Motor Boatin' Bloggin'
4 Cold Weather Safety Tips for Boating in the Triangle
February 5, 2018
Our boating enthusiasts in the Triangle haven’t stopped sailing simply because Winter is here. Our team at Motor Boatin’ knows that our local boaters utilize their vessels for transportation, fishing, or even leisure during the cold months.
Because of this, we thought it would be good to talk about Winter boating tips so that time on Falls Lake and surrounding areas is safe and enjoyable!
4 cold weather boating safety tips for our Triangle residents are:
- Wear the proper clothing. It’s going to be chilly out there and boaters should be prepared to get wet even if they don’t plan on going in the water. Layer up with clothes made of synthetic materials so that way any moisture won’t linger. Be sure to keep extra clothes stored in a waterproof container in case anyone onboard needs to change.
- Don’t forget a life jacket. Wearing a life jacket at all times is very important for boating safety in general, but especially in cold weather. The human body loses heat 25 times faster in cold water than in cold air, and losing body heat can lead to hypothermia and loss of muscle function. Be sure to wear a life jacket in case of falling overboard, it will help to keep you afloat so you don’t use energy trying to swim.
- Bring food and leave the alcohol at home. Everyone needs food to fuel the body and to help generate more internal heat! Refrain from bringing alcohol onboard and save that for when you’ve safely returned. Boating safely means boating sober.
- Ensure safety equipment is onboard. The vessel should be in good operating condition before setting sail, so be sure to double-check that all safety equipment is stocked and ready to go in case of emergency. Carry signal flares, radios, and an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) so you can alert others of your location if necessary.
