Boating Safety Tips

Boating is one of the most popular summer recreation activities, but it does have its hazards. Between running out of gas, accidents with fishing hooks and knives, and the danger of falling overboard, you need to be prepared if you’re going to be out on the water. Making a boat safety checklist is a great way to remember all of the supplies you may need in the event of an emergency.

Boating Safety: Life rafts, life jackets, and flotation

The most important thing to remember is that you must have enough life jackets on board for everyone. Life jackets can be the determining factor in a life and death situation. Store them in a safe spot to avoid injury; this way you’ll always know where to find them. Make sure you have enough life jackets for everyone who’ll be on board. Confirm that all of your life jackets are in good condition.

If you’re on a boat large enough to carry a life raft, make sure you have one on board. Also, make sure you check the trigger line to make sure it’s fastened to a strong point on your boat.

Boating Safety: First Aid Kit

Another extremely important item to keep on board is a first aid kit. First aid kits contain a number of essential remedies for cuts, scrapes, and small wounds. Here you’ll find bandages, gauze, gloves, tweezers and other items that may come in handy. It’s also a good idea to keep an emergency hook remover with your first aid kit if you plan to go fishing.

Since there is nowhere to wash your hands on a boat, it is a good idea to keep some hand sanitizer aboard; especially if you’re fishing.

Boating Safety: Oars and Paddles

You should always keep oars or paddles on your boat in case your engine dies or runs out of gas. Be sure to store them in a safe place so nobody trips over them and gets hurt.

Boating Safety: Flares and Communication

You’ll need to communicate with other boats or the shore if you have an emergency on the water. You can do this with an LED flare or radio equipment to signal to shore for help. Make sure these things are in working order. LED flares should have fresh batteries and radio equipment should be tested before leaving the dock.

Enjoy your time on the water with more Boating Tips and How-To articles.