Top 5 Boating Safety Tips
Staying Safe on The Water: Boating Tips
Summer is officially here and that means we welcome our favorite warm weather activities with open arms. For those of you that enjoy boating, you might be surprised to learn that accidents on the water are relatively common. This shouldn’t stop you from having fun, but it’s important to remember that boating safety is essential for ensuring enjoyable water sport experiences.
From sailing to cruising, a day on the lake is more fun with these 5 tips to ensure your safety:
- Get your boat inspected – Vessel Safety Check is a free public service offered by the U.S. Coast Guard. They will ensure your boat meets safety standards and that proper emergency equipment is on board.
- Safety first – Wear your life jacket and always follow safety protocols. According to Erie Insurance, 82% of drowning victims were not wearing their life jacket – they are essential when it comes to water safety. Boats should always be equipped with safety gear – such as flares, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits. Never drink alcohol while operating a boat.
- Watch the weather – Avoid boating during high winds or a storm. Be sure to check the weather forecast before departure to avoid dangerous conditions.
- Keep your skills sharp – Operator error is a very common reason for accidents. Ensure you are fully aware of navigational rules to prevent collisions. If you need to brush up on your skills, be sure to sign up for a boating safety course.
- Use common sense – Stay alert at all times, operate at safe speeds, and steer clear of potentially dangerous situations. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about your boating plans and expected return time.
If your boating adventure includes water skies, tubes, and/or wakeboards, here are a couple things to remember:
- Learn how to safely use the tow rope
- Always have a spotter in the boat and ensure everyone knows basic hand signals
- Ensure the towline is free from the propeller or wrapped around you before beginning
- Wait for the propeller to stop before getting back on the boat
- Enjoy these activities during daylight hours only
With roughly 12 million recreational vessels registered in the U.S., odds are that many of you are enjoying time on the water. Whether you own a boat or plan to go on someone else’s, be sure to stay vigilant when it comes to water safety.
For added protection, one more thing to consider is getting boat insurance. If you’re interested in more information on coverage and pricing, please give our office a call.
Disclaimer: Crosby Advisory Group, LLC provides financial planning, business growth strategies and Insurance protection. CAG is a registered investment advisor. Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. Consider all risks before investing.
