All this week, we’ve been celebrating the 60th annual National Safe Boating Week. This kicks the summer boating and sailing season into high gear. At Life Saver Pool Fence, we usually focus on the backyard. That said, our driving concern is water safety. That goes double for children! As we often mention on this blog, water safety extends far beyond swimming pool fences.
Basic Tips for National Safe Boating Week
We’ve written about basic boating safety before. For more focused answers about floaties vs. life jackets, swimming lessons and more, take a look at our dedicated boating safety blog post.
Before hitting the high seas for National Safe Boating Week, let’s delve into a few more helpful boating safety tips.
Check The Weather
Nothing can ruin a fun day on the open water like an unexpected storm. It can also become dangerous, maybe even deadly, very easily! Therefore, it’s always a smart idea to check local weather conditions before pulling anchor.
Trust Your Instincts
Common sense is a critical component of enjoying the open seas. For example, even if a meteorologist reports clear skies, use your common sense. If you notice dark clouds and powerful winds… it might be time to play it safe. Get back to the dock as quickly as possible.
Slow Down
When you’re out on the water, be responsible. Operate your boat at a safe, manageable speed. This is even more important when boating in crowded areas.
Stay Alert!
Even if you know to operate your boat with care and respect for others, that doesn’t mean everyone else will do the same. Just like being behind the wheel of a car, remember to stay alert. You never know when another nearby boat may be unpredictable. Steer clear of other vessels and remember that larger ships may not be able to stop as quickly as you might expect.
Don’t Forget Your Float Plan
If there’s one thing to remember for National Safe Boating Week and beyond, it’s to let other people know you’ll be on the water! That where a “float plan” comes into the picture. A float plan is a critical safety measure for anyone hitting the open water.
It’s a document that includes your address, the names of everyone onboard, and a general plan of the day. Basically, it’s just a smart way to let other people know where you’re going and how long you’ll be gone. You can leave it with a friend, family member or even with the local marina. It’s just a smart move. You’ll find an easy-to-print float plan here.
Here are float plan instructions from the United States Coast Guard:
Complete this plan before you go boating and leave it with a reliable person who can be depended upon to notify the Coast Guard, or other rescue agency, should you not return or check in as planned. If you have a change of plans, or will be delayed, notify the person holding your Float Plan. Finally, close your plan by notifying the holder you have arrived home safely and if the holder has reported you overdue, notify all applicable rescue authorities of your safe return.
Get a Courtesy Vessel Safety Check From The Coast Guard
Speaking of the Coast Guard, they also offer a complimentary vessel safety check. They will check out your boat to make sure that all of your safety equipment is up-to-code. This offer isn’t limited to National Safe Boating Week. The Coast Guard offers this service all year long. Learn more about it here.
These are just a few helpful tips to kick off the boating season. Through education and awareness, we all can help to save lives. Happy sailing!
