Isn’t it exciting to steal away for the afternoon in a
motorboat for a cruise down the river? Or perhaps you
prefer an old-fashioned rowboat ride. Maybe a paddleboat is
your idea of fun. On the other hand, you might live for
the weekends when you can take an all-day sailing trip
across the lake and back.
Whatever your taste in water transportation, managing a
boat can be exhilarating and challenging. But if you’re the
one in charge of steering, renting, or navigating the
vessel, it is important to follow a few basic safety rules
and be sure that your passengers do likewise.
1. Don’t let anyone drink while on board. Many boating
enthusiasts enjoy a cold beer or a stiff drink while out on
the waves. But drinking and driving don’t mix, whether
you’re behind the wheel of a car or a boat. Many accidents
occur because of negligence, carelessness, or collisions
that stem from someone being under the influence of alcohol
or drugs, so prohibit them from your craft.
2. Keep life-saving equipment on board and up to date. Make
sure there are enough lifesavers or life rafts available
for all passengers. Before each expedition, check to be
sure they are working properly and can be quickly inflated
or repaired. Let everyone know where the safety equipment
is stored and remind them how to use it.
3. Remind passengers to behave prudently. Jumping into the
water, yelling at passing boaters, pushing or shoving on
deck, and other foolishness can lead to injury or drowning.
Make sure everyone knows what is expected, and then see
that they do it.
4. Observe boat safety laws for that body of water. Most
rivers, lakes, or seaways post specific rules of usage for
their areas, including speed limit and manoeuvring
regulations for various types of craft. Familiarize
yourself with these rules and hold to them to keep from
getting cited or hurting someone.
5. Keep an eye on the weather. Storms can come up suddenly
while you’re on the water, and sometimes you cannot make it
back to port before one hits. Have an emergency plan for a
heavy storm, including lightening strike prevention,
swamping, or flipping over. Check your radio to be sure it
works properly in case you need it for a weather or
accident-related emergency.
Sailing off in a boat of your choice can be great fun and
very relaxing. But don’t overlook the need for safety
precautions and observance.
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