Top Tips

5 Tips for Safe Boating

Whether it’s in motorboats, sailboats, kayaks or canoes, there’s a good chance most of us will be hanging out in some kind of boat this spring or summer. After all, it’s one of the best ways for family and friends to spend time together and experience the freedom that comes from cruising on lakes, rivers and oceans.

We all know how important it is to wear sunscreen even on cloudy days but did you know about these five simple tips to ensure your adventure on the water is as safe as it is fun?

Boating Safety Tips

Always wear a life jacket. Always have your children wear a life jacket approved by the U.S. Coast Guard while on boats, around open bodies of water or when participating in water sports. Make sure the life jacket fits snugly. Have the child make a “touchdown” signal by raising both arms straight up; if the life jacket hits the child’s chin or ears, it may be too big or the straps may be too loose.
Don’t drink and drive. A large portion of boating crashes each year involve alcohol consumption by both boat operators and passengers. To keep you and your loved ones safe, it is strongly recommended not to drink alcoholic beverages while boating.
Educate your children about swimming safely. Teach children that swimming in open bodies of water is not the same as swimming in a pool. They need to be aware of uneven surfaces, river currents, ocean undertow and changing weather.
Take the time to learn CPR. We know you have a million things to do, but learning CPR should be on the top of the list. It will give you tremendous peace of mind – and the more peace of mind you have as a parent, the better. Local hospitals, fire departments and recreation departments offer CPR training.
Keep little kids warm. Young kids are at a higher risk for hypothermia, so take a few extra precautions to keep your child warm. If your children seem cold or are shivering, wrap them tightly in a dry blanket or towel.