As the weather warms up, more and more people find themselves drawn to the water, whether a lake, river, or ocean. Warmer weather also means the beginning of boating season, with nearly 11 million registered recreational water vessels in the U.S. ready to enjoy the sunshine.
National Safe Boating Week is May 18-24, and in its honor, it’s time to explore boating safety tips. In 2017 alone, the U.S. Coast Guard reported 4,291 boating accidents that led to 658 deaths, 2,629 injuries, and about $46 million in property damage.
This summer, you can take charge and prevent boating accidents before they happen. Embrace these eleven tips to keep yourself and your loved ones safe on whichever water vessel you choose!
1. Check the Weather
Always check the weather prior to departure. Weather can change in an instant, so staying as prepared and vigilant as possible can make a difference. If you notice any dark clouds, rough winds, or sudden drops in temperature, it’s best to get off the water as soon as safely possible.
2. Know the Local Laws and Follow Them
Boating laws can differ from state to state. Before embarking on your lake or ocean voyage, be familiar with all local laws. Use your common sense to operate your water vessel at a safe speed, obey navigational aids and signage, and respect buoys.
If you need a refresher of navigation rules and general boating safety, the National Safe Boating Council provides a free online boating course.
3. Make Sure Your Boat is Up to Regulation Safety Standards
Ensure your boat, or the one you are renting, is compliant with required regulations. Both the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the United States Power Squadrons have certified vessel examiners who will perform a free Vessel Safety Check at your boat, if requested!
4. Read the Owner’s Manual
Boat manuals are created to help maximize a driver’s boating experience. It will contain details of the water vessel, the equipment supplied, and information on how to operate and maintain the craft.
Reading the manual will only enhance safety and pleasure for you and all your boating passengers, so prioritize reading it before you board!
5. Create a Float Plan
A Float Plan is a lifesaving device that search and rescue personnel will use to assist in their efforts to locate you, should anything go wrong while on the water.
Take the time to create a Float Plan that works for you and your group. Keep a copy and give a copy to a responsible person on land who can be trusted to contact authorities should it be necessary.
6. Wear Your Life Jacket
You may not be required by law to wear a life jacket, but wearing a life jacket could mean the difference between life and death. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, 76% of boating deaths were due to drowning, and 84.5% of victims were not wearing a life jacket.
Regardless of your experience in the water, a boating accident or unintentional slip and fall could mean injuring yourself while falling into the water, meaning your swimming skills are compromised. A life jacket keeps a victim’s head above water to ensure he or she can breathe and are bright to help rescuers identify victims; so don’t just have one, be sure to wear it at all times.
If you are curious on how to find the right life jackets for you and your family, the U.S. Coast Guard provides an easy guide to find the right fit.
7. Don’t Drink and Boat
Alcohol use is the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. According to boating lawyers in Kansas City, “While some boat accidents stem from acts of God or poor weather conditions, most result from human error.”
Alcohol affects judgement, vision, and coordination, all important things to navigate a water vessel safely. The probability of being involved in a boating accident doubles when alcohol is involved.
8. Shut Off the Engine When Passengers are Loading
When passengers are loading on or off the boat to swim or engage in water activities, shut off the engine. It may take a few minutes for passengers to get situated properly, so save gas, and prevent a propeller accident by choosing to shut off your engine.
9. Monitor Gauges
Monitor gauges at the helm to help ensure your boat is operating efficiently; this includes gauges for voltage, temperature, and fuel. Identify any issues as soon as possible and respond with appropriate action.
10. Exercise Sun Safety
Being on the water can mean long hours in the sun. Bring plenty of bottled water, sunscreen, and protective clothing to prevent against adverse effects of sun exposure. Know the signs of heat illnesses, such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion, and when to request medical assistance.
11. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Whether or not this is your first or fiftieth time boating, stay vigilant of your surroundings. Steer clear of tugs, towboats, and large ships, and always keep an eye out for people in the water.
Defensive driving isn’t just on land, it applies to the water, too!
11 Tips for Boating Safety for Summer and Beyond
National Boating Safety Week is a time to review safety regulations, recommendations, and tips to ensure you, your friends, and family are as prepared as can be when it comes time to hit the water. Regardless of the time of year, practicing safe boating tactics is always in season. Take charge of your safety by reviewing these eleven tips and putting them into action!