Boating Safety: 6 Tips to Keep You Safe This Summer

We can help you protect your boat, but it's up to you to protect yourself and your passengers when out on the water. Whether you are new to boating or been around them all your life, it's important to make sure that you and everyone else aboard follows Boat Safety Tips

basic safety guidelines and practices common sense. These boating tips will help keep your next trip on the lake or river both safe and enjoyable.

>> Life Jackets! - Life jackets save lives. It is recommended that all passengers wear a life jacket at all times when on the water, although most people don't. Even if you don't plan to wear a life jacket at all times, it's important to consider these tips:

1. Check each life jacket to ensure it's in good good condition and isn't waterlogged.
2. Make sure that there is a life jacket available for each person aboard.
3. Ensure that each person has a jacket that fits them properly.
4. Store life jackets in a place that is easily accessible to everyone onboard.

>> Never Boat Alone - It's always a good idea to have at least one other person with you when boating. If you were to get into trouble out on the water, having another person with you could save your life.

>> Don't Drink and Boat - Just like when driving a car, it's illegal to drink when driving a boat. The Coast Guard estimates that 50% of all boating deaths involve alcohol.

>> Be Prepared - Make sure that you have the proper safety equipment onboard and know how to use them if needed. Some examples of standard safety equipment include a fire extinguisher and first aid kit.

>> Keep Others Informed - It's always a good idea to let someone know that you are going out on the water. Be sure to tell them when you are leaving, when you plan on returning, and where you plan to travel. If something goes wrong while you're on the water, this information could be invaluable.

>> Practice Common Sense - In most situations, boating safety involves just using common sense. Don't engage in horseplay onboard or allow your passengers to do so, travel at reasonable speeds, and be aware of your surroundings.

To learn more about boat safety visit the U.S. Coast Guard’s Boating Safety Website. To keep your boat protected year-round, get a free online boat quote.

By Matt Reynolds - Google+

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