Motor Boatin' Bloggin'

Boats 101: How to Stay Safe while Boating

July 18, 2018

Spending a day out on the water with friends and family is supposed to be fun and create life-long memories. If you don’t want those memories to be unpleasant, it is important to know a few safety measures before heading out, particularly if this is your first time. Here is some practical advice for how to stay safe on boats. 1. Pay attention to the weather. Some activities can still be done on a rainy day. In fact, anglers often agree that some fishing is best done when there is a bit of a rain in the forecast. However, a severe storm with high winds or dangerous lightning is no time to be out on the water. 2. Tell others where you are going. A plane must file a flight plan to let those on the ground know where they are going and the path they will take, so that if rescue services are needed, they’ll know where to go. The same is true for boats, only it is called a float plan. In this case, it involves letting someone know where you plan to go, how long you’ll be out, information about the boat, and complete information about all passengers. It is also important to let them know what type of communication and signal equipment is present on the boat. 3. Have enough lifejackets and know how to use them. Everyone hates lifejackets, but you’ll be glad you have one on if your boat sinks or you get knocked overboard and knocked unconscious. 4. Be properly trained in boating. Taking a boating course and learning to swim are two smart things to do before you head out on the water. If you aren’t familiar with the boat, consider bringing someone with you who is. Even if you are knowledgeable about the boat’s handling and operations, having a second experienced boater on board is never a bad idea. 5. Don’t drink and drive. Alcohol use on boats is every bit as dangerous as driving a car when you’ve been drinking. In fact, it can be worse because the fresh air and sun can exacerbate the effects of alcohol. Here at Motor-Boatin LLC, we offer rentals of several types of boats, including pontoon boats, fishing boats, and motorboats. We are happy to answer your questions about boat safety, so you can enjoy a great day out on Falls Lake or one of the other lakes in the area. Our online booking makes it easy to reserve boats, and you can call us with any questions you may have.