Staying Safe on Your Boat
There’s nothing as peaceful as a relaxing day on the water: cruising around, enjoying the scenery, and soaking up the sunshine. Lots of us are drawn to boating because we find it peaceful and relaxing. One great way to keep it enjoyable instead of stressful is to stay safe. We’ve created this guide to boat safety, so read on to learn more!
Make a Plan
You should always inform someone on shore about where you’re planning to go and when you expect to return. If something goes wrong, they can alert the authorities. It’s also important to have someone on the boat designated to act as an assistant skipper. They should know about the ins and outs of operating your boat, so they can take over if you’re incapacitated.
Consult the Weather Forecast
Always check the weather forecast for the day of your trip. You’ll probably check in advance, but it’s also critical to do another check right before you depart. The weather can change in an instant and you can’t completely rely on forecasts. Storms can appear out of nowhere without warning. If you confront unexpected bad weather when you are out, be prepared to turn back and give up your plans for the day.
Bring Safety Equipment
Every boater should have a checklist of what to bring, and safety equipment should be the first priority. There should be a personal floatation device (PFD) for each passenger. Your boat should have a life ring to throw in case anyone falls overboard. Also, have a fully stocked first-aid kit, an emergency radio, a fire extinguisher, and signal flares.
Be Alert and Aware
Be on the lookout for debris and steer clear of it. Avoid shallow areas that may run your boat aground or damage your propeller. Always be on high alert for swimmers and people doing other watersports so you can give them plenty of room. As you load and unload at the dock or the ramp, be patient and allow everyone enough space to deal with their boat. If you experience a collision or breakdown, turn off your engine and immediately call for help.
For more information about boat safety, or to check out our inventory of boats for sale, visit S&N MotorSports in Port Charlotte, Florida. We welcome all our patrons visiting us from Fort Myers.