Summer is here, which means it’s time to pull out the old boat and get back out onto the water. Nonetheless, no matter how much boating experience you may have, you should still be extra careful on your boat, especially with kids and pets. So here are some basic boating safety tips that you, and everyone else on your boat, should follow the next time you’re out on the water:
Have safety gear on-hand
You never know what might happen, that’s why it’s always best to be prepared and have plenty of safety gear on-hand in case of emergencies. Here’s a quick list of some of the items you should have on your boat at all times:
- First aid kit
- Life jackets
- Flashlight
- Duct tape
- Whistle
- Bucket
- Fire extinguisher
- Rope
Avoid alcohol
Operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol is illegal, just as it would be if you were driving. So make sure you have no alcohol in your system before heading out onto your boat, or at the very least, have a designated driver for the day.
Keep an eye on the weather
Check the weather forecast a few days before to make sure there won’t be any problems on the day you set out. Then, on the morning of, see what each hour has in store just in case the forecast has changed. And while you’re out on the water, always keep an eye to the sky, checking for any dark clouds, choppy waters, or signs of possible storms heading your way.
Follow proper docking procedures
This includes both leaving and arriving at your dock. When launching your boat from your dock, follow these steps to safely set your boat free. As you’re returning to your dock, make sure your bumpers are out and reduce your speed as you get closer to your dock.
Getting the proper kind of dock will also ensure that you stay safe on your boat. So take a look at the various docks that V-Dock has to offer in order to get your summer boating trips off on the right foot.
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