Boat
owners rejoice! Summer weather is finally here. Time to clean out the engine and spin
the prop. But before your boat takes its maiden voyage -- make sure it’s water
ready and has all of the necessary safety equipment and tools for you and your
crew.
Boating
takes a lot of preparation before heading out on the water. But preparing a
safe boat is a key step in avoiding accidents and emergencies. Whether you’re
new to the world of boating, or a veteran boater,
it’s good to know and keep in mind the following tips when you’re out on the
water:
1. Stick to the ⅓ rule when it comes to your
gasoline consumption. ⅓ outbound, ⅓ inbound, and ⅓ for emergency reserves.
2.
Know the swimming abilities of those aboard with you. If they aren’t strong
swimmers make sure they wear PFDs (personal floatation devices) that are
suitable for their weight. You’ll always want to make sure you have enough PFDs
for everyone aboard. Place them in storage units on the boat and inform
passengers of their location in case of an emergency. All passengers under the
age of 12 must wear a PFD on any boat smaller than 65 feet long.
3.
Just like with cars on roads, there are “traffic” rules for boats on water.
Abide by them to keep you and your passengers safe. Read
a list of basics here.
4.
Any good captain knows that a good boat is a safe boat -- so keep it stocked
with safety essentials:
● Life vests
● First aid kit
● Flares
● Fire extinguisher
● Food and water
● Towels
● Floatable keychain
● Sunscreen
● Oars
● Whistle
● GPS device
● Tow ropes
5.
If you’re operating the boat it’s your responsibility to ensure your ability to
do so is not impaired. This means not making any reckless decisions on the
water or consuming alcohol. In case of an incident it is a good idea to have a
second person on board who is also able to operate the boat.
6.
Although it might not be your intention to stay out past dark, it is always a
good idea to ensure your boat’s lights are working properly before heading out
on to the water. These will also help
other boats see you.
7.
Equipment malfunctions happen, and they might not always be easy fixes. If
you’re stranded be sure to have extra tow ropes on board to hitch a ride from a
fellow boater.
8.
Plan to pull someone behind the boat on skis, a board, or tube? Before doing
so, be sure to have an additional person on board to be your spotter. You’ll
need to be on flat, calm water, with low traffic and no obstructions in your
path. Make sure that the person(s) you are pulling is wearing PFDs and
communicate to your spotter, as your only focus will be on driving in a safe
and clear path. Keep the engine off until they have floated a safe distance
away from the boat. Before leaving, be sure to pull up your ladder and ensure
your tow rope is taut. After their “ride” be sure to turn off the engine and
remind them to avoid the prop and engine when boarding the boat again.
9.
Boat storage and transportation also play major roles in boating safety. Is
your boat kept in a boat house, on a dock, or lift? You’ll need to regularly
review and maintain this area to ensure their stability and strength. Do you
instead, trailer your boat to the water? Make sure your trailer has an up to
date registration and inspection. Before leaving your home, and again before
leaving the water ensure that all signal lights are working correctly and your
trailer’s license plate is visible and legible.
Following
each of these safety precautions is what will give you, your friends, and
family a fun day on the water. Accidents do happen, and when they do, NYCM
Insurance has you covered.
