Basic Boating Safety

For many boat owners, there's no better way to spend a warm day than out on the water fishing, wakeboarding, or just cruising around. Boats are designed for having a good time, and many modern boats offer better features and faster engines than ever before. But it's also important to remember that there is the potential for danger while you're boating if you fail to prepare properly, don't respect the water, or are just plain unlucky. How you equip your boat and plan before you ever head out will determine the outcome of your trips on the water.

We here at L & M Marine designed this short guide to provide some basic boating safety tips to our customers. Of course, this isn't meant to take the place of a boating safety course or getting your boating permit, but if you need a quick refresher on boating safety, look no further.

Preparation

Preparation is key to have a safe boating trip. Boats are very much subject to the weather, so checking the day's forecast is a good place to start. Check for wind speeds, tides, and the chance for precipitation. If there are chances for squalls, lightning, or other serious weather conditions, it's probably best to stay on the shore. If the weather changes unexpectedly, it's always best to head back in and return on another day. You don't want to battle mother nature.

Another important step to take is to create a float plan. A float plan is basically a short itinerary that lists where you will be and when you plan to be there. This itinerary should be left with someone on the shore such as a law enforcement officer or a friend. If you don't come back on schedule, they will have more information about where to look for your boat. This will greatly reduce the search radius and increase the chances that you'll be found.

Equipment

Having the right safety equipment is extremely important. Life jackets are the most important piece of safety equipment for any boater. Everyone on the boat should have their own life jacket that fits them correctly. It's important to actually wear these life jackets because they won't serve their purpose if you get in a crash without yours on. Children should wear life jackets at all times when on a boat, even if they're competent swimmers.

Fire extinguishers are another extremely important piece of safety equipment. A fire out on the sea is very dangerous, especially an engine fire. An engine fire could leave you stranded and without any power. The worst case scenario is that the fire could spread to the fuel supply causing an even larger fire or an explosion.

On top of these basics, you'll want a small survival kit and a first aid kit. Things like space blankets, signal flares, a compass, a floating survival knife, and some basic fishing line and hooks can increase the chances that you'll be able to survive any disaster.

Tips for Safe Boating

When you're out on the water, it's important to make smart decisions. Be considerate to the other boaters and always try to signal them if you need to pass by. If they have swimmers in the water, slow down and give them room. Always follow posted speed limits and avoid hazardous areas. Stay within your limits as a boater and respect the water. Staying on the conservative side of boating is always safer.

Hopefully, this short guide offered a few helpful safety tips for your next boating trip. If you need parts and maintenance for your boat, don't hesitate to give us a call here at L & M Marine. We're located in Stapleton, Alabama, near Mobile and Theodore, and we proudly serve the areas of Pensacola, Florida, and Biloxi, Mississippi!