Boating Safety Tips

It’s hot outside, and it’s only getting hotter as July and August approach. If you haven’t already, it’s time to get your boat out and hit the lake this weekend. There’s nothing like leaving the stress of your life behind in a cloud of dust as you hit the dirt road to the lake. Just imagine the sweet feeling of cool spray on your face, or the joy of bailing into the water for an afternoon dip.

It’s one of the best ways to free yourself from the chains of day-to-day responsibilities. It’s your way of becoming a kid again. The only thing that could ruin your perfect weekend is an unforeseen accident resulting from neglecting the basic rules of safety. Let’s review them real quick so that you can get back to your daydreams of the perfect weekend.

No Alcohol

Drink, but only drink hydrating liquids, eg. water, PowerAde, and juices.  Just don’t drink anything with alcohol. Drinking always impairs your judgment, especially when you think that you’re not affected. To avoid the chances of a dangerous boating accident, do not drink and drive. There are severe legal consequences for your behavior as well.

Don’t Overload Your Boat

Keep to the recommended number of passengers only. Your craft was designed to handle a certain amount of weight. This means that it can still perform optimally to keep you and your passengers safe in most situations (if there’s a competent driver at the helm). As you ignore those recommendations, you potentially put each of your passenger’s lives in danger.

Wear Lifejackets

They’re not always the most comfortable, nor are they the most fashionable, but they do offer protection when the unthinkable happens. Life jackets are designed to keep you afloat when you’re unconscious, tired, or otherwise incapacitated from an accident. In an environment where heat exhaustion and accidents can happen to anyone at any time, protect yourself with life jackets to protect yourself and others.

Keep to the Speed Limits

Just like on the road, the speed limits are designed to avoid the worst of accidents. Follow them to keep yourself and others around you safe.

Refresh with a Boater Education Course

It never hurts to take a training course again to get a refresher on some of the fundamental skills involved with practicing safe boating.

As you remember these five important tips, you’ll have a safer, more enjoyable time knowing that you’re doing the best you can to keep you and your passengers safe.

photo credit: Bex.Walton via photopin cc