Diary of a PMI/Workboat Academy Cadet

[trekleader]

...Anyway- enough talking trash!...

Nice, Anthony...

[Capt. Fran]

(No mention was made of AB sail/fishing/MODU- I will recommend this tomorrow)

Hey Anthony, your instructor probably filled you in, but AB sail/fishing/MODU no longer exist. As per 46 CFR 12.05.

[Ordinaryseaman]

Thanks Captain Fran-

I was wondering if that was being changed. Our instructor didn't mention it- I suppose because it's no longer relevant.

I need to look over the changes more than i have- maybe this weekend...

[trekleader]

...I need to look over the changes more than i have...

Day 2 of AB and you haven't memorized the CFR's in their entirety? Slacker

[Azimuth]

Hey Anthony, your instructor probably filled you in, but AB sail/fishing/MODU no longer exist. As per 46 CFR 12.05.

I just renewed and my MMC still has my AB Sail listed on it. If you have it I guess you get to keep it.

[Shellback]

I just renewed and my MMC still has my AB Sail listed on it. If you have it I guess you get to keep it.

Ya, I have mine on my MMC too...When did this change? I worked my ass off to get that one too..

[Ordinaryseaman]

Capt Fran- I read the page at the link to the CFR's. Looking at the last paragraph- it sounds like there may be new types of AB? AB Great Lake/Towing, Cargo-etc?

Or am I misreading (I'm tired!)

Thanks-Anthony

[Ordinaryseaman]

Whoops! I reread the CFR's today in class. Much more clear when you're wide awake

[danzante]

A fellow PMI student- in a another class (not a cadet) had a heart attack in the bathroom. All the cadets are hoping for a full recovery- and thinking of our fellow mariner.

I'm happy to say that the student was taken off the ventilator today and was conscious and in great spirits. The doctors are expecting him to make a full recovery and cite the early defibrillation (he received a shock from the PMI AED before the EMTs arrived) as the reason he is alive today.

AED on your boat? Know where it is and make sure the battery is charged. And do me another favor: pull it out occasionally during a drill and tell the rest of your crew about it.

[Ordinaryseaman]

That's- AWESOME! Glad he's okay. Hopefully he'll be back in GMDSS class soon

Definitely reinforces the importance of regular/realistic training. The more realistic-the better. As the saying goes "cry in training- laugh in battle"

Glad you were there Jill

[Ordinaryseaman]

Fellow sailors- I have a confession. I was a little... WORRIED today. Had two tests- knot tying for AB and a math proficiency exam for PMI.

I got 100% on the knots and splicing- though I'll confess there were a couple of knots I could have done better...

The math test.. well.. I didn't do THAT bad- but need to study my trigonometry. Today was the first time I've used a scientific calculator. Also first time doing trig calculations sine, cosine, tangent-etc. It's like anything else- proficiency comes from (proper) practice- and I need to do a little more.

If you're considering a career as a mate or engineer- study up on math before you get into school- it will help.

So... AB class- day 3!

As usual- lots info was presented. PMI does a good job of mixing new info with stuff you've already gone over. This keeps everything fresh in your mind.

They also do a lot exams- which aren't graded. Knowing you'll have to answer your questions in front of the class is a good motivator though- so we all study for them I've done pretty well on these- except when I fail to fully read the questions. USCG likes to ask tricky questions- so read the whole question- and your answer. If you have time- double check.

Today we had a deck general exam- questions included-

*Labeling a diagram of mooring lines..

*The different types of block and tackle- their names, mechanical advantage, etc...

*Vessel construction terms..

And more.

Then we studied a number of things-

*Ground tackle- anchors, chain, etc. Learned the proper names for anchor components, the colors for different shots of chain, using "scope" to determine the correct amount of chain to pay out... Also info on mooring the windlass/capstan/winch components, the chain locker... which reminds me-

Our instructor told us a story about how danzante made her fake out anchor chain coming into the chain locker. I haven't yet had the "opportunity" to do this-yet.

Also discussed-

Vessel handling characteristics for single and twin screw vessels, the effects of squat, cushion and suction... We got a mini lecture on the "Houston Chicken" which demonstrates these- and was universally enjoyed Gotta look up the video.. Then we were on to search and rescue maneuvering-Williamson Turn, Anderson Turn, plus several others- and their advantages/disadvantages.

Also went over OS and AB duties- both in general- and especially on the bridge. We had done some of this before- but a good refresher. We went over helm commands again- and I made a few distinctions/learned a few new things.

