Boating safety is important to make sure each trip is a successful one and that no one gets hurt. No drugs can be taken, and safety equipment must be kept on a boat and in easy reach. There must be constant monitoring of weather and someone needs to be told where a trip is headed. It is important not to overload boats and to follow all rules and regulations that apply.
There should never be any drugs or alcohol used before or while operating a boat. The effects of alcohol become stronger with sun exposure, glare, noise, vibration, and wind experienced while on board. In fact, in 2008, of all reported boating deaths thirty-five percent were related to drugs or alcohol. Twenty percent of accidents had similar causes as well.
The correct safety equipment needs to be on board always and routinely maintained. Every individual should wear a life jacket that correctly fits. Fire extinguishers are crucial for safety, particularly in boats that have closing compartments or any false doors. Always check that it is charged and within easy access.
Boat lights should be tested and extra batteries stored on the boat. An emergency supply kit is also necessary. It should include a floating pouch, a first aid kit, maps, and flares. Inspect the anchor before each trip to make sure it is where it should be and someone knows how to properly use it. If used improperly, anchoring may cause fatalities.
Unfriendly weather is another reason for concern. Therefore, the weather must be continually monitored at all times. A radio should be accessible so that warnings of incoming problems can be heard. Signs for concern include flashes of lightening, shifts in the winds, and rough water. When bad weather is confirmed, move to get off the water as quickly as possible. Doing this minimizes time spent waiting for other water craft in lines. Staying on the water and being exposed to cold waters can also increase risks of hypothermia.
To err on the side of caution, always make sure someone is notified of a trips destination and the planned time of return. Following each refueling and before taking off, open every hatch. Smell to make sure there are no fumes present before starting the engine. If the smell is suspicious, do not turn the engine on.
Check the destination area for any regulations that may be in place. There could be additional requirements not in place from the originating area. Always keep registration current and on the boat and make sure the boat has a sticker displayed for the correct year.
Never overload boats. Its listed maximum capacity should never be exceeded. After loading, make sure launching is done as smoothly as possible. All covers and straps should be removed before getting in line. Equipment should be inside before reaching the ramp. Double check the gear to make sure it works correctly and is plugged in. Have someone on the pier holding the line and helping with boat handling while waiting in line for a launch.
Boating safety is critical for all on board. Examples of this include not doing drugs, having the correct equipment, and monitoring the weather. Every rule and regulation must be followed always and boats should never be overloaded past their capacity.
There should never be any drugs or alcohol used before or while operating a boat. The effects of alcohol become stronger with sun exposure, glare, noise, vibration, and wind experienced while on board. In fact, in 2008, of all reported boating deaths thirty-five percent were related to drugs or alcohol. Twenty percent of accidents had similar causes as well.
The correct safety equipment needs to be on board always and routinely maintained. Every individual should wear a life jacket that correctly fits. Fire extinguishers are crucial for safety, particularly in boats that have closing compartments or any false doors. Always check that it is charged and within easy access.
Boat lights should be tested and extra batteries stored on the boat. An emergency supply kit is also necessary. It should include a floating pouch, a first aid kit, maps, and flares. Inspect the anchor before each trip to make sure it is where it should be and someone knows how to properly use it. If used improperly, anchoring may cause fatalities.
Unfriendly weather is another reason for concern. Therefore, the weather must be continually monitored at all times. A radio should be accessible so that warnings of incoming problems can be heard. Signs for concern include flashes of lightening, shifts in the winds, and rough water. When bad weather is confirmed, move to get off the water as quickly as possible. Doing this minimizes time spent waiting for other water craft in lines. Staying on the water and being exposed to cold waters can also increase risks of hypothermia.
To err on the side of caution, always make sure someone is notified of a trips destination and the planned time of return. Following each refueling and before taking off, open every hatch. Smell to make sure there are no fumes present before starting the engine. If the smell is suspicious, do not turn the engine on.
Check the destination area for any regulations that may be in place. There could be additional requirements not in place from the originating area. Always keep registration current and on the boat and make sure the boat has a sticker displayed for the correct year.
Never overload boats. Its listed maximum capacity should never be exceeded. After loading, make sure launching is done as smoothly as possible. All covers and straps should be removed before getting in line. Equipment should be inside before reaching the ramp. Double check the gear to make sure it works correctly and is plugged in. Have someone on the pier holding the line and helping with boat handling while waiting in line for a launch.
Boating safety is critical for all on board. Examples of this include not doing drugs, having the correct equipment, and monitoring the weather. Every rule and regulation must be followed always and boats should never be overloaded past their capacity.
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Taking the boat on Lake Ontario this weekend? Don't get caught without an Ontario boating license. Take time today to complete a boating Exam, you can take the test online and have a pcoc today.
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