5 Boat Safety Rules Every Boater Should Know

5 Boat Safety Rules Every Boater Should Know

When it comes to operating different types of vehicles, driving a boat is a totally different ball game. Unlike walking, biking, or driving, boating is really involved and comes with a lot of rules that aren’t always intuitive. After all, you’re operating a complicated piece of machinery. If you’re up for the challenge, peek at our 5 boat safety tips below.

1. Keep a Boat Safety Kit on Deck. At all times.

No matter the size of your boat, you need to have all the right safety tools in place. Let’s take that one step further: You need to know where your safety tools are at all times. Your boat safety kit should at the very least include:

1) A first aid kit

2) Life jackets

3) Rescue tubes

4) Flashlights

5) Garbage bags

6) Whistles

7) A fire extinguisher

2. Check the weather from a reliable source.

Just like lifeguards are on top of weather conditions 24/7, it’s important for boat operators to know what to expect from the weather before driving a boat. If you see a severe storm on the radar, think twice before taking the boat out. If it’s a high UV index day, load up extra on high-SPF sunscreen.

3. Know your boat’s maximum capacity and never exceed it.

There’s a person limit for a reason! Before operating a boat, know what the maximum capacity is and be sure not to go beyond that number.

4. Follow anchoring and docking procedures.

Before getting your boating license, you’ll take several courses on safely anchoring and docking boats. While the regimen can sometimes feel tedious, it’s important you follow this protocol for the safety of your boat and passengers. Taking shortcuts is never the answer!

5. Take boating safety courses and CPR courses.

For boating safety, you can take online or in-person courses with the Boat U.S. Foundation or the U.S. Coast Guard. It’s also important you know how to perform CPR and first aid, so you can take a course with the American Red Cross. These courses aren’t a one-and-done — it’s important you regularly brush up on your skills to make sure you’re informed of the latest knowledge on boat and CPR safety.

Ready for your boating day? Once you ensure you’re operating a safe vessel and you have all the knowledge and tools you need, you can hit the water without worry. Happy boating!

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