Some of the most dangerous vessels were self-propelled barges carrying sand. These were often not highly powered and sometimes struggled to manuver heavy loads in swift tidal currents. We were anchored near mid-river when this barge came downstream with a full load and a strong ebb tide. When it started to turn in front of us the driver realized he was in trouble and sounded his horn several times as a warning. We did not have time to do anything and were very glad when the barge (barely) missed us. We immediately raised anchor and moved near the bank to stay out of trouble.