It seems as though humans are naturally water creatures at heart. We migrate south in winter to warm ourselves in the ocean tide, and then head north to the cool lakes in summer. Water is good for our bodies, our souls and our spirits.
We are, after all, land creatures. So, we need water vessels to provide all of this aquatic fun. Whether crashing through the waves in a speedboat or floating on a rubber raft, it's just plain fun to spend time on the water. Fun is fun, but safety should always come first. Water can kill, and must be treated with respect. Be smart and safe regardless of how you're spending your time on the water.
Wear a Floatation Device
Every wise boater prepares for the unexpected. A quick turn to the weather can bring on choppy conditions, high waves and hard rains. Even the most experienced boaters can find the adventures cut short when the weather causes capsize or collision. No one is invincible, particularly where nature is concerned. Everyone who is present on a boat, including the strongest swimmers, must wear a floatation device. Small and young children are at the biggest risk of drowning or injury. Wearing a floatation device isn't only smart, but it's the law in many places. Some states and provinces have regulations in place that require everyone on board to wear a floatation device.
Set a Course for Safety
Experience boaters and nautical novices alike should taking boating safety courses. Most areas offer free courses, and the lessons can usually be completed in a day or two. Enroll yourself, and your entire family. Kids are never too young to learn about boat safety. If you have trouble finding safety courses in your city, see what you can find online. The Internet is a great resource for all types of courses and training programs.
Keep Booze off the Boat
Drinking and boating is every bit as dangerous, and just as illegal, as drinking and driving. You're taking the lives of others in your hands when you're operating any type of watercraft, and you need to stay alert at all times. Alcohol, drugs and even certain prescription medications will dull your reflexes and impair your judgment. In most areas, the waterways are governed by the same impairment laws that are imposed upon automobile drivers.
Use Common Sense
The cornerstone of boat safety is sensibility. You must know your limits and be sure that you can make educated decisions in a split second. Know how to react if another boat veers suddenly toward you. Know what to do if a friend falls from his water skis and disappears from sight. You'll need to make judgment calls, so understand the potential dangers and learn how to react.
Be Respectful
You expect other boaters to respect you, and you must do the same for them. Give others plenty of room to share the waters. Make it easy for other boaters to see you, day and night. Mind the local water rules and regulations, including the speed limit. Remember to have respect for your passengers and yourself. Showing off is no excuse for poor respect and dangerous behavior.
Care for Your Craft
Boat safety begins with the boat, so make sure that yours is in proper working condition. Check your craft often, and make sure that all components are in working order and meet boat safety requirements. Keeping a maintenance record of your boat is just as important as keeping one for your car. Take your boat and motor for regular maintenance, and learn how to perform emergency maintenance in the event of an accident or breakdown on the water.
Boating can mean anything from a fun kayaking trip, to an exhilarating afternoon of extreme water skiing, to a relaxing afternoon of fishing. However you choose to spend your time on the water, just remember to make boat safety your first priority.