Although many kids and college students will be going back to school soon, there will likely be many more days of great weather before the cold weather pushes everyone inside for the winter. If you are planning to spend some time on a boat or pull your boat up to a beach before winter sets in, having a safe and secure boating experience should be one of your top priorities. Before you set out on your next boating trip, consider these four safe boating tips.
- Be Smart About the Weather: Before setting out for a boating trip, make sure you check the local weather conditions. If storms or other bad weather is expected, postpone your trip. Dark clouds, increased wind, or sudden drops in temperature should also be indicators that you should head home as soon as possible.
- Use Your Life jacket: Yes, even if you know how to swim, you need a life jacket. Most drowning victims were boaters who were not wearing a life jacket. Even if you have great swimming skills, an accident can result in your ending up in the water unconscious or unable to stay afloat long enough to get help. Everyone on the boat should be properly fitted with a life jacket before departure and should continue to wear it throughout the whole trip.
- Have a Free Vessel Safety Check: Your vessel safety check will be performed by a certified vessel examiner from either the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or the United States Power Squadrons. The check is free, and there are no consequences if you do not pass. The check can be made at your convenience, and the examiner will offer tips to make your boating experience safer.
- Use Common Sense: Be careful about speed and proximity to other boats. Be especially aware of larger vessels, which may have trouble stopping or turning to avoid you. If it does not seem safe, avoid it.
While we hope you will have a safe and secure boating experience, your home should also be a safe place.
