Whether you’re hitting the water for a job or pleasure, staying safe on summer boat trips is easy with these tips from the maritime law firm of Schechter, Shaffer & Harris.
Be Prepared
The first step to staying safe on the water is to be ready for anything. Before heading out, make sure to do the following:
- Weather check: Unexpected storms while on a boat can be much more dangerous than a summer thunderstorm when you are on land. Check the weather before disembarking. If you’re on a boat while a storm hits, crouch down in the center until it passes. If you can, go below deck.
- Mechanical check: No matter what type of boat you’ll be on, it’s vital to ensure your craft is water-ready. Make sure fuel is topped off and all systems are fully operational.
- Capacity check: Every watercraft, from kayaks to commercial fishing boats, have a load capacity. Make sure your vessel isn’t carrying too many people or too much equipment.
- Lifejacket check: U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices should be worn by boaters at all times.
Practice Safety
When your journey on the water is underway, these safety tips should be observed:
- Avoid alcohol: Drinking while on a vessel doubles the chances of being killed in an accident. Leave the alcoholic drinks on shore for when you get back.
- Take it slow: While there are not official speed limits on the water, safe and reasonable speeds are still critical for your safety and the safety of those on the water with you.
- Beware of others: Summer is prime time for people swimming at the beach or diving in the open water. Watch out for them and keep a safe distance from anyone who is in the water.
- Beat the heat: The hot summer sun can quickly cause dehydration if you aren’t careful. Apply sunscreen and drink plenty of water to prevent this.
From the maritime lawyers at SMSH, have a safe and happy summer on the water!
