Practice Boat Safety Tips for Fun and Safe Boating Adventures
Boating is a fun recreational activity that allows you to enjoy good weather and good company. To ensure safe boating, abide by the following boat safety tips [http://www.nationwide.com/boating-safety-tips.jsp] to minimize or prevent emergencies; be prepared to react calmly if they occur.
1. Enroll in a boating safety course.
A boating safety course is a great option for beginners, as well as veteran boaters who desire a refresher course. There are a number of boat safety courses available online and in the classroom.
Safety courses teach you the names and functions of all boat parts, how to use the safety equipment and how to operate the boat. You also learn driving rules specific to your state.
2. Wear your life jacket.
Even if you are a strong swimmer, you can never be too careful in and around water. A life jacket is a necessity. Every state has its own laws about life jackets for different age groups, but all passengers should wear life jackets in rough waters.
It is required that every passenger have a life jacket before leaving the dock, even on calm-weather days.
3. Know the water and your surroundings.
Whether you are in familiar territory or unknown waters, make sure you are aware of your surroundings at all times. Before you head out, plan your route and know the location of the nearest marina, in case you need to dock.
While heading to your destination, keep your distance from other boats and the shore; the waters close to shore can be deceiving and appear deeper than they really are. If you drop anchor to enjoy the sun and take a swim, keep an eye on a landmark on shore so you can stay oriented to your location.
4. Be a smart, safe driver.
As boat driver, it is your primary responsibility to transport your passengers safely. Make sure all passengers are seated and items like beach towels and coolers are properly stowed before shoving off.
Avoid sudden movements that could jostle unsuspecting passengers. If people are enjoying a swim, don't start the motor until everyone is back on board.
5. Avoid capsizing.
Decrease your risk of capsizing. First, know your boat's weight limit. Second, always anchor off the bow (front) of your boat. If the anchor is set off the stern (back), the boat can be pulled under waves and sink.
6. Stock emergency boat safety items.
Always keep boat safety items fully stocked in case of emergencies, such as becoming injured or stranded. Carry a basic first aid kit, including motion sickness medicine.
Keep flares and a horn on hand so you can alert other boaters or the U.S. Coast Guard if your boat ever stops working or you run out of gas and can't make it back to shore. A good way to avoid running out of gas is to always fill your tank before pushing off from the dock.
7. Carry a marine radio.
A marine radio is useful to contact other boaters or the U.S. Coast Guard during an emergency. Many boats come equipped with marine radios; if yours doesn't, inexpensive handhelds are readily available at sporting goods stores, electronics stores or online.
8. Check the weather.
Check the weather report before you leave. If the weather is less than desirable, delay your trip and stretch your sea legs on dry land.
Practicing boat safety helps make your boating experience more enjoyable. To learn how to protect your boat and passengers from harm, contact a reputable company like Nationwide Insurance for a boat insurance quote. Learn how boat insurance coverage can help put your mind at ease so you can enjoy the open waters.
1. Enroll in a boating safety course.
A boating safety course is a great option for beginners, as well as veteran boaters who desire a refresher course. There are a number of boat safety courses available online and in the classroom.
Safety courses teach you the names and functions of all boat parts, how to use the safety equipment and how to operate the boat. You also learn driving rules specific to your state.
2. Wear your life jacket.
Even if you are a strong swimmer, you can never be too careful in and around water. A life jacket is a necessity. Every state has its own laws about life jackets for different age groups, but all passengers should wear life jackets in rough waters.
It is required that every passenger have a life jacket before leaving the dock, even on calm-weather days.
3. Know the water and your surroundings.
Whether you are in familiar territory or unknown waters, make sure you are aware of your surroundings at all times. Before you head out, plan your route and know the location of the nearest marina, in case you need to dock.
While heading to your destination, keep your distance from other boats and the shore; the waters close to shore can be deceiving and appear deeper than they really are. If you drop anchor to enjoy the sun and take a swim, keep an eye on a landmark on shore so you can stay oriented to your location.
4. Be a smart, safe driver.
As boat driver, it is your primary responsibility to transport your passengers safely. Make sure all passengers are seated and items like beach towels and coolers are properly stowed before shoving off.
Avoid sudden movements that could jostle unsuspecting passengers. If people are enjoying a swim, don't start the motor until everyone is back on board.
5. Avoid capsizing.
Decrease your risk of capsizing. First, know your boat's weight limit. Second, always anchor off the bow (front) of your boat. If the anchor is set off the stern (back), the boat can be pulled under waves and sink.
6. Stock emergency boat safety items.
Always keep boat safety items fully stocked in case of emergencies, such as becoming injured or stranded. Carry a basic first aid kit, including motion sickness medicine.
Keep flares and a horn on hand so you can alert other boaters or the U.S. Coast Guard if your boat ever stops working or you run out of gas and can't make it back to shore. A good way to avoid running out of gas is to always fill your tank before pushing off from the dock.
7. Carry a marine radio.
A marine radio is useful to contact other boaters or the U.S. Coast Guard during an emergency. Many boats come equipped with marine radios; if yours doesn't, inexpensive handhelds are readily available at sporting goods stores, electronics stores or online.
8. Check the weather.
Check the weather report before you leave. If the weather is less than desirable, delay your trip and stretch your sea legs on dry land.
Practicing boat safety helps make your boating experience more enjoyable. To learn how to protect your boat and passengers from harm, contact a reputable company like Nationwide Insurance for a boat insurance quote. Learn how boat insurance coverage can help put your mind at ease so you can enjoy the open waters.
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