Water safety is critical. When it comes to drowning, the danger is very real. That goes for swimmers as well as boaters. To help reduce the number of boating-related drownings, we’re discussing the value of taking a boating safety course.
Adventure and Danger on the High Seas
As anyone who has been out on the open water knows, boating can be tremendous fun. In these uncertain times, many of us are still trying to limit our exposure to other people. That’s the great thing about boating. It lets a family get out of the house and experience a little bit of adventure.
That said, boating can also be quite dangerous. If a person doesn’t take boating safety seriously, a fun outing can easily turn deadly. To prevent unsafe circumstances, it is necessary to take a boating safety course. In this way, you will become acquainted with a number of rules and regulations specifically designed to keep us safe on the water.
Learning and Maintaining Skills with a Boating Safety Course
If you’re thinking of heading out on the water, a boating safety course can be a life saver. These classes provide crucial boating knowledge and will prepare you for the potential dangers you’ll face on the open water.
We’ve discussed some tips for boating safety in the past, but a formal course is even better. Just like taking proper swimming lessons, being educated by a professional is the best plan of attack. And, again, just like swimming instruction, it is never too late to learn.
For old hands, a refresher course can reinforce good habits and eliminate some old misinformation. Young or old, it pays to educate yourself. Learning and growing can prevent potential tragedy.
There are a number of places at which you can take a boating safety course. One organization that offers these types of courses is the BoatUS Foundation. For those interested, take a look at the official website. There should be boating safety courses available near your location.
A Basic Boating Safety Course
No matter what kind of ship you are sailing, it pays to set some ground rules. These can keep you and your passengers safer from easily preventable hazards. Make sure everyone on board observes these basic guidelines. For example:
- No running aboard the vessel
- When the boat is moving, keep your hands and feet in the boat at all times.
- Only swim in areas that are explicitly designated for swimming.
- Don’t dive into the water. You never know how deep it may be.
Beyond this, it is crucial that every single person on board is wearing a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket. This rule applies to both adults and children. Age is not an excuse to avoid potentially lifesaving measures. The Coast Guard has rigorous testing standards for a proper floatation device. Make sure any life jacket you purchase is Coast Guard approved.
Additionally, adults should take extra care of kids. Make sure they’re wearing their jacket properly. It shouldn’t be too loose or too tight. To learn more about life jackets, visit the official U.S. Coast Guard website.
Life jackets, when combined with proper lessons you’ve learned by taking a boating safety course, can save lives when you’re out on the water.
