Summer Boating Safety
It’s summertime, which means the water is looking even more welcoming than usual. Any sunny day offers the perfect excuse for spending a day out on the water, particularly for boat owners. While a perfect day out on the lake or sea seems like a relaxing endeavor, the truth is there are a lot of safety precautions and preparations necessary to ensure everyone has a good time and returns home safe and sound.
Boating safety is especially important because it can help reduce both personal injury and property damage that could occur during a recreational boating excursion. Whether you’re heading out for a casual summer day or planning a holiday weekend on the water, being aware of all the risks and necessary safety precautions will keep all participants safe.
Utilize a Free Vessel Safety Check
Did you know that the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary has been offering a free Vessel Safety Check program for boat owners since 1947?
A Vessel Safety Check (VSC) is a free program that ensures your watercraft’s equipment is complying with federal and state safety requirements. It can be conducted just about anywhere – on the slip, at the dock, or on a trailer in your driveway. Depending on the size of your boat, this check takes anywhere from thirty to forty-five minutes to complete. Those who pass are awarded a sticker that alerts other law enforcement agencies that your boat was found to be in compliance.
Vessel examiners are trained to look for common issues such as the overall condition of the boat, navigation lights, proper display of numbers, fire extinguishers, proper ventilation, backfire flame control, and more. They will also check to make sure the proper number of personal flotation devices are available for all members of your party.
This safety check includes a discussion around the purpose of specific marine safety equipment, safety procedures and practices, and answers to additional questions. Examiners outline how to properly report accidents, determine float plans for weather conditions, offer survival tips, and share available boating safety classes.
Upon completion, you’ll have peace of mind that your vessel meets the minimum safety standards that, in an emergency situation, will provide you the equipment necessary to save lives and call for help.
Pack a Boat Safety Kit
The first step to preparing for a day on the boat is to pack or check your previously packed boat safety kit. Make sure all necessary items are present and stored safely. Your kit should include:
- Life jackets and wearable personal flotation devices (PFDs) for all passengers. If your life jackets have seen better days, inspect them carefully to make sure they can still act as life-saving devices.
- Throwable flotation device
- Fire extinguisher
- Sound and visual signaling devices
- Anchor with line
- Bailing device, such as a bucket
- Oars or paddles
- Very High Frequency (VHF) radio and reliable cell phone
- Heavy-duty flashlight, knife, flares
- Medical kit for small emergencies
- Drinking water and nonperishable food items
For summer boating, pack extra sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. The heat during this season means you’ll need plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Pack extra snacks too, as food just tastes better on the water.
Once everything is packed, make sure you have a full tank of gas and open all the hatches to smell for fumes. If detected, it’s not safe to start the engine, and it should be inspected further. Carbon monoxide can unexpectedly accumulate in and around your vessel, and it’s far too dangerous to expose yourself and your passengers to extreme levels of gas.
Check Weather Patterns and Have a Backup Plan
Before you head out into open waters, a good captain knows just how important it is to review weather reports and patterns to ensure a safe return to shore. Check both the local weather as well as the destination forecast, when possible. Weather can change in a matter of moments, so keep an eye on things throughout the trip, looking for sudden shifts in the wind, dark skies, lightning, or choppy water.
This is especially important during busy holiday weekends when the water is crowded and conditions can shift rapidly. Try to have a backup plan in case the weather goes sour. Just because your day starts without a cloud in the sky doesn’t mean an afternoon storm won’t sneak up on you. If you notice any warning signs while out, it’s time to head back to shore to ensure everyone gets home safely.
Have an Emergency Plan
It’s important to file a float plan with someone you trust (and who will be on dry land while you’re out on the boat). Your float plan should outline where you will be going, your vessel information, passenger log, towing or trailer information, communication equipment, and other emergency contacts. The United States Coast Guard offers a basic float plan template you can fill out and file before you head out on your next adventure.
Knowing basic CPR can help you in a number of situations, particularly when near open water. Brush up on practicing proper CPR steps on a regular basis to keep that information top of mind.
Know Who’s Onboard
A day on the boat is so much better with friends and family. The more the merrier. But it’s important to know the comfort level of everyone onboard with the water. Make sure you have a life jacket for every single person on board, and confirm they’re in good condition.
If you’re bringing extra friends along, particularly during holiday weekends when group outings are common, be sure that they’re in good health and have been making healthy choices. The smaller the group, the safer. And whatever the size, do a head count regularly to make sure that the entire crew is accounted for.
Play by the Rules of the Road
Brush up on the “rules of the road” if you plan to be the captain on your next boat day. Rules on the water don’t differ much from those you follow when driving your car, but it’s crucial to use common sense. Maintain a safe distance from others, follow all posted signs, and keep your wake low when near others. Stay alert at all times, observe safe speeds, and ensure that passengers remain on the boat when in transit.
If swimming off the boat is planned, use the 10-second rule. Little kids should count to 10 after the engine is turned off before jumping into the water. When you’re ready to get going again, do a head count to make sure that the entire crew is back on board.
Be Courteous and Stay Sober
Operating a boat while under the influence is illegal. In fact, nearly half of all boating accidents involve alcohol. This is especially important during busy holiday weekends when there will be a lot of people out on the water and a large police presence. Designate a sober captain before you get out on the water. Keep yourself and those around you safe by not drinking and boating. If you want to partake in partying festivities, secure your sober captain before departure.
Have a Plan for Man (or Woman) Overboard
In a best-case scenario, everyone stays on the boat, seated while in motion, and comfortable throughout the day on the water. But it’s always best to be prepared for the worst and hope for the best. Having a “man overboard” plan in place could make a life or death difference:
- Turn off the motor and propellers immediately.
- Remain calm and throw a floatation device to the passenger in the water.
- Direct them to float on their back and paddle slowly and calmly in place until you can safely retrieve them.
Follow Proper Docking Procedures
Returning to the dock can be a challenge, depending on the wind, current, and type of vessel you’re operating. Be sure to put your bumpers out as you approach the dock or shore to avoid any damage, and make sure the docking lines are secured to the boat.
Reduce speed as you approach the dock or shore, allowing the wind or current to help you come in the additional few feet. Secure the lines and announce when it’s safe to deboard the vessel. This is especially important during busy holiday weekends when the docks may be crowded with other returning vessels.
Plan for Fireworks and Nighttime Navigation
If your crew wants to be on the water for holiday fireworks, make sure to check your navigation lights before heading out and know your route home. Things look very different in the dark, and the water will be more crowded than usual. Some of your furry four-legged boaters and younger sailors might not like loud noises, so plan accordingly for their comfort.
If you’re planning a holiday weekend on the water, call ahead to make your launch reservation at least 24 hours in advance. This helps marinas manage the increased demand during busy weekends and ensures everything is ready when you arrive.
Staying Safe
Summer boating offers the promise of relaxation, adventure, and time with the people you care about most. Whether you’re heading out for a casual weekday afternoon or planning a busy holiday weekend, following these safety practices keeps everyone protected and lets you focus on having fun.
At Morningstar Marinas, we pride ourselves on the community of boaters we’ve created across the Southeast’s top boating destinations. Our facilities and services, paired with our friendly and knowledgeable team members, help you quickly and efficiently get out on the water so you can start having fun. We’re here to support safe, enjoyable boating experiences every time.
Ready to head out? We’re here to help. Stop by a Morningstar Marinas location near you or reach out with any questions about safety, gear, or getting your boat ready for the season.