Get Ready for Boating Season
Life Preservers Aren’t Just for Kids
It’s not enough to just have life jackets on board — wear them! In an accident, people rarely have time to reach for a life jacket. This rule applies to adults, not just children: More people in their 30s die in boating accidents than any other age group. Life vests have come a long way in style. Today, you can even get vests for your water-loving dog!
Most home insurance policies have limited coverage for boats. If you own a boat, watercraft insurance is your best bet: It can cover theft, damage, and injuries or accidents while you’re on the water, as well as some of your expensive watersports gear.
Watch the Back of the Boat
Carbon monoxide kills in minutes. So tell your passengers where your exhaust pipes are located and turn off your engine when people are in the water, and don't let passengers "ski" or “teak-surf” by holding on to the back of the boat. Multiple states have made teak-surfing illegal, after several tragic deaths. Carbon monoxide detectors are standard on most new boats; older boats install devices for less than $100 on average.
Alcohol and Boating Don't Mix
More than 50 percent of drownings result from boating incidents involving alcohol. You don’t drink and drive, so don’t boat and drive.
Boats Need TLC Too
When you're out on the water, make sure your gas tanks are vented and bilges are free of vapors, oil, waste, and grease. Carry a charged fire extinguisher. Have your boat's operating systems checked yearly by a certified marine technician. The Coast Guard Auxiliary and United States Power Squadrons also offer free vessel safety checks.
Experience Counts!
The U.S. Coast Guard says that operator errors account for 70 percent of all boating accidents. Make sure anyone who drives your boat is properly trained. You can also earn boat insurance discounts from some insurers if you complete a safety course with the Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons.
Resources for Additional Boating Safety Information:
Coast Guard: www.uscgboating.org
Coast Guard Auxiliary: nws.cgaux.org/