A few tips for beginners when taking the boat to the pond.
- So you purchased a couple of boats for the kids to take to the pond on Sunday. and you’re wondering why 1 transmitter has control of all the boats. Nothing makes R/C boating boring when you have to wait for your brother or sister to finish running their boat before you can play with yours. Usually you will find the frequency number on the front or the end of the box. It will look something like 44 MHz or 27 MHz if both boats have the same frequency then 1 controller will control both boats and that’s not fun. (They will remember that day when they are picking out your nursing home).
- Make sure there are no swimmers in the area. Even the electric boats can cause injury.
- Call me a worry wart but always scan the water’s edge for snakes. I have had a couple of run in’s with water moccasins in the past. Especially when there is tall grass at the water’s edge. (They have no sense of humor).
- When you’re choosing a boat make sure you get a boat that is in the age range of the child. Some water craft can cause significant harm. (Try explaining those injuries to your wife). Most electric boats are ok but double check the manufactures suggested age range.
- Believe it or not you might want to avoid a really windy day. The wind can have a big effect on the boat in the water. If you boats runs really fast then it can be flipped. For the electric boats the batteries will drain that much quicker if you’re pushing into the wind and it will eventually be blown to where you can’t get it.
- Make sure you radio check your boat before you put it into the water. Have a second person walk a good distance with the boat while you move the controls. If the boat does not respond properly then don’t put it in the water. It could be weak batteries or you may be getting radio interference from an outside source. (Avoid the Aw Damn moments). Make sure that the antenna on the boat is extended.
- If you plan on using the water craft more than 1 Sunday then I would suggest that you invest in extra batteries. This will extend you fun time, and while we are on the subject of batteries make sure you brush up on battery safety. Read the manufactures specification that comes with the battery and never use a damaged battery.
- Always position yourself downwind from where you will be running your boat. If it stalls or the batteries run down, then the wind should blow the boat back to your side of the pond.
- always keep parts of you body away from the prop ( stitches are not fun ).
If you really want to get into the Hobby then you should seek out a local club. You will always find someone there willing to help you along.
Safe boating……..