Top 10 Boating Tips - What You Need To Know!

Posted by on Tuesday May 7, 2013 3:25 pm

Top 10 Boating Tips from Wave's Boat and Social Club

boating safety tips for boating in Sarasota

The sun is shining, the weather is beautiful and the mood is perfect for a day out on the water with family and friends. However, before you depart to enjoy your boating trip, it's important to remember that safety should always come first.

At Wave's Boat and Social Club, boating safety is a top priority for us and we make sure all of our members have a firm understanding of the rules and regulations regarding boat safety and preparation.

Here's our list of the top 10 boating safety tips to ensure a safe and happy journey!

#1. Know the Weather

Always be sure to check the weather forecast prior to leaving the docks. In Sarasota especially, the weather can be quite unpredictable so it's extremely important to have knowledge of tides, currents, sunrise and sunset times and also any small craft advisory warnings.

#2. Have a Pre-Departure Checklist

Perhaps the most important boating tip, having a checklist of mandatory items before departing will help you be prepared for any situation on the water. Items to keep in mind include fuel levels, fire safety equipment, personal flotation devices, flashlights, batteries, emergency flares and of course, don't forget the sunscreen!

#3. Understand and Abide by Boating Safety and Navigational Rules

It's important to have a clear understanding of boating safety and navigational rules, including how boating instruments work, how to read boat speed and navigational signs and areas where boating is restricted. Failure to comply with boating laws could result in further penalties.

#4. Always Wear a Life Jacket

While they may not be the most fashionable items, wearing a suitable flotation device could mean the difference between surviving a boating accident or not. In fact, the majority of boating fatalities have been a result of people not wearing life jackets. Young children especially should have life jackets that fit properly, as well as adults.

#5. Don't Drink and Boat

Much like you wouldn't drink and then drive a car, boating and alcohol do not play well together. In 2009, 16% of all fatal boating accidents were a direct result of alcohol consumption. Be smart and leave the bottles on land.

#6. Use Common Sense

Common sense is one of the most important boating tips that we can give you. Use your brain and understand that a boat is a big, heavy object and can cause damage just like any other vehicle. Be aware of "No Wake" zones and designated Manatee zones. Be sure to steer clear of large rocks and stay out of shallow waters where sea grass and rocks can be abundant. Use your better judgment when on the water!

#7. Have a Float Plan

From the suggestion of the U.S. Coast Guard, it's always important to have a float plan, advising family, friends or dock staff where you're planning to go boating, how long you'll be out for and when they should expect you back. Try to make this a habit before any boat trip. Not only will it give you peace of mind, but also allows for the proper officials to be notified if you don't return from your trip when expected.

#8. Learn to Swim

Being on the water, knowing how to swim should be no-brainer. Swimming is a vital skill not only for survival, but also in the event that you need to save someone who can't swim. Check out local organizations like the American Red Cross, who often have classes on proper swimming techniques for free.

#9. Have the Proper Documentation

Whether you're renting a boat through a boating club or you own a boat, being prepared with the right documentation is a must. Documentation can include ship papers, radio license, fishing permit, etc. which should be on board at all times.

#10. Familiarize Your Guests

Anyone who is planning on joining you for your boating adventure should be aware of the safety and emergency procedures, should a situation present itself. Before even leaving the dock, be sure that all guests understand what to do in an emergency situation and are able to operate the on-board communications, such as the radio and distress signals.

Boating is an exciting and fun activity for the entire family, but you always want to make sure that safety is at the forefront of your adventures on the open water. Follow the boating tips for safety above and you'll be sure to have a great time boating, with no worries at all. We'll see you on the water!

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