Relaxing on a boat is a great way to spend the summer. Don’t let your time in the sun be ruined by a failure to follow basic safety procedures.
Here are seven tips to keep in mind every time you take your boat out.
1. Inspect your craft
Always inspect your boat before going anywhere, and never take it out if you notice even the slightest sign of trouble. A small problem can quickly turn into a big one miles from land. This handy pre-departure checklist from Discover Boating can help you prepare quickly and easily.
If you haven’t yet taken your boat out this season, use the U.S. Coast Guard’s virtual vessel safety check to do a complete inspection. Or, make an appointment to have a certified examiner check your boat for free.
2. Never go boating without safety essentials
You’re always safest on board a boat when wearing a life jacket. Children under 13 are legally required to wear one at all times in New Jersey and on all federal waterways.
And even if they’re not required for your boat, fire extinguishers, signals flares and other safety equipment can be critical in an emergency.
3. Don’t be caught unaware by bad weather
Anyone who’s spent time on a boat knows how quickly the weather can change at sea. Don’t go out if there’s bad weather in the forecast, even if it looks fine when you leave. Always have a portable radio on board to keep up with changes to the forecast.
4. Share your plan with someone on land
Always tell a friend or family member on land where you’re going and how long you’ll be gone. If something goes wrong, you want someone to know as soon as possible. In the worst-case scenario, their knowledge can guide search and rescue efforts.
5. Take extra care with kids…
Establish safety rules for kids so they know what risks to avoid taking on board, and make sure their life jacket has an attached whistle and they know how to use it. Watch out for signs of fatigue or getting too much sun, which can amplify the risk of an accident.
6. …and pets
Dog life jackets are specially designed to keep pups in a swimming position. Make sure yours fits your dog securely and comfortably. Also provide plenty of shade and drinking water and take care to protect your dog’s paws from absorbing too much heat from hot deck surfaces.
7. Be S.A.F.E.
S.A.F.E. is an acronym coined by Discover Boating and the National Marine Manufacturers Association. It stands for:
- Sober boating: Never operate a boat while under the influence.
- Alertness: Always be alert and aware of your surroundings.
- Fastened lifejackets: Always use lifejackets when required.
- Education: Invest time in a boater safety course and share key principles with everyone who comes on board.
In addition to practicing good safety practices your boat should also be adequately insured. If you’d like to make sure you have the best deal on boat insurance, speak to the team at John B Wright. We’ve been covering boaters for 50 years.
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