It’s hard to imagine having more fun on land than you can have on a boat. Whether it’s fishing, wakeboarding, water skiing, or simply hanging out on a pontoon boat, watercraft are natural leisure vehicles. But as fun as they are, they can also be very dangerous if you let your guard down. Below, we’ve created a guide for boating safety so that you’ll be ready for any situation. If you’re in the market for a new boat, or are looking for parts and accessories for your current one, RVs & Boats For Less in Chubbuck, Idaho can set you up with everything you need. Our shop is perfect for customers in Pocatello, Twin Falls, and Idaho Falls, Idaho, as well as Logan and Salt Lake City, Utah.
Safe Boating Practices
Staying safe on the water is a matter of knowledge and preparedness. Observing a few simple rules, and keeping a calm clear head can lead to a lifetime of fun, safe boating. Every time you get on the water, check the forecast, sure it may be bright and sunny when you set out but you don’t want to get caught in the middle of the lake when a storm reaches full force. Before you set out, you should also make sure that you go through a full pre-departure checklist to make sure that you have all of the required safety equipment onboard, and that all of your safety equipment will function properly if you’re called upon to use it. Another important pre-trip precaution every boater should take is to leave your float plan with someone (a family member, someone at the marina, or both) so that if you don’t return on time help can be sent as soon as possible.
Once you get on the water, use common sense. Keep your speed moderate, stay clear of larger vessels, and keep your eyes peeled for navigational hazards, as well as navigational aids. Make sure that you have an assistant skipper picked out in case you become incapacitated for any reason. This person should be able to take control of the boat, and the crew, in an emergency situation.
It’s important that you also arm yourself with the knowledge of how to react properly in an emergency. Every captain should be a proficient swimmer. Not only should you know how to swim, but you should be versed and practiced in water rescue techniques, so you can help a distressed crew member without endangering yourself. To make sure that boating safety remains fresh in your mind, take a boating safety course. If you’ve already taken one of these courses, but it’s been a few years then sign up for a refresher course, you can never be too prepared!
This almost goes without saying, but we’ll say it anyways: Stay sober when you boat. It’s a matter of safety for everyone on the water with you.
Critical Boating Safety Equipment
Your boat should provide a PFD for each passenger, and boats in excess of 16’ also need to be equipped with a throwable Class !V flotation device. All passengers should be briefed on where to find a PFD, and how to properly don this piece of equipment.
Your boat should be outfitted with a horn that’s capable of producing a four second blast that is audible from at least half of a mile away. A spare air horn should be kept on hand in case of a mechanical failure. Every PFD should have a signal whistle as well. Your boat should be equipped with functioning navigation and instrument lights. Make sure you have a flashlight onboard in case of an emergency.
Flares and other signal devices should be stowed in a secure, accessible place to ensure they stay dry and functional. Your boat should also be equipped with one or more charged fire extinguishers. Passengers should be told where to find this equipment, and how to safely use it.
Make sure that your boat is equipped with a toolbox and spare components. A spare fuel filter, extra light bulbs, spark plugs, and through hull plugs should all be onboard. You should always make sure your engine is fully fueled with fresh oil before you take off.
Small boats and boats with liquid propane should maintain well ventilated interior areas. If you smell fuel, make sure you run your blowers for several minutes and check that the smell has disappeared before you restart. If the smell of the leak is still there shut down the engine and prioritize locating the leak.
Batteries should be fully charged before departure. Spare batteries for small devices like flashlights and radios should be kept on hand.
Always equip your boat with suitable anchoring and docking gear, including dock lines. Make sure that your dock lines are in good condition before casting off or tying up to the dock.
Make sure you keep your boat’s papers, and a chart of the area on hand as well.
Best Boats for Safe Boating
This guide may provide an overwhelming amount of information, but it’s crucial to be prepared for any situation. Even when you’re just looking to have a good time, safety should be paramount. If you’re just getting into boating for the first time, stop by RVs & Boats For Less. If you live in Pocatello, Twin Falls, and Idaho Falls, Idaho, or Logan or Salt Lake City, Utah, our team of experienced boating professionals can help outfit you with everything you need to have fun and stay safe.