Next up- compass problems- determining and correcting compass error- deviation/variation- and had a practical exam on this. Who would have guessed that discussing dead men, virgins, elections, and whiskey could help you become an officer?

That was the end of the day for most. If you haven't taken these courses- it seems like a LOT of info for one day- and it is. The amazing thing is- I never post ALL of that we go over. There are always side discussions, people popping in to say hi, sea stories and what not.. If you focus, take good notes, and do your studying- it's not that bad. Then again- I'm not in celestial yet.

I've had several people ask me about the knots part. Our instructor gave us a Coast Guard handout explaining what you have to know.

There are 15 or 16 knots- of which the instructor picks 10- and you must get 7. The knots are below (I put a "*" next to the ones I got)

Clove hitch
Rolling hitch
Bowline*
Bowline on a bight*
French Bowline*
Figure 8 Knot*
Sheet Bend/Becket Bend*
Barrel Hitch
Stopper Hitch
Cat's Paw*
Round Turn and 2 Half Hitches*
Carrick Bend*
Timber Hitch
Square Knot*
Fisherman's Bend*

* I might be for getting one..

Note- the line used was short- made tying "different" You might want to practice..

Also- you have to do a splice in 3 strand line- either an eye splice- or short splice- within 15 minutes. I did an eye splice..

Then- after sweating through the math test- I was free to enjoy a warm Spring day in Seattle. It's a beautiful city- come visit us if you have the chance. Anthony

[RkyMtn Paul]

Anthony, What you are doing is awesome. Exposing a lot of newbies/lurkers on what is involved. Cheers. On my first merchant ship, the bowline was ingrained in me. Frontward, backward, upside down, under something that I couldn't even see it. Used that knot more than any other by far. And still use today, after 13 years on the beach. 'Texas Chicken' is a trip the first time you do it, especially when no one tells you about it. Flaking the chain on a small boat is a lot better and easier than slushing lines. Keep it up, and thank you.

[Ordinaryseaman]

Thanks Paul- that's my hope. When I was new- I knew zip- and probably annoyed the heck out of the Bosun, AB's and Mate- but I had no idea where to find info- until I discovered gcaptain- and a few books

So- it's day 4 of AB class. Pretty much the last day- we will do a little more tomorrow- but a lot of it will be the two 50 question tests- so I'll be up studying late.. I also have a meeting with Marjah tomorrow. All of the cadets are getting ready to ship out for their first sea phase- and we rach meet with Marjah to go over our training books one more time- plus make sure we don't have any un-answered questions. Speaking of Maryah- she pulled me aside today- and let me know I can wait on my BST (since mine is still valid)- and ship out soon! I still don't know exactly when- waiting on some paperwork.

We started out today with a non-graded navigation exam- to see where we are at. I did pretty well- though I sometimes have problems as the questions are presented in a different context than what we've done in class. You have to pay attention and think about some of them a bit...

Next up was emergency procedures. What to do in situations like-
*Collision
*Fire
Shifting of Cargo
*other emergency situations

We went over what a station bill and billet duties are, the alarm signals for the different emergencies, how to muster- and so forth. I mentioned that the general alarm and abandon ship signals are the reverse of what they are at NCL. Our instructor explained that she had been on a ship with non traditional signals as well- which was given an exemption due to their use of the PA system/intercom. I'm guessing it was the same deal for NCL.

We went over procedures for man overboard, fire, and helicopter rescue- as well as use of the breeches buoy- which I've yet to see in real life... One quick note- if evacuating a casualty from a ship to a helicopter- don't touch the winch wire from the helicoper- or.. you're in for a shock- lots of static!

Next up- info on certificate of inspection (COI). then- we discussedlifesaving equipment- PFD's, lifeboats/liferafts, Immersion (Gumby) suits- their care and proper usage, how to right a capsized liferaft (if you've never done this- it's one of the best parts of BST class!) and a bunch more- such as davits..

Did you know- the record for lifeboat survival? It's..... 133 days! Alone! At sea! A chinese sailor named Poon Lin had his ship torpedoed by a german U-Boat in world war 2. He survived by using the raft supplies- and fishing. After a storm caused him to lose his provisions- he survived by DRINKING FISH BLOOD! That's pretty impressive. Lin move to New York- where he lived until he passed away

Sarts (search and rescue transponders) Epirbs (Electronic Position Indicating radio Beacons) Racon beaconsand liferaft radios were next. We learned how to use them- their limitations, checking batteries, and where they are stored. We also went over emergency signals again. Our instructor prefers shooting a gun and flames on the ship- though I'm guessing she just finds them more fun

Firefighting! I've had to respond to a few small fires- and have narrowly missed several more on ships-so this was a welcome refresher. Did you knw- oxidation (which causes rust) is also the reaction behind fire? Same thing- just a faster/more violent reaction.

