Boating Safety Day 2
Boating Safety is of utmost importance when
planning a day or longer trip on the water.
Always check local weather conditions for boating
safety before departure - TV and radio forecasts can be a good source of information. If you notice darkening
clouds, volatile and rough changing winds, or sudden drops in temperature, play it safe by getting off the
water.
Proper boating safety means being prepared for any possibility on the water. From
compliance with fire safety regulations to tips for fueling up, following a pre-departure checklist is the best way
to make sure no boating safety rules or precautions have been forgotten.
One of the most important parts of boating safety is to use your common sense. This
means operating at a safe speed at all times, especially in crowded areas. Be alert at all times, and steer clear
of large boats and watercraft that can be restricted in their ability to stop or turn. Also be respectful of buoys
and other aids to navigation, all of which have been placed there for one reason only - to ensure your boating
safety.
Make sure more than one person on board is familiar with all aspects of your boat’s
handling, operations, and other boating safety tips. If the primary navigator is injured or incapacitated in any
way, it’s important to make sure someone else can follow the proper boating safety rules to get everyone else back
to shore.
Whether you choose to inform a family member or staff at your local marina, always be
sure let someone else know your float plan in terms of where you’re going and how long you’re going to be
gone.
A float plan can include the following information: name, address, and phone number
of trip leader: name and number of all passengers; boat type and registration information; trip itinerary; types of
communication and signal equipment onboard.
A resource for all first mates is Brenda
Dawson's
ebook "First Mate 101 "
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Information Next: Day 3 Knots
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