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Boating Safety Checklist

2019-06-05

10 Boating Safety TipsFor boating enthusiasts, being out on the water is the best part of summer--but only if nothing goes wrong. While unexpected situations do happen, many accidents and injuries that occur while boating can be prevented, or the potential damages can be substantially reduced. The U.S. Coast Guard and the National Safety Council offer many ways that recreational boaters can stay safe on the water and minimize the risk of injury for themselves and their loved ones:

10 Boating Safety Tips:

  1. Maintain your boat: Keep your precious water vessel well-maintained, cleaned and in tip-top working condition. Have it inspected and serviced on a regular schedule.
  2. Have a "float plan": Make sure someone on land knows all the details of your trip, including departure time, estimated return time, and stops you're going to make along the way. If something happens, emergency personnel will have a starting point for locating your boat.
  3. Check the weather: At best, an unexpected storm can ruin your day on the water; at worst, it can create an extremely dangerous situation that you are not prepared for. Check water conditions as well as the forecast for the day before launching your vessel.
  4. Know what's required: Before you go, familiarize yourself the rules and regulations for the state and area where you plan to travel. Always observe posted signs and requirements.
  5. Use life vests: Most people who drown during a boating trip are not wearing a life vest, so don't skip this basic safety step. Each person on board should have a life vest that fits them properly--and should be actually wearing it.
  6. Carry several communication tools: Cell phones are not always reliable when you're out on the water. It's best to have multiple forms of communication available in case something goes wrong. Having access to two-way radios, a satellite phone, GPS, emergency beacons, etc. will give you options if your cell service is poor or an emergency situation arises.
  7. Have a life ring ready: A life ring or lifebuoy can be thrown in the water if someone falls in or is struggling. Make sure you have your life ring readily available before you leave the shore.
  8. Operate responsibly: Follow speed limits and other posted guidelines. Never allow someone without a boating license to operate the boat.
  9. Drive sober: Alcohol is a major factor in fatal boating accidents. Never drive a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  10. Beware of carbon monoxide poisoning: Generators and gas engines produce carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly to those who breathe it in. Install a CO monitor on your boat and educate yourself and your passengers of the signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.

For all of your insurance questions, call or contact Mark Reid Insurance today.

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