All of us boaters know how much fun it is to cast off the lines and set sail in the open water. However, boating can also be dangerous, especially for inexperienced boaters. By following the boating safety tips below, you can ensure that your boating adventures are not only enjoyable but also safe.
1. Be Wise to Read the Weather
You must be wise enough to check the local weather before you depart for boating. Radio, TV, and coast guard forecasts are a sure source of information. If you notice rough and volatile changing winds, darkening clouds, or a sudden dip of temperature, it is an indication for you to play safe with the weather. Watch the barometer readings for sudden changes if you have one on board.
2. Adhere to the Pre-departure Checklist
Being prepared for any eventuality in the water is a way of maintaining proper boating safety. From tips on fueling to compliance with the fire safety regulations, checking the pre-departure checklist is the best measure to be sure that no points regarding boating safety are forgotten.
3. Apply Common Sense
Using your common sense is the most important part of boating safety. Always be alert of small watercraft and large vessels that can be hindrance to your boat. You need to operate at a safe speed. Make sure that you understand and pay heed to navigational aids and buoys. These aids have been placed there to ensure a safe passage.
4. Make Sure You Have an Assistant Skipper
When you venture out on the water, it is ideal that you have one more person who is familiar with all aspects of the boat. The assistant skipper must be familiar with the operations, handling and various boating safety tips. In case of an injury to the primary navigator, an assistant skipper can safely navigate the boat to shore. Instructions for operating the VHF Radio is also essential.
5. Chart out a Passage Plan
Always inform people about your passage plan and register it with the coast guard or your local marina staff. Passage plan is the course of the route you will be taking and the number of days you are intending to be out at sea. A typical passage plan consists of: your name, your address, your phone number, and the phone number of the trip leader. It should also have the names and phone numbers of your passengers. You should include the type of boat, the registration information, the itinerary, the signal and safety equipment in the boat and other types of communication means on board. Do not forget to de-register your passage plan with the coast guard or marina staff on safe arrival at your destination.
6. Make Use of Lifejackets
Most victims give up their life in water because of the lack of proper knowledge of using the life jacket. Prior to departure, try your life jacket on so it is properly adjusted and ready for use in case of an emergency.
7. Avoid Alcohol
Safe boating should also be free from alcohol. When alcohol is involved, the chances of accidents double. Alcohol tends exacerbate other external factors, such as wind and sun.
8. Learn to Swim
Both you and your passengers should know how to swim. Many organizations offer you swimming lessons for all ages of people. In case you do not know how to swim, take a lesson as early as possible.
Follow the above boating safety tips on all of your boating adventures so that you can relax and enjoy the experience. If you have any other tips on boating safety to share with our community, enter them in the comments section below.
