Boat Smart – Top 10 Safety Tips

Whenever you’re heading out on the water, it’s good practice to go over safe boating tips with all passengers. Here’s our top 10:

1. Have Enough Properly Fitted Lifejacket or PFD – Be sure your passengers know where they are located.

2. Don’t Drink & Boat – Alcohol and boating don’t mix! “Leave the beer on the pier.”

3. Have A Co-Captain – Make sure there is someone else on board who is familiar with the boat and who can safely operate the boat if needed.

4. Check The Weather & Marine Forecast – Understanding weather and water conditions is important to safe boating. Know what is in the forecast so you’re not stuck in poor boating conditions.

5. Check Your Required Safety Equipment – Make sure you have the required boating safety equipment for your boat, that all is in good working order.

6. Fill Out a Trip Plan – Let a responsible person know where you will be boating, when you are expecting to arrive home, and who else is on board.

7. Complete A Pre-Departure Checklist – Complete Pre-Departure Checklist you can ensure that you’re well prepared for your boating trip.

8. Know Your Waterway – Safe boating is more than just knowing how to safely operate your boat and having your required safety equipment – you need to understand local hazards. Refer to marine charts for the waterways where you’ll be operating, locate local hazards and preferred navigation channels.

9. Check Your Flares – Make sure they are not expired and you have the proper safety flares onboard, both handheld and flare gun types. 

10. Take a Coast Guard Safety Class. By learning the necessary safe boating guidelines, you’ll be more confident when boating with your friends and family.