Don’t compromise anyone’s safety while on the water. Whether you’ve just purchased your first boat or have been sailing since you were little, there are boating rules you must abide by for the safety of all involved. Check out these six boating safety tips to keep everyone on the boat (yourself included) safe.
1. Invest in Emergency Location Devices
Cell phone signals can’t always be relied on while on the water. In the case of an emergency, you’ll need a way to call for assistance. A VHF Moonraker radio will help you send an emergency call to anyone within range. Some even have a built-in GPS to pinpoint the location of your boat.
A quality radio will also keep you updated on any rapid weather changes. If you notice any sudden wind shifts or unexpected choppy water, head to safety as soon as possible.
2. Always Have a First-Aid Kit on Board
You likely already have a first-aid kit on board to help in the case of any scrapes or bruises. Check your first-aid kit every year for the following items:
- Antiseptic wipes
- Adhesive bandages
- First aid cream
- Gauze pads
- Cold packs
- Scissors
- Aspirin
Additional items to include would be sunscreen, larger bandages, eye wash treatments, and tweezers.
3. Ensure Everyone’s Wearing a Life Jacket
Everyone on the boat needs to wear a life jacket, even if they know how to swim. Wearing one will make it easier to get to safety in the case of a boating accident.
Even the best swimmers will have trouble staying afloat due to injury, fatigue, or being cold. Life jackets provide buoyancy so that even a person who can’t swim won’t drown. They are a must-have while boating.
Along with life jackets, you must have one form of throwable personal flotation device on the boat.
4. Know What To Do If Someone Goes Overboard
If someone falls overboard, you need to act quickly.
Begin by turning off the motor and propellers. A boat’s propellers can cause significant injury to anyone in the water. If there is no one in the boat to turn off the propellers, get everyone away from the boat. Then, make sure everyone is safe and wearing a life jacket. If someone isn’t wearing one, look for a floating safety device.
If everyone is wearing a life jacket, have them float on their backs and slowly paddle to safety.
5. Watch Children Carefully
You never know what to expect from small children. Ensure they know how to get on and off the boat safely, and go over safety rules about what they can and can’t do while aboard. Also, designate a particular sitting spot for them. Don’t let them sit in an area where they could easily fall into the water.
6. Be Mindful of Others on the Water
You’re not going to be the only person on the water, so be courteous to those around you. Maintain a safe distance and always abide by the boating rules.
Safety Always Comes First
Keeping these six tips in mind will let you enjoy your time on the water without compromising anyone’s safety. Happy sailing!
