Basic Boating Safety
On a nice day with fair weather, many boaters decide to take their boats out on the water for a variety of recreational purposes. Whether you’re cruising in your pontoon or angling in your aluminum boat, you’re bound to have a great, relaxing time. Boating isn’t without its risks, though, like any other form of transportation, so it’s important to prepare yourself accordingly before you head to the lake. Your local boat dealer, Andersen Boat, has provided this guide to basic boating safety to help you get equipped and be smart while you’re in your boat. Our dealership is located in Burnt Hills, New York, so come to us if you have any questions about boating safety!
Be Prepared
A little preparation can save you a big headache later on. Give your boat a thorough examination before you load her onto your trailer. Check the hull for cracks or signs of damage you might have missed after your last excursion and see that her lights, signals and engine are functional. Write a checklist of everything you’ll want to take with you, including all your safety equipment, which we’ll detail below.
Let a trusted friend, neighbor or family member on shore know where you’re going to be boating and how long you anticipate being gone. This way, if you get lost or stranded, they can alert rescue crews to your whereabouts.
Designate someone on your boat to be an assistant skipper in case your ability to operate your boat is hampered by injury or illness. This person can take over steering to get you and your crew to safety in an emergency.
Check The Weather
You don’t want to set sail or fire up your outboard only to pilot yourself directly into an oncoming storm. Check the weather in advance of your outing to make sure you’ll have fair skies and low winds. Delay your trip if the forecast indicates high winds, heavy rains, hail, lightning or very cold temperatures. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Double-check the forecast the morning of your departure in case anything has changed.
Acquire Safety Equipment
You should stock your boat with several pieces of safety equipment to keep you and your passengers safe in an emergency situation. There should be a life jacket available for every passenger, and these should be worn at all times on smaller craft. It’s advisable to only take people on board who know how to swim and keep themselves afloat if they fall into the water. Bring a throwable life ring with a sturdy rope to catch any people who fall overboard. Carry a well-stocked first aid kit with seasickness medication and holistic remedies like candied ginger, a phone with charger, an emergency radio, signal flares and a fire extinguisher to be prepared for all eventualities.
Use Common Sense On The Water
When you’re boating, you should use both common sense and follow the regulations established by authorities. Never drink alcohol or use drugs before or while operating your boat. Not only will intoxication impair your focus and slow your reflexes, but alcohol reduces blood flow to your extremities, putting you at a heightened risk of developing hypothermia if you fall into the water. Stay smart and stay sober. If you have health conditions or take prescription medication that could impair your ability to operate a boat, leave the wheel to someone else.
When passing other boats or watercraft users, head to the right and give them a wide berth. Watch out for swimmers in the water and make sure to give them enough space. Don’t speed past other boats and create wakes that splash them or destabilize them. At the dock, be patient while both unloading your boat and loading it back up because there likely will be lines on a nice day. Steer away from debris and shallow areas so you don’t damage your boat or run it aground. If you experience an emergency or have an accident, stop your boat’s engine and signal for help, then remain in place until help arrives.
Visit our showroom today if you’re in need of a boat for cruising, fishing or entertaining. We carry a wide selection of new and used boats in many styles. The Andersen Boat dealership is located in Burnt Hills, serving the cities of Albany, Saratoga Springs and Schenectady, New York. Stop in to see us with any boating questions you might have!