Essential Safety Tips For Your Next Trip On The Water

It's absolutely critical that you observe proper safety protocols while boating, fishing, crabbing or sailing. Simple accidents can turn into major tragedies when you're far from civilization. If you want to protect your passengers and prevent damage to your vessel, here are just seven tips for smoother rides and safer tides.

Get Insurance

Make sure your boat is insured before you head out on the water. Not only will this protect you from liability if anyone is injured during your trip, but the right policy will also cover towing, vessel damage and even boat replacement costs. Coverage is available from boat insurance agencies like SkiSafe.

Check Your Supplies

In addition to things like flares, horns and spare boating equipment, you'll also want to double and triple-check that your personal flotation devices (PFDs) are fully inflated and ready for use at a moment's notice. Tell your passengers where they're stored. Seconds can matter when someone is drowning.

Check the Weather

Make sure the skies are clear for both your departure time and the hours you'll be on the water. Sunny weather won't mean a thing if it changes into a thunderstorm by the time you're miles at sea.

Share Your Float Plan

Never go out on the water without telling someone back home where and how long you'll be. Most marinas have staff for this very purpose, but you can also share your float plans with friends, family members or anyone you can trust to raise the proper alarms if you aren't back in time.

Stay Connected

All boat owners should have at least one way of communicating with the shore in case of emergency. Most people in the 21st century use cellphones, but some prefer VHF radios that aren't vulnerable to dead batteries or water damage.

Know the Codes

International signal flags can convey complicated messages through certain colors and combinations. You should also know how to signal "SOS" through flashing lights in case you find yourself stranded in the dark.

Have Your Boat Professionally Evaluated

The U.S. Coast Guard offers free vessel safety checks to boat owners anywhere in the country. Without paying a dime, you'll be able to ensure both the presence and the good working order of your safety equipment.

These are just seven steps you can take for better maritime safety. Whether you're headed off for a simple fishing trip or setting sail to the great unknown, these tips will protect you, your passengers and your boat.

Enjoy
   Richard

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