Boating Safety Guidelines To Follow - By: Adriana Noton

Boating safety is important to make sure each trip is a successful one and that no one gets hurt. No drugs can be taken, and safety equipment must be kept on a boat and in easy reach. There must be constant monitoring of weather and someone needs to be told where a trip is headed. It is important not to overload boats and to follow all rules and regulations that apply.

There should never be any drugs or alcohol used before or while operating a boat. The effects of alcohol become stronger with sun exposure, glare, noise, vibration, and wind experienced while on board. In fact, in 2008, of all reported boating deaths thirty-five percent were related to drugs or alcohol. Twenty percent of accidents had similar causes as well.

The right safety equipment should be on board at all times and regularly maintained. Each individual on board needs to wear a life jacket that fits properly. Fire extinguishers are also necessary for safety, especially in boats with closing compartments or false doors. Always ensure it remains charged and easily accessible.

Boat lights should be tested and extra batteries stored on the boat. An emergency supply kit is also necessary. It should include a floating pouch, a first aid kit, maps, and flares. Inspect the anchor before each trip to make sure it is where it should be and someone knows how to properly use it. If used improperly, anchoring may cause fatalities.

Problems may be caused by unfriendly weather. For this reason, a close eye should always be kept on the weather. Make sure there is radio access to warn of any incoming problems. Danger signs include shifts in the winds, flashes of lightning, and rough water. When bad weather is known to be coming, get off the water as soon as possible. Doing so will also minimize the time spent waiting in line for other water craft. There is also a risk, if water is very cold, of catching hypothermia.

In case of unforeseen circumstances, always notify someone of the destination of a trip and the planned time of return. After refueling and before departing open all hatches. Smell for the presence of fumes before the engine is started. If there are fumes present the engine must not be turned on.

Check the destination area for any regulations that may be in place. There could be additional requirements not in place from the originating area. Always keep registration current and on the boat and make sure the boat has a sticker displayed for the correct year.

Boats must not be overloaded. It has a weight capacity listed that should not be exceeded. While launching, do so safely. Remove every strap and cover before in line for launching and have equipment in the boat before the ramp. All equipment needs to be double checked for correct functioning and be plugged in properly. It is recommended to have someone holding the line and assisting in handling the boat from the pier when in line to launch.

Boating safety is crucial for everyone on board. This includes not doing drugs before a launch, having necessary equipment on board, and paying attention to the weather. All rules and regulations must be followed at all times and boats must never be overloaded past capacity.

About the Author

Taking the boat on Lake Ontario this weekend? Don't get caught without an Ontario boating license. Take time today to complete a boating Exam, you can take the test online and have a pcoc today.

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