Boating safety is key to making each trip a positive one and preventing injuries. No drugs should be used, and safety gear must always be present and accessible. Constant monitoring of the weather is also necessary, as is informing someone of the destination of a trip. Do not overload boats and always respect to any rules or regulations that apply.

No drugs or alcohol can be used before or during a boat ride. The results of alcohol are made stronger with wind, vibration, noise, glare, and sun exposure while on board. Further, in 2008 thirty-five percent of all boating deaths were found to be linked to drugs or alcohol. Of all reported accidents, twenty percent had the same cause as well.

The right safety equipment should be on board at all times and regularly maintained. Each individual on board needs to wear a life jacket that fits properly. Fire extinguishers are also necessary for safety, especially in boats with closing compartments or false doors. Always ensure it remains charged and easily accessible.

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.

Problems may be caused by unfriendly weather. For this reason, a close eye should always be kept on the weather. Make sure there is radio access to warn of any incoming problems. Danger signs include shifts in the winds, flashes of lightning, and rough water. When bad weather is known to be coming, get off the water as soon as possible. Doing so will also minimize the time spent waiting in line for other water craft. There is also a risk, if water is very cold, of catching 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.

Boats must not be overloaded. It has a weight capacity listed that should not be exceeded. While launching, do so safely. Remove every strap and cover before in line for launching and have equipment in the boat before the ramp. All equipment needs to be double checked for correct functioning and be plugged in properly. It is recommended to have someone holding the line and assisting in handling the boat from the pier when in line to launch.

Boating safety is very important for all on board. Examples of correct safety procedures include not doing drugs, maintaining correct gear on board, and looking for suspicious weather. Every regulation and rule must be followed and boats should never be loaded past their capacity.

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