Boat Safety Overview

Humans are land mammals, but we sure love our time in the water. People will go to great lengths to travel to cool northern lakes in the summer, and hot southern beaches in winter. A vacation just isn't the same without spending time in the water.

We are, after all, land creatures. So, we need water vessels to provide all of this aquatic fun. Whether crashing through the waves in a speedboat or floating on a rubber raft, it's just plain fun to spend time on the water. Fun is fun, but safety should always come first. Water can kill, and must be treated with respect. Be smart and safe regardless of how you're spending your time on the water.

Floatation Devices

All smart boaters prepare themselves for the unexpected. Weather can quickly turn ugly, causing high waves and blinding precipitation. Collisions and capsizes have brought countless boating trips to abrupt ends, even for the most experience boaters. Don't think that you're invincible. Everyone on the boat, even strong swimmers, must wear a floatation device. Small and young children are particularly at risk or injury or drowning. It's not just a smart thing to do; in many places, everyone in a boat is required by law to wear a personal floatation device.

Stay on Your Safety Course

Whether you're a nautical novice or an experience boater, it's a good idea to take a boating safety course. Free courses are available in many areas, and lessons can be completed in just a day or two. Sign yourself up, and your entire family. No child is too young to appreciate the dangers of the water, and learn how to stay safe. Check online if you have trouble finding a boating course. The Internet can be the best way to find information on available programs.

Keep Booze off the Boat

Operating watercraft takes keen sense and, sometimes, rapid reflexes. Using drugs or alcohol will impair your judgment and slow your reflexes. Even prescription drugs can take a dangerous toll on your boat safety. In most areas, the impairment laws imposed upon automobile drivers affect watercraft drivers in the same capacity. Your craft and someone's life can be at stake if you use alcohol or drugs on the water.

Be a Good Judge

Boat safety is ultimately about sensibility. Be aware of the extent of your abilities. Know whether you can make intelligent, split-second decisions. What will you do if another boat suddenly veers toward you? How will you help a buddy that falls from his water skis and disappears from your line of sight? It can happen, and you'll need to have the common sense to make the right decision. Know your options and you'll be better prepared.

Respect Rules

Respect on the water is just as important as respect on the highway. Be aware of other boaters and respect their rights to share the water. Other boaters need to be able to see you in the blinding sun of daytime and the deep dark night. Keep within the water speed limit. Follow the rules of the waterway. Respect your passengers and your own safety, as well. No one is impressed when you show off and take risks.

Maintain Your Boat

A well-maintained boat is a safe boat. Know how to maintain your boat and fix it in the event of breakdown or collision on the water. Check the boat and motor often to ensure that everything is in good working order. Keep a maintenance record of your boat, just as you do for your car.

Whether you love to cruise in a kayak or hit the waves on a wakeboard, the water can be a great way to cut loose and relax. Just make sure to respect the potential dangers of the water, and always make safety your first priority.