We went over-

*The 4 elements of a fire- take out one and the fire is done.. hey- that rhymes!We discussed-

*Tpes of fire- A, B, C, D, and..K (which is a B) and how to fight/not fight them.

*The "Fire" system- find, inform, restrict, and extinguish

* Different types of extinguishers/fixed suppression systems, using scba gear, and lastly- using oxygen and gas meters to test spaces.


CPR and 1st aid were next-

*CPR

*Differentt types of bleeding- and responses.

*Recognizing and treating shock

*Treating heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and hypothermia- learned some new stuff here!

We next went into treating burns and setting splints.

The hardest thing today- and my favorite- was a case study on an engine room fire aboard a French polar vessel.

We split up into 2 teams- my team read the report and opined on what we felt the crew did well. The other team focused on what they did wrong- then we made recommendations for how it could have been prevented

Tomorrow we have the two tests plus some stuff on safe behaviour on a ship- good seamanship, preventing injuries, PPE-and.. not sure what else yet.


In this case- the crew responded well-- in general. But- the situation likely could have been prevented.. we learned a lot

Gotta run- studying to do.

Until next time-Anthony

[Ordinaryseaman]

Good morning everyone Had planned on posting last night- but wasn't able to. I share computers with my fellow guests here at the hostel- and wasn't able to find an open computer for hours

Anyhoo-

Passed my AB class!

The test was MUCH easier than the class-PMI over prepares you- and that's a good thing.

Advice as far as the test-

* Find and study the USCG test illustration guides- as some of them can be hard to decipher.

* Learn your different names of block and tackle- their mechanical advantage, how to compensate for friction...

* Study the questions online- as questions can be asked several ways- sometime you know the answer- but the WAY they ask throws you off..

*Read the whole question- sometimes it sounds like they are asking you one thing- but are in fact asking another

*If you know you have a weakness- say buoys- study that extra until you get it..

All in all- it was a good class- good instructor, pretty good study materials, practical exams to check progress.

If you take the class- and study at night- you'll pass.

Some recommendations- get a book that shows buoys in color. The study book shows them in black and white- and it helps many (including me) to see them in color. Barnes and Noble has a book on sailing with color illustrations- or you can get a copy of "Chart 1" or a light list.

Same thing for Rules of the Road. PMI will lend you a book for this though.

There's a good store here called Captain's Nautical Supply which has more good nautical books than I've seen- anywhere.

(PM me if you're taking the AB class/test and need help)

I got some good news- that I can wait on taking my BST (mine is still valid) and ship out soon. I'm meeting with my port captain Monday- for orientation, drug test, etc. If all goes well I'll be flying to San Francisco on Tuesday

It's sunny here- so I'm going to go explore the city. I haven't had much free time for several weeks so it's a welcome change!

Hope everyone has great weekend-Anthony

[Capt. Fran]

[QUOTE=Ordinaryseaman;29419] Some recommendations- get a book that shows buoys in color. The study book shows them in black and white- and it helps many (including me) to see them in color. Barnes and Noble has a book on sailing with color illustrations- or you can get a copy of "Chart 1" or a light list.

Same thing for Rules of the Road. PMI will lend you a book for this though.

*The 4 elements of a fire- take out one and the fire is done.. hey- that rhymes!We discussed-

*Tpes of fire- A, B, C, D, and..K (which is a B) and how to fight/not fight them.

Hey Anthony, big kudos on passing!

I wanted to comment on a few things, though. With regards to the black and white buoys and rules, I actually prefer that, because then I take colored pencils and fill in the colors myself. Helps me learn a little better than just looking at the colors. So if you are studying for an exam, purchase a pack of colored pencils.

Secondly, because I am total firefighting geek, I need to comment on Class K fires in case folks here haven't heard of it before.

