he needed 2 portables regardless in a boat that size

For a 28' boat with Halon and one B1 portable, I believe that officer was mistaken. See http://www.azgfd.gov/pdfs/outdoor_recreation/boating_laws.pdf page 5.

 

[DaBank]

Anybody on RDP interested in volunteering on a AZGFD sobriety checkpoint? Folks from LHMA have helped in the past and I asked the coordinator how she would feel about inmate volunteers. They have the personnel they need for the next checkpoint (stay tuned, I'm sure It will show up here soon), but she indicated she'd be wiling to route interested boaters to their volunteer coordinator. I think it might be the best opportunity for a couple of you to see what we all do as you help hold boats, take notes, and give TShirts to kids you find wearing their PFDs. May even help get a couple bad actors off our river. PM me if you'd like Velma's contact info.

This is a awesome offer you are extending. I think boater's helping out will not also help LEO officers understand that stopping a boat is different than a vehicle. Everyone is already on edge in either situation even if they know they are not breaking the law. The difference with a boat is most people don't worry the officer is going to damage there car when pulled over but on a boat that is a huge FEAR and that causes tension right off the bat. If a boater feels thier property will be treated with respect the situation will be better for both side's. I have seen officers treat boats with disrespect either no knowing or not caring. I only been stopped twice on inland lake's and each time I walk permission to board there vessel and push my boat away. My wife then held up all safety requirements as they questioned me and looked at my paperwork.

 

[JD D05]

If you're 26' or greater and need two, it counts as one. However, you are still required to have a handheld fire extinguisher on the boat in addition. Basically any boat that does not have a gas tank that you can quickly detach and throw overboard needs at least one typ B1 fire extinguisher. Page 5 of http://www.azgfd.gov/pdfs/outdoor_recreation/boating_laws.pdf for best info.

Thank You

 

[Meaney77]

The difference with a boat is most people don't worry the officer is going to damage there car when pulled over but on a boat that is a huge FEAR and that causes tension right off the bat. If a boater feels thier property will be treated with respect the situation will be better for both side's. I have seen officers treat boats with disrespect either no knowing or not caring. I only been stopped twice on inland lake's and each time I walk permission to board there vessel and push my boat away. My wife then held up all safety requirements as they questioned me and looked at my paperwork.

Agreed... I was pulled over once when Pirates Cove 1st opened. I was the DD and pulled over for mufflers. I had my wife and a few friends on board that had all been drinking. I was pulled over idling through the gorge and as the officer pulled up next to me and rammed his boat into my boat and over into the reeds to ask questions and perform a field sobriety test on me. I hadn't been drinking but I guess because I had my wrist band on they assumed I was. The move was a bit aggressive and I was pretty pissed at how he pushed my boat into the reeds like I was trying to escape. I gave him an earful before he let us go.

 

[Andy01]

I'd volunteer for later ones this year, do you still want me to pm you?

 

[RiverDave]

I would do it but can't this weekend

 

[SRice]

Agreed... I was pulled over once when Pirates Cove 1st opened. I was the DD and pulled over for mufflers. I had my wife and a few friends on board that had all been drinking. I was pulled over idling through the gorge and as the officer pulled up next to me and rammed his boat into my boat and over into the reeds to ask questions and perform a field sobriety test on me. I hadn't been drinking but I guess because I had my wrist band on they assumed I was. The move was a bit aggressive and I was pretty pissed at how he pushed my boat into the reeds like I was trying to escape. I gave him an earful before he let us go.

I don't know if this was an FWS officer or some other agency, but I think most of the LE using this section of river make use of the reed-lined shore for our stops. We aren't trying to keep you from escaping but rather get out of the current and away from the wakes of passing boats. When we are floating in the middle of the river with you we have to worry about everything happening on your boat as well as whether our boats are drifting toward rocks, other boats or swimmers. We prefer to narrow our focus to just the law enforcement contact and not worry about boat handling at the same time. Second, although our boats have a built in rubber fender that runs ther perimeter of the boat, we do have metal railings and other hard points that can really mess up your boat if an inconsiderater boater throws even a small wake at us. In my experience, the tules have deep water under them and also really hold boats so they don't bang against each other. My boat is pretty indestructable- we really are trying to protect your boat by moving into the tules. One poster suggested hopping onto the officer's boat, pushing off and having somebody else demonstrate the safety equipment. I'm not sure every officer would go for this. Part of the sobriety check is to do divided attention tasking of the operator- meaning I ask you for a fire extinguisher and registration at the same time. As you the operator get those things, I'm watching for balance, memory problems, slurred speech and all the other stuff- but I need to give your those tasks and see how you perform on them and lose that opportunity if you are on my boat and your wife is showing me your equipment. Additionally, when you are on your own boat I have a little extra safety margin compared to when you are on my boat. Kinda like an officer's decision to either keep you in your car or perhaps bring you out during a traffic stop. Different folks like to do things different ways. But with that said, tell me if you have an idea for conducting these stops in another way that meets all of our needs and better safeguards your property. Always happy to try something better.

 

[LuauLounge]

Does a engine bay halon system count as a fire extinguisher?

In California if you are under 26' fixed engine compartment suppression is all that is required.
I still want a portable or two for the guy I'm tied up to.

