Emergency procedures for Lake Powell boaters

Who do you call in a Lake Powell emergency?

Program these numbers into every phone aboard before you leave the dock, and write them somewhere waterproof. On the water, VHF channel 16 reaches the Park Service faster than any phone.

How do you make a mayday call on VHF channel 16?

Channel 16 is the international hailing and distress frequency, monitored around the clock by the National Park Service on Lake Powell. Keep the call short and clear:

1. On VHF channel 16, say “MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY” for a life-threatening emergency, or “PAN-PAN” three times for an urgent situation that isn’t immediately life-threatening.
2. State your boat’s name and how many people are aboard.
3. Give your exact position — GPS coordinates are best; otherwise the nearest buoy number, canyon name or a named landmark.
4. Describe the emergency and the help you need.
5. Release the transmit button and listen for a reply; repeat the call if no one answers.
6. With no radio or phone signal, signal distress with flares, a horn or a signal mirror.

What do you do in a medical emergency?

1. Assess the situation and make sure the scene is safe.
2. Call for help right away on VHF channel 16 or an emergency number.
3. Give your exact GPS coordinates or a clear landmark.
4. Give first aid within your training level.
5. Clear deck space for a helicopter if an evacuation may be needed.
6. Monitor vital signs and write everything down.
7. Have someone ready to guide rescue personnel in.

What do you do if the engine fails?

Mechanical failure is the most common emergency on Lake Powell — engine, steering and electrical problems far from help. Stay with the boat and work the problem:

1. Have everyone put on a life jacket.
2. Drop anchor in safe water so you don’t drift into hazards.
3. Try basic troubleshooting if it’s safe to do so.
4. Call for assistance on VHF 16 if you can’t resolve it.
5. Show distress signals if you’re in danger.
6. Ready your lines for a tow.
7. Stay with your boat unless it’s sinking.

Man overboard: what to do

1. Shout “MAN OVERBOARD” and point continuously at the person.
2. Throw flotation immediately — a life ring, cushion, anything that floats.
3. Assign one person to keep eyes on the swimmer at all times.
4. Circle back carefully and approach from downwind.
5. Stop the engine when you’re close to avoid injury.
6. Bring the person aboard at the lowest point of the boat.
7. Treat for hypothermia even in summer.

Fire on board: what to do

1. Sound the alarm and alert everyone aboard.
2. Stop the boat if it’s safe to do so.
3. Turn the boat so the fire is downwind.
4. Aim the fire extinguisher at the base of the flames.
5. If the fire is out of control, get everyone into the water in life jackets.
6. Call MAYDAY on VHF 16.

How do you prevent carbon monoxide poisoning?

Carbon monoxide is a silent killer on boats — it collects around exhaust and in enclosed cabins, and the early symptoms mimic seasickness. Protect everyone aboard:

• Never swim near the boat’s exhaust.
• Don’t allow “teak surfing” or dragging behind the boat.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors in enclosed spaces.
• Ventilate whenever a generator or engine is running.
• Watch for the “station wagon effect” that can trap exhaust behind a moving boat.
• Know the symptoms: headache, dizziness and nausea.

How do you prepare for a helicopter evacuation?

• Clear the largest flat area you can on the boat.
• Secure loose items that could blow away.
• Mark your position with bright colors or a signal mirror.
• Have someone ready to guide the helicopter with arm signals.
• Keep everyone low and clear of the landing or hovering area.

The Park Service posts current Glen Canyon emergency and safety information at nps.gov/glca. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary also offers free vessel safety checks before you launch.