Going out on a boat is a favorite pastime for many in Michigan. There is nothing like being on open water, feeling the sunshine, and breathing in the refreshing breeze. Before you head out on the boat alone or with others, you need to know how to boat safely to avoid any accidents or troubles while on the water.
Here is a checklist to help you start your summer on the best foot:
1. Know how to operate a boat.
What may seem like the most obvious tip is not always one that boat owners do from the beginning: Learn about boats and how to operate them. Most states require boat operators to pass some form of boating education. Since boating is more than knowing how to steer, shift gears, slow down, or dock, a required boating class teaches safety techniques and waterway laws. Of course, you will want to know how to operate your specific boat model before you take your boat out.
2. Inspect the boat.
Before starting the boat, make sure it is in working order. If you hear any strange sounds or noises that are louder than normal, find out what is causing them. Check that your life jackets, fire extinguisher, and emergency supplies are on the boat and easily accessible.
3. Check the weather.
Weather can significantly impact water conditions, so check the forecast before leaving the dock. If the forecast calls for strong winds, rain or storms, stay off the water. All these factors can make a boating experience dangerous.
4. Wear life jackets.
Wearing a life jacket is often the difference between life and death. Some states require children under a certain age to wear a life jacket while on any type of boat, so research the life jacket laws in your state.
Activities such as wakeboarding or tubing require life jackets. That is because these activities are done at high speeds and can cause injuries. Even if you are planning a casual, quiet, float on the water, have a life jacket for each person on board. Weather and water conditions can change quickly.
5. Do not drink and drive.
Drinking while driving a boat is not just illegal, it is extremely dangerous. In fact, it is so dangerous that the U.S. has passed a federal law against boating under the influence.
Drugs and alcohol significantly affect motor skills, judgment, and reaction time. None of these should be impaired when operating a boat.
Boating under the influence can lead to deadly accidents, expensive fines and even jail time. The U.S. Coast Guard states that drinking while driving is even more dangerous on the water than on land.
6. Check your surroundings.
Enjoying the view of the beautiful water and surrounding area makes boating a great experience. Staying aware of your surroundings and what is in the water is still critical.
Look out for debris in the water, other boats coming too close, people on skis or tubes, and other motorized watercraft like Jet Skis.
7. Do not leave any passengers behind.
Boating can be full of distractions: from conversations and music on board to the noise from other boats. Always check that your entire party is safely on board before pulling away from the dock. When taking part in water sports like tubing, swimming, and wakeboarding, make sure everyone in the water returns to your boat before you leave.
8. Understand the ways of the water.
Just like on land, there are rules for maneuvering in the water with other boats. Before pulling away from the dock, make sure you know which direction you are required to leave from the dock. It is important to know which boat has the right of way, where you can and cannot stop, the speed in the wake zone, and more. Understanding the rules of water will keep you and others safe.
9. Put together safety and tool kits.
Be prepared for any event before taking off in the boat. Keep a safety kit and a toolkit on board. Include items like a flashlight, a bucket, a first-aid kit, and duct tape. Know who to call in an emergency.
10. Know where you are.
Know where you are and how to get back to your original destination at all times. Even if you do get lost, you will need to be able to tell others where to find you.
11. Power off the engine before entering the water.
Before entering, exiting, or swimming near the boat, turn the engine off. Once the engine is off, the motor and fast-moving propellers stop working and will not be able to injure anyone who gets near them.
12. Follow the rules.
Set safety rules for your passengers and enforce them while you’re out on the water. If a passenger does not follow the safety rules, ask them to leave the boat to ensure the safety of others.
The memories you make while boating with your family and friends can last a lifetime. While you are working on getting your boat ready for the water, check in with us. We will help you find options to protect your boating needs.
