Set Sail with these 4 Boat Safety Tips
A boat is the perfect way to enjoy inland rivers and the open ocean. Before you leave the dock, it's important to think about safety — a small amount of pre-trip preparation can go a long way toward protecting you and your passengers on the water. For more information on boating safety in our area, contact us at Island Watersports. We also invite you to visit our location in Fenwick Island, Delaware, where we also serve Ocean City and Salisbury, Maryland.
1. Conduct Regular Maintenance and Inspections
Maintenance is one of the best things you can do to increase boating safety — when your boat is in top shape, it's less likely to experience problems on the open water. Repair small problems quickly before they escalate into larger issues. At the start and end of the boating season, conduct a full-scale inspection; the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary provides free boat safety checks. Before each trip, do a quick inspection of major systems, including the engine, fuel lines, hull, steering system, and fluid levels.
2. Stock Your Boat with Safety Supplies
Before the start of the boating season, take a few days to restock your boat's safety supplies. Start with life jackets; there should be one for every person on the boat. Then, assemble a kit that includes rope, duct tape, a pump, fire extinguisher, and emergency signals. Finally, add a fully-stocked first aid kit with a basic instruction manual.
3. Plan Weather-Safe Routes
The weather has a big impact on boating safety; as you're planning a route, check the forecast. Plot a course that avoids major storms and high-wind areas. Do another check right before you leave the dock, and adjust your course as needed. Always let a friend or family member know where you're going, particularly if you're boating alone.
4. Respect Capacity Limits
Every boat has a maximum carrying capacity. Whether you're boating across a small lake or out into the ocean, it's important to respect that limit. When a boat is overloaded, it sits low in the water; the excess weight can also create a dangerous imbalance. Under these conditions, it's difficult to control the craft. Exceeding the weight limit also makes your boat more susceptible to being swamped by waves or the wake from another boat.
The best time to think about boating safety is before you leave the dock; with these proactive tips, you can avoid common problems and enjoy a relaxing day on the water. If you're ready to take the next step toward boat ownership, call us at Island Watersports or stop by to see our inventory in Fenwick Island, Delaware. We're proud to serve customers from across Ocean City and Salisbury, Maryland.