According to the U.S. Coast Guard, the most common boating accident occurrence is a collision with another vessel on the water. If you spend any time on the water this year, the following tips will help keep both your family and your boat accident-free.
- All boaters should know the rules of the water. Safety courses are available in order to learn more about navigation rules. Many states have their own requirements in addition to the federal requirements, so it’s smart to research the laws in your specific state to learn more.
- When out on the water, assign a passenger the job of being a lookout – someone who is responsible for watching for other boats nearby, people in the water or hazards which are often difficult to see.
- Do your homework and know what the signs mean. Then comply with all signage and respect barriers. That includes staying under the posted speed limit and adhering to signs posted for no-wake zones and underwater obstructions. Also, when entering an anchoring or mooring area, reduce your speed.
- Keep red navigational aids, such as buoys, on your right when passing them.
- Power-driven vessels must give way to sailboats and fishing boats unless in smaller spaces, where it’s harder for larger boats to maneuver.
- When passing or meeting another boat, keep a safe distance and speed. Be aware of the wake you create because there are laws which make you accountable for any damage done.
- When anchoring, be sure to anchor a safe distance from any other boats to avoid entanglement with other lines.
- Have a designated driver. Boating Under the Influence (BUI) offenses are handled much like those for driving a car while intoxicated.
- Remember to carry a personal flotation device for every person who is on board.
- Have at least one approved fire extinguisher on board and carry approved visual distress signals.
- When boating after dark always use appropriate navigation lights.
