Boating can be dangerous, no matter how experienced a person is. To help you make sure you are as safe as possible while out on the water, here are some boating safety fundamentals you should consider
Life jackets
Everyone on board should have a life
jacket. These flotation devices can save a person’s life from drowning if they
go overboard. So, everyone should always wear a life jacket, especially
children. Also, make sure that the life jackets fit properly.
Fire Extinguishers
Keeping fire
extinguishers on board is also important. Each boat needs to have at least on
B-1 marine fire extinguisher, as required by the Coast Guard. Bigger boats are
require to have at least two. Make sure you know how many you need based on the
size of your boat.
Flares and distress signals
These are used in the case of a dangerous or
potentially dangerous situation to signal for help. However, to be of any use,
it is important you know when to use them. Make sure that you know someone may be in the position to see them,
whether they are on a boat or plane, or if it will be
visible from shore.
Alcohol
Everyone knows
that you shouldn’t drink and drive. But, drinking and operating a boat is just
as dangerous. And, it can lead to the same consequences, from something as
trivial as a fine to something as serious as an accident and death. Make sure
that no one is operating a boat while intoxicated to avoid these consequences.
Crew Overboard
While on board, everyone should try
to keep balanced to make sure you don’t go overboard. However, in the case that
someone does go overboard, you should be prepared. Practice an overboard drill
to prepare for this situation.
Communications
While out on the
water, cell phones can occasionally be used, but they should not be relied on.
In the case of an emergency, it is important that all boats have VHF (very high
frequency) marine-band radios on board. These are more reliable for
communications while out on the water.
Cold Weather
If you are boating
in weather that is cool and the water is also cold, then everyone should have
clothing that will keep them warm. So, everyone should wear lots of layers.
Also, wear life jackets.
Hopefully, you will keep these
boating safety fundamentals in mind when planning to go out to sea. Remember,
it’s always better to be safe than sorry, so be as safe as possible while out
boating!
To learn more about boats, boat sales, repairs, services & accessories, please contact Whiticar Boat Works, located at: 3636 SE Old St. Lucie Blvd, Stuart, Florida, 34996. Give us a call at: (772) 287-2883 or email us anytime at: info@whiticar.com