Class K is called such because it is on land a special class for Kitchen grease fires. The reason it was separated out (although the USCG doesn't recognize it yet) is because you fight a grease fire completely different than you would a Class B fire. You can put diesel out with water and foam, but you better not run into your galley with a fire hose unless you have some serious, serious advanced training. Imagine a deep fat fryer fire, you add water and now what? You've overfilled the fryer and you are now spreading the burning grease all over the place. Fun.
Therefore, Class K's are primarily extinguished with Wet Chemicals, which many of you may have installed in your galley in a fixed system, such a Range Guard, etc. Very similar in make-up to dry chems that are in your portable fire extinguishers, but stored in a liquid form. They extinguish fires by interrupting the chain reaction and through a process called soponification, in which the grease solidifies and turns to fat. (Think Fight Club)
Well, that was probably more than you wanted to know, but I have firefighting OCD. Must. Talk. About. Fire.

[seadawg]

hey anthony,

just a thought..if you haven't already..you might want to start a digital marine library??

Bowditch 9 http://www.nga.mil/MSISiteContent/St...S/APN/pub9.zip

Coast Pilot 7 http://www.nauticalcharts.noaa.gov/n...ed-reduced.pdf

Light List 6 http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/pubs/Ligh...0List%20V6.pdf

Buoy Pages http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/pubs/Ligh...N%20Plates.pdf

Rules http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/mwv/mwv_f...s/navrules.pdf

Chart #1 http://www.nga.mil/MSISiteContent/St...rt1/chart1.zip

much much more at these links:

NOAA http://www.nauticalcharts.noaa.gov/s...hartspubs.html

NGA http://www.nga.mil/portal/site/marit...ront_door=true

USCG http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/mwv/navrules/navrules.htm

**meant to add this as well..good array of calculators**

http://www.nga.mil/portal/site/marit...c24fd73927a759



BTW..BEST LUCK..doubt you will need it though!!

[Ordinaryseaman]

[QUOTE=Capt. Fran;29435]

Some recommendations- get a book that shows buoys in color. The study book shows them in black and white- and it helps many (including me) to see them in color. Barnes and Noble has a book on sailing with color illustrations- or you can get a copy of "Chart 1" or a light list.

Same thing for Rules of the Road. PMI will lend you a book for this though.




Hey Anthony, big kudos on passing!

I wanted to comment on a few things, though. With regards to the black and white buoys and rules, I actually prefer that, because then I take colored pencils and fill in the colors myself. Helps me learn a little better than just looking at the colors. So if you are studying for an exam, purchase a pack of colored pencils.

Secondly, because I am total firefighting geek, I need to comment on Class K fires in case folks here haven't heard of it before.

Class K is called such because it is on land a special class for Kitchen grease fires. The reason it was separated out (although the USCG doesn't recognize it yet) is because you fight a grease fire completely different than you would a Class B fire. You can put diesel out with water and foam, but you better not run into your galley with a fire hose unless you have some serious, serious advanced training. Imagine a deep fat fryer fire, you add water and now what? You've overfilled the fryer and you are now spreading the burning grease all over the place. Fun.
Therefore, Class K's are primarily extinguished with Wet Chemicals, which many of you may have installed in your galley in a fixed system, such a Range Guard, etc. Very similar in make-up to dry chems that are in your portable fire extinguishers, but stored in a liquid form. They extinguish fires by interrupting the chain reaction and through a process called soponification, in which the grease solidifies and turns to fat. (Think Fight Club)
Well, that was probably more than you wanted to know, but I have firefighting OCD. Must. Talk. About. Fire.

Thanks Captain Fran :-)

I think you brought up some good points-

the colored pencil thing is smart- especially since the tests don't show colors.

Also- thanks for for the info on class k fires. I try to summarize to keep my posts short(er) and forgot that many haven't heard of NFPA class K. Glad you distinguished and and suggested means of fighting. I've worked in several galleys aboard ships- we usually just put a lid over small grease fires- but also had fire blankets and fixed wet chem systems.

Which leads to a story.. someone accidentally activated a wet chem system in the galley of one of our cruise ships! Right before meal service too!

Luckily- I wasn't aboard that cruise- I hear they were cleaning up for a LONG time!

[Ordinaryseaman]

Seadawg- thanks for the well wishes- and the links

I had a few of those- but not most- and they are much appreciated. I will email them to the other cadets as well

[Shellback]

Whoops! I reread the CFR's today in class. Much more clear when you're wide awake

From now on when I have a discussion with an evaluator, I will be sure to ask if they got a good nights sleep first before I try to argue my point, thanks Anthony!

[rjbpilot]

Holy Crap, Anthony-----how do you find time to type all this stuff every night. Aren't you getting carpal tunnel syndrome yet!?