Getting on the water in the summer is always fun, whether close to home or on a family vacation. Of course, every boating outing has the potential to turn dangerous if the proper precautions aren’t taken. No matter how many times you and your family have been boating, it’s always smart to remind yourself of basic boating safety.
Here are our top 5 safety tips for boaters this summer:
Always Bring The Right Safety Gear. If an accident happens while you’re out on the water, it isn’t always easy to get the help you need right away. That’s why it’s crucial for you to have the right equipment on board just in case. We recommend having the following gear with you at all times, even if you’re heading out for a short trip:
Flashlight: If you get stuck out on the water when it gets dark, having a flashlight and extra batteries is vital.
Duct Tape: A fast fix for any surprise leaks.
Bucket: Helps you bail out water if and when any starts to enter your boat.
First Aid Kit: Not only should you have a first aid kit on board; you and the people onboard should know how to use everything in it properly.
Whistle: A waterproof whistle will help you get attention in case of an emergency.
Ropes: If and when anyone falls overboard, having a line handy is literally a lifesaver. You can also use a rope to tie things down or secure your boat to a dock.
Mirror: Use a mirror to help signal for help on the water.
Garbage Bags: If in climate weather strikes, garbage bags can protect yourself and other equipment on board.
Fire Extinguisher: Even on the water, fires happen.
Life Jackets: Make sure your life jackets are the right size for each person and approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Have Proper Life Jackets Onboard. Life jackets aren’t just flotation devices. Today’s life jackets are engineered so that if a person becomes unconscious in the water, they turn them face up. And, the insulation from life jackets can also help prevent hypothermia.
Know the weather forecast. Before heading out on the water, always be up-to-date with the weather. Anyone who has spent time on water knows that weather can change quickly, leaving you in serious trouble if you’re unprepared.
Follow your boat’s guidelines. It’s important to know how much your boat can hold – and then follow its capacity restrictions. So many accidents happen because a boat has been overloaded with passengers or equipment.
Take a safety course for boaters. Knowing how to use your boat correctly can prevent a variety of accidents. In fact, according to the U.S. Coast Guard, nearly 70% of all boating accidents happen because the operator makes an error. Taking an in-person or online course can help keep you, your passengers, and everyone else out on the water safe this summer.
Finally, make sure you are familiar with the boating laws in your State. New Hampshire has a mandatory boating education law. Everyone 16 years of age and older who operates a motorboat over 25 horsepower on New Hampshire waters must have a boating education certificate. The Boater’s Guide of New Hampshire: A Handbook of Boating Laws and Responsibilities