Advice On Boating Safety
posted on 06/08/2009
This is the time of the year when many families take to the water in a sailboat, rowboat, powerboat or even something larger, like a cabin cruiser. It's usually a great day on the water, with good food and friends, a little fishing, a little swimming and fun in the sun. It's really important, however, to make sure that everyone plans for contingencies and emergencies, because having a problem in the middle of a large lake or ocean can be dangerous and deadly. Here are some things to keep in mind when on the water.
Make sure everyone has a personal floatation device, or life preserver
No matter what you call it, everyone needs to have a properly fitted life vest that they should be wearing all of the time. You never know when a sudden, unexpected accident might throw everyone into the water, so you don't want to be caught unprepared. Even if you have excellent swimmers on board, everyone should be wearing a personal floatation device.
Anchor - Make sure you have one and can properly use it
Improper anchoring may cause fatal accidents and not anchoring the boat can have you drifting in places where you shouldn't be going. Know when and how to anchor your boat.
Check weather reports before you leave the dock
Listen to weather reports, especially nautical weather, before you leave the dock and heed all advice, especially if there are storms looming on the horizon. You don't want to take a chance of being stranded in rough waters. Consider getting a battery operated weather radio to leave on the boat. This way, you always have a way to monitor incoming storms.
Fill up your fuel before you leave the dock
Make sure you have a full tank of gas before you leave. Even if you only plan to be gone a short time or travel a short distance, it is best to have a full tank of gas all the time. You never know what type of emergency you might encounter.
Have an emergency kit with extra food, blankets, ropes and flares
Don't forget to bring along a first aid kit, a knife, matches in a waterproof container, lanterns and/or flashlights, maps. And before you leave shore, be sure to let family and friends know where you're headed and when you plan to return. This will ensure that someone will know where to look should your vessel become incapacitated.
A day on the water is a lot of fun, but making sure you are prepared for any problems along the way will allow you to enjoy the day with confidence.
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jtrombetti says:
(151d 13h 33min ago)
As always, important and great advice Suzy!