Browsing Safety: Ten Tips to Increase Browsing Safety
Boat safety is essential for boating enthusiasts. Here are ten tips to help you be a safe boat operator.
1. Plan ahead…use your head.
Check with the Coast Guard, your local Department of Natural Resources official, or your boat dealer about our state’s laws and regulations regarding the operation of a PWC. Check the weather forecast before you leave shore and check the weather radio while you’re on the water. Storms can come up quickly in summer and lightning is very dangerous for boaters. Because water is a conductor of electricity, get out of the water quickly when lightning strikes.
2. Read the owner’s manual.
There are valuable tips about your boat in the manual. Take the manual, a tool kit and crucial spare parts with you when you ride. Seal them in an airtight container to prevent damage.
3. Wear ALL the right gear.
Do not be an idiot. ALWAYS wear a life jacket or flotation device when boating. You must have a device for each person on the boat. Always carry emergency equipment, such as a first aid kit, a flashlight, extra batteries, extra clothing and blankets, and maps. And don’t forget the sunscreen and sunglasses.
Make sure you are equipped with a throwable personal flotation device in case someone falls overboard. Other important equipment would include a towline, jumper cables, an extra paddle or oar, a fire extinguisher, something to bail out in case your boat capsizes, and audible and visual distress signaling devices such as a whistle, air horn, orange smoke device, and flares.
4. Practice in a safe place.
If you want to be a safe boat owner and enjoy your boat more, practice boat handling. Practice safe acceleration, braking, turning, and awareness of your surroundings.
5. Take a training course.
Many times, dealerships offer training courses to teach safe and fun operation of personal watercraft. The United States Power Squadron, the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, the United States Boating Association, and the American Red Cross offer boating courses. Sign up for the courses that are available, from beginners to expert traders.
6. Do not drive in restricted areas or at restricted hours.
Some lakes restrict the locations and hours that the boats can be operated. Know the rules and willingly follow them.
7. Stay alert and stay in control.
NEVER take drugs or drink alcoholic beverages while boating. Make sure your speed matches your operating experience, weather conditions, boat traffic, and potential hazards.
8. Do a pre-trip inspection.
Check your controls, lights, fuel/oil levels, and helmet before you begin your ride. Do this EVERY TIME you start your trip, even between trips on the same day. Please remember this is a recreational unit but rough use can break things. When refuelling, open the bilge and engine compartments to allow vapors to escape. Do the obvious and check your drain plug.
9. Avoid sailing alone.
Just as you should never swim alone, you should avoid sailing alone. Sailing is great fun, but it comes with its own dangers. Create a “floating plan,” which means you tell someone where you are, where you’re going, and when you expect to return.
10. Get insurance protection for peace of mind.
Make sure you have the best boat insurance coverage for you. This will protect your unit from damage and will protect you from any liability should others be injured or the property of others be damaged while you are sailing.
By following these ten tips, you’ll have the best chance of having fun on the water!