 

[2FORCEFULL]

To my knowledge the details on upcoming events have not yet been released to the public, though I believe AZGFD does typically do a press release identifying the body of water and a range of dates when they will be out. Havasu News Herald did have an article like that in advance of the recent Site Six OUI checkpoint. In the meantime, it's a good opportunity to ensure you have your current paper vessel registration, a properly fitting PFD for everyone on board (kids not wearing a child PFD is an almost sure ticket), a Type IV throwable PFD, a functional and pressurized Fire extinguisher (or more than one depending on your size- check your safety pins too), and a sound producing device (per 33 CFR, your wives do not count). Also of course, we strongly promote Designated Drivers and appreciate it when a boater honestly informs us that he is acting as a DD. When there is no evidence of impairment the goal it to complete checks within about five minutes so the public is not too inconvenienced. Boaters not carrying all of the required equipment are likely to be cited and ordered back to the marina to get what they are lacking (and probably spend a lot more than they would have by stoping at Walmart on the way to the marina). Here's a link to AZGFDs page but I'll have to leave it to them to release more detailed info- if I see a press release I'll link it too.

http://azgfd.net/artman/publish/New...agency-OUI-checkpoint-on-Colorado-River.shtml

doesn't the throwable have to have 25' of rope tied to it to be legal?

 

[OldSchoolBoats]

doesn't the throwable have to have 25' of rope tied to it to be legal?

No. It just has to be within arms reach according to my "safety inspection" in Thompson Bay a few weeks ago.

Maybe different rules depending on size of boat??

 

[2FORCEFULL]

I don't know if this was an FWS officer or some other agency, but I think most of the LE using this section of river make use of the reed-lined shore for our stops. We aren't trying to keep you from escaping but rather get out of the current and away from the wakes of passing boats. When we are floating in the middle of the river with you we have to worry about everything happening on your boat as well as whether our boats are drifting toward rocks, other boats or swimmers. We prefer to narrow our focus to just the law enforcement contact and not worry about boat handling at the same time. Second, although our boats have a built in rubber fender that runs ther perimeter of the boat, we do have metal railings and other hard points that can really mess up your boat if an inconsiderater boater throws even a small wake at us. In my experience, the tules have deep water under them and also really hold boats so they don't bang against each other. My boat is pretty indestructable- we really are trying to protect your boat by moving into the tules. One poster suggested hopping onto the officer's boat, pushing off and having somebody else demonstrate the safety equipment. I'm not sure every officer would go for this. Part of the sobriety check is to do divided attention tasking of the operator- meaning I ask you for a fire extinguisher and registration at the same time. As you the operator get those things, I'm watching for balance, memory problems, slurred speech and all the other stuff- but I need to give your those tasks and see how you perform on them and lose that opportunity if you are on my boat and your wife is showing me your equipment. Additionally, when you are on your own boat I have a little extra safety margin compared to when you are on my boat. Kinda like an officer's decision to either keep you in your car or perhaps bring you out during a traffic stop. Different folks like to do things different ways. But with that said, tell me if you have an idea for conducting these stops in another way that meets all of our needs and better safeguards your property. Always happy to try something better.

another question...if you have not been drinking.. and leave your boat to board another vessel.... doesn't someone else become captian?

 

[2FORCEFULL]

No. It just has to be within arms reach according to my "safety inspection" in Thompson Bay a few weeks ago.

Maybe different rules depending on size of boat??

thanks officer...

 

[RogerThat99]

No. It just has to be within arms reach

That is what I was told also during a recent Coast Guard inspection.

 

[SRice]

another question...if you have not been drinking.. and leave your boat to board another vessel.... doesn't someone else become captian?

If they take they wheel, then yes. I've been on OUI checkpoints a couple times where an intoxicated operator tries to switch with a family member and then both end up being arrested for OUI.

No rope needed on a standard Type IV cushion like most folks carry. I'd need to look into ring buoys but haven't heard of any such requirement of them either.

 

[SRice]

In California if you are under 26' fixed engine compartment suppression is all that is required.
I still want a portable or two for the guy I'm tied up to.

Thank you! I did not realize AZ and CA differed on that, but looks like you're right. See p26 http://www.dbw.ca.gov/Pubs/Abc/Required_Equipment.pdf

 

[RiverDave]

thanks officer...

I'm not the law, but Joe's correct.. You don't need a rope.

RD

 

[BHC Vic]

I'm not the law, but Joe's correct.. You don't need a rope.

RD

I think if the boat is over 30' that's what I remember from the insurance test. Never heard about arms reach. I keep mine in the ski locker and that's where I get it out at the check points they've never had an issue.

 

[wallnutz]

I think in Nevada you need rope tied to the throw able, 30' if I remember correctly.

 

[Singleton]

doesn't the throwable have to have 25' of rope tied to it to be legal?

Nevada requires the 25' of rope attached.
AZ is within arms reach.

 

[Vegaskeith]

Nevada requires the 25' of rope attached.
AZ is within arms reach.

26' and over require rope attached to throwable in Nevada. Ask me how I know! 😁

 

[JD D05]

In California if you are under 26' fixed engine compartment suppression is all that is required.
I still want a portable or two for the guy I'm tied up to.

Thanks! I am 35 feet, I do have one on board plus the Halon. If I get hassled beyond that than so be it.