July 2009

Every year over 600 people drown in boating accidents, according to the U. S. Coast Guard.  Eighty-eight percent would have survived if they had been wearing their life jackets.  When driving a car, buckling your seat belt is second nature. The National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) recommends wearing a properly fitting life jacket whenever you are out boating.

It may sound obvious, but the American Red Cross recommends that everyone who is boating needs to know how to swim.  Your community YMCA offers swimming classes for children and adults. 

Alcohol and boating do not mix|
Over 50 percent of drownings occur from boating incidents involving alcohol.  It impairs your judgement, balance and coordination.  For the same reasons it is dangerous to drink and drive, people should not drink while operating a boat. If you want to drink, let another trained person operate the boat.  Passengers who drink also increase the chance they will drown because they are more apt to lose their balance when consuming alcohol.  This, coupled with the rocking boat, increases the chance of falling overboard.   

Propellers cause serious injuries
Every year propeller accidents cause serious life changing injuries and deaths.  Even experienced boating enthusiasts can be injured in a propeller accident.  The Coast Guard recommends wearing the starter key on a lanyard around your neck to prevent anyone from accidentally starting the boat while anyone is swimming near the propeller.

Take a boating course
The Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadrons and most states offer courses for recreational boaters.  Navigational rules, emergency procedures and the effects of wind, water conditions and weather are part of the coursework. To enjoy your boating experience, go to www.uscgboating.org to enroll in a boating safety class. 

Develop a float plan
This is particularly important if you are out on the open sea. Inform a responsible person about where you will be and how long you will be gone. This is important in case your boat is lost or you are delayed because of an emergency. Make sure this person has a complete description of your boat so identification is easier.  

Watch the weather
Check weather warnings and forecasts before leaving shore and while at sea. Remember to listen to weather radio broadcasts on your VHF radio.  According to NSBC, if you are out in open water and see fast moving dark clouds headed in your direction, it is usually too late to head for a safe location. 

Prepare for a boat fire
It is absolutely necessary to have a fully charged fire extinguisher on every boat. Take time to remind yourself and everyone onboard the boat how to work the fire extinguisher. Usually boat fires can be put out quickly if you act rapidly.  The following tips prevent many fires:

• Place oily rags in covered trash cans or dispose of them on shore
• Store propane fuel for stoves in a secure area.
• Clean bilges often
• Maintain proper gear stowage
• Make sure short-tie cables are properly connected

What to do if an accident occurs
If the worst happens and you have a boating accident, call 911.  An ambulance, with advanced life support and staffed with trained medical staff, will meet you at the shore to transport you to a hospital for treatment.