Boating offers a relaxing and calming experience, especially to those who enjoy spending time with nature. However, it comes with a great deal of responsibility. Whether a novice or an experienced boater, you must remember specific boating safety tips to ensure a smooth and safe experience. This blog covers tips on how to boat safely.
Boating Safety Tips
1. Wear a Life Jacket
The first and most important safety tip is to wear a life jacket, regardless of whether or not you know how to swim. They are meant to keep you afloat if your boat turns over or you fall into the water. It will help if you read up on the local regulations regarding life jackets. For example, most states require children to wear them at all times.
2. Check the Weather Before Boating
Boating is ideal for sunny days but there is always a chance of experiencing a storm. Common indications of a storm include speedy winds and choppy water. It is best to check the check beforehand to avoid getting stuck in bad weather.
3. Don’t Fill Your Boat Beyond its Capacity
All boats have a certain weight limit, beyond which there is a high risk of capsizing. Therefore, avoid filling the boat with people or equipment beyond its maximum capacity. You can find this information on the boat’s decal.
4. Check your Boat for Harmful Fumes
After refueling your boat, check for fumes by opening all the hatches. Don’t start the engine if you detect a strong smell. A buildup of carbon monoxide in and around your boat could suddenly render you or your visitors unconscious. Thus, it would be best if you were mindful of all the areas where gases and pollutants might gather, including:
- Canvas enclosures that aren’t properly ventilated
- Obstructed exhaust valves
- Nearby boats
- Confined areas
- While your engine has stopped, is running slowly, or is idle
5. Read Up on Emergency Procedures
All states provide procedures for handling boating emergencies. You should read up on them as they will keep you safe in life-threatening situations. These procedures typically include tips on handling a fire, surviving in cold water, saving someone who fell off the boat, and more. It also mentions how to use and what to say on the marine radio in an emergency.
Final Word
Do you want to add a boating dock to your property to make the boating experience more enjoyable for you and your family? Nor Col EZ Dock is here to help. They provide plastic floating docks in Manitoba and many other parts of Canada. You can browse their plastic docks in Ontario by visiting their website. You can also call (800) 654-8168 for more information.
