Summer is coming, and the water is looking blue and tempting. You’re ready to get a boat and head out into the deep blue sea (or lake).
If you’re a new boater, don’t get too excited just yet. Boating can be dangerous if you aren’t up-to-date with basic boating safety.
We’re here with a few boating safety tips that can help you keep yourself and your passengers safe on the water. Read on to learn more.
1. Keep Up With Boating Maintenance
When you first get your boat, it’s a good idea to get a professional safety check. These are often available for free; just look for resources in your local area.
Once you know that your boat is safe, it’s still a good idea to get regular boat maintenance. Professionals can ensure that your boat isn’t leaking any dangerous fumes, that everything is functioning well, and that you’re not at risk of leaks. They may also offer DIY maintenance tips.
If you’re struggling to keep up with maintenance, it might be a better idea to use a business such as Freedom Boat Club to rent boats instead of buying them. They’ll take care of maintenance for you.
2. Have a Boat Safety Kit
You should always have a safety kit when you’re out on the water, especially if you plan to be miles away from shore. Even if you know that you’re a safe driver, you need to expect the unexpected. Emergencies can happen wherever you are.
So what should go into your kit?
First, floatation gear. It’s a good idea to have basic floatation devices and well-fitting life jackets. Make sure that you have jackets that are sized correctly for anyone who might be on your boat (even pets and children).
Have a first aid kit available. You can use a pre-made one from the store.
Keep duct tape, a flashlight, and a fire extinguisher onboard at all times, as well as plenty of rope. It’s also a good idea to have a mirror with which you can reflect light to get attention in the event of an emergency.
3. Always Check the Weather
So it’s a bright and sunny day, and you’re ready to get out onto the water. It must be safe, right?
Anyone who’s ever lived in a storm-prone area knows that a hot and sunny day will turn into a thunderstorm over a matter of minutes. While boats can endure storms, it’s best to avoid them if you’re not a savvy sailor.
Turn on the weather channel before you leave the dock.
4. Learn the Rules of the Water
New boaters don’t always remember that, just like roads, the water has driving rules.
When you’re out in the deep blue sea, the rules aren’t as important. As long as there’s no one around you, you’re typically safe. When you’re near land or other boats, however, you have to abide by speed limits to prevent wake.
Take a boating safety course near you so you can learn about all local boating laws.
Boating Safety Is a Priority
When you’re driving a boat, you have to prioritize boating safety, especially if you have passengers. Use these tips to help you stay safe on the water this summer.
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