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Basic Boat Safety Tips

Mar. 21 2023 Health & Safety By Island Watersports

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Boating is a great way to spend time in nature, reduce stress levels, and make memories with family and friends. As a responsible boat owner, you likely want to be safe about what you’re doing. That means doing everything you can to plan out your boating trips. Follow the tips below to practice good boat safety.

1. Educate Your Passengers

You should always show your passengers where everything is on your boat and name an experienced passenger as your skipper, so they can operate the boat if you suddenly can’t for some reason. Children will need to know that they shouldn’t jump or run or climb around the boat, nor should they bother the operator while they’re operating the boat.

2. Keep Your Boat Maintained

Staying on top of boat maintenance ensures that your boat always functions as it should. Make sure you’re following the guidance offered in your owner’s manual. When you need assistance with routine maintenance or you’d like a yearly inspection, get in touch with the Island Watersports service department so we can make you an appointment.

3. Check the Weather

Before every voyage, it’s a smart idea to check the forecast for the place you’re going to boat in. You and your boat can likely handle some cool weather or light rain, but you should probably avoid going out at all if thunderstorms, hurricanes, blizzards, or very extreme temperatures are expected. The NOAA can give you up-to-the-minute information about current weather conditions off the Atlantic coast.

4. Carry Safety Gear

You should always make sure that your boat is well-stocked with necessary safety equipment, such as a throwable life ring, life jackets for every passenger, a radio, flashlights, a fire extinguisher, blankets, and a first-aid kit.

5. Make a Plan

It’s helpful to make a boating plan before you go out so that you can share it with someone back on shore, especially if you’re going out on the ocean. This way, that contact can get in touch with rescue crews to alert them to your approximate location so you can get help if you don’t return on time.

Looking for a boat in Delaware? Stop by our Fenwick Island location to check out our amazing stock of new and used boats for sale. Our sales team is also happy to assist you in finding a boat rental or financing your boat purchase. You can even join our boat club! Island Watersports serves our Maryland customers in Ocean City and Salisbury.