As the weather heats up and a day on the lake sounds better and better, it’s important to remember these boat safety tips this summer. It’s always important to remember that as much fun as playing in pools, boating on lakes, or swimming in the ocean can be, water can be dangerous. Each summer there are many reports of boating accidents and other injuries and deaths related to swimming activities. So make sure that you’re prepared before you head out on the water. Make use of well-fitting flotation devices for everybody on board. Whoever is driving the boat should have proper training. In addition, the driver also needs to be distraction-free and sober. And finally, stay weather aware so you don’t get caught in a storm. Hopefully, by following these tips, you can have a safe and fun summer enjoying the water.
Summer Boat Safety Tips: Stay Safe on the Water
Life Jackets
While it might seem obvious, there are still people who forgo life jackets when out boating. This is the single most important boat safety tip. Every person on a boat needs to have a life vest or flotation device that is U.S. Coastguard approved and that fits them properly. Whenever the boat is in motion, every person aboard should be wearing their vest. Even if you are a strong swimmer, if a boat were to get in an accident you could go into the water unconscious.
Training
Another important boat safety tip is that the driver needs to have the proper training to be operating the boat. The U.S. Coastguard offers plenty of online training and in-person boat safety courses. Most boating accidents are a result of driver error. So make sure that anybody operating the boat knows how to do so safely and responsibly.
Staying Sober
The driver on any boat always needs to remain distraction-free for boat safety. This means concentrating on driving without passengers trying to distract, but it also means staying sober. Just as you can get a ticket for driving a car under the influence, you can also get one for boating under the influence.
Be Weather Aware
Finally, one final piece of boat safety advice is to always stay weather aware. In the summertime, the weather can change quickly. What started as a clear and calm day can quickly turn into a storm with dangerous lightning strikes. Check the weather in your area and keep your boat radio turned on for any emergency broadcasts. In addition, make sure that everybody on board is using sun protection like hats, cover-ups, and sunscreen.
Boating on a hot summer day is the perfect way to beat the heat. However, it’s important to remember basic boat safety so that your day doesn’t turn into a disaster. Make sure that you have properly-fitting life vests for everybody on board. Children should be wearing life jackets at all times, and whenever the boat is moving all passengers need to be in vests. In addition, the driver should have proper safety training to avoid collisions or accidents. They also need to stay sober the entire time and drive distraction-free. Finally, it’s also important to stay aware of potentially dangerous weather in your area and make sure everybody stays hydrated and protected from the sun. Hopefully, you can enjoy a perfect day out on the water with these basic boating safety tips.