SmartHomeOwners

Summer boating with the family can provide many hours of enjoyment.  It provides a means to swim, relax, water ski, fish and enjoy numerous other water activities.  Many families go boating while on vacation or while visiting their summer home on the lake. 

Whether boating on a pond, a river or on the ocean, safety should be a priority.  Many boating accidents occur due to lack of preparation or failure to follow basic safety rules.  Here are a few safety tips for boating with family.

1.  Make Sure Everyone Can Swim

Boating is not safe for those who don't know how to swim.  If that individual accidentally falls into the water, he could drown and another family member could drown or get hurt trying to rescue that person.  Even small children should be taught to swim at a young age.  If you have time before your next big boating trip, check your local area for swimming lessons and enroll everyone in your family who cannot swim.

2.  Wear Life Jackets

Everyone on board should wear a life jacket...even the best of swimmers.  Knowing how to swim doesn't eliminate the need for a life jacket because a person could get hurt if the boat were to overturn.  Swimming is very difficult if one hurts an arm or leg or hits their head on the boat.  Find out what your state's requirements are for life jackets for specific ages.  For young children, opt for swimsuits with built-in flotation devices.

3.  Understand Boat Operation

If it's your first time operating a certain type of boat, don't "learn as you go."  Get specific training or instructions on how to operate the boat.  Know how to troubleshoot problems and also what to do in case you lose control of the boat.

4.  Avoid Drinking and Boating

Boating and drinking do not mix just as drinking and driving!  If you must drink, don't drive a boat.  Many boating accidents occur each year due to drinking.  Alcohol dims a person's ability to make decisions and also hinders basic thinking and motor skills.  It's not worth the risk, and most states have strict laws prohibiting this.

5.  Show Others How to Behave in the Boat

Make sure your family members (especially younger children) understand how to behave while riding in the boat.  There should be no horseplay, jumping around, hanging off the sides of the boat, etc.  Don't wait until it happens to teach your guests how to ride; instruct them on boat etiquette ahead of time, before an accident occurs!

6.  Proper Entrance and Exit

Accidents can also occur while getting on and off the boat.  Make sure the boat is secured tightly and close enough for easy entrance and exit.

When on a holiday or summer boating trip, your family's safety must come first.  Boating can be a fun, exciting getaway if you follow these important rules.