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Stay Safe On The Water: Top Safety Tips For Recreational Boaters

May. 19 2022 Miscellaneous By Main Channel Marina

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In 2020 there were over 5,200 recreational boating accidents resulting in 767 fatalities, 3,191 injuries, and over $62 million dollars in property damage. The annual USCG boating safety report marks a 25% increase in deaths per 100,000 registered vessels.

These sobering statistics are a reminder that while boating is great fun, it should be taken seriously. It’s critical to get educated on safety and operation to protect yourself, your passengers, and your community.

Common Causes Of Accidents And Injuries 

Due in large part to the pandemic, recreational boating has seen a surge in popularity making our local waterways busier than ever. While there’s room for everyone in the great outdoors, this also means that incidents and injuries have increased.

The United States Coast Guard releases an annual report on the safety of our waterways. According to their 2020 findings, the most common causes of recreational boating accidents are:

  • Operator Inattention
  • Operator Inexperience
  • Improper Lookout
  • Excessive Speed
  • Machinery Failure

Just like driving your vehicle, many of these incidents can be avoided by operating responsibly and using common sense-like not using a cell phone while operating your boat. Following a few simple rules will help prevent you from becoming a statistic and avoid tragedy on the water.

Safety 101

Before you launch this season, review state and local guidelines and always follow these basic safety rules:

Life Jackets

The USCG estimates that in 80% of boating fatalities, a lifejacket could have saved a victim’s life. Operators should provide and insist that everyone on board wear a life jacket. The USCG advises that the best lifejacket is the one that you’ll wear, however, there are many varieties and proper fit is important.

  • Lifejackets should fit properly
  • Be in good condition
  • Be appropriate for the activity
  • Be worn while the boat is underway or during activities (like water skiing or tubing)

Federal law requires that lifejackets must be worn by those 13 and under while the boat is underway, however, state laws vary. Indiana is in accordance with federal law.  

Alcohol

Alcohol intoxication accounts for 1/3 of all recreational boating fatalities. Operating a boat while intoxicated is illegal and may result in serious fines, revocation of privileges, and possible incarceration. Be safe, not sorry. Designate a driver before you leave shore.

Get Educated

Laws differ across the US, but in Indiana if you are at least 15 and will be operating a motorboat but do not yet have a driver’s license, you need to take a boater’s safety education course. All those who will be driving a boat should take a boater education course to ensure full understanding of safety, etiquette, and operations.

In 2020, 77% of boating fatalities occurred on vessels where operators had no formal boating safety education. The USCG advises that all boaters take a safety course that meets the National Boating Education Standards.

Carbon Monoxide 

Carbon monoxide gas is hazardous-even outdoors. Be aware of where and how carbon monoxide can accumulate while operating your boat:

  • Enclosed spaces
  • Blocked exhaust outlets
  • Inadequately vented enclosures
  • Another nearby vessel
  • Moving at slow speeds or idling

It’s also critical to know the symptoms of CO poisoning:

  • Similar to being seasick or intoxicated
  • Headache, dizziness, confusion, chest pain, or upset stomach

CO poisoning can happen rapidly. Being aware of the danger and minimizing risk can keep you and your passengers safe. You may consider installing CO alarms on your boat for additional peace of mind.

Safety Kits and Supplies

Because conditions on the water can sometimes be unpredictable, do your best to be prepared. Keep necessary supplies and kits well-stocked and properly stored to keep a bad situation from getting worse.

  • First Aid Kit
  • Buckets
  • Duct tape
  • Flashlights
  • Whistle
  • Ropes
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Flotation device

Passenger Safety

Safety should always be top-of-mind when operating your boat, especially when you’ve got others on board.

  • Keep passengers away from your propellers at all times
  • Don’t allow passengers to board or exit your boat from the water while the engine is idling
  • Know what to do in case of a capsize or man overboard situation
  • Keep well-stocked safety and first aid supplies onboard
  • Always designate a lookout to communicate with passengers during activities like water skiing or tubing

Prevention and Preparedness 

In addition to basic safety, it’s important for novice and experienced boaters alike to remember to:

  • Limit distractions (like texting or phone calls) while operating a boat
  • Enlist a friend to help keep a lookout and take care of non-driving responsibilities
  • Don’t overload your boat with passengers
  • Undergo a safety check annually and each time you head out on the water
  • Make sure your boat is functioning properly to avoid a breakdown and know what to do in case of a breakdown on the water
  • Check local weather before you head out
  • Inspect any sporting equipment and gear you’ll be using
  • Familiarize yourself with the waterways you’ll be in so you can operate accordingly
  • Keep passengers safe by abstaining from alcohol while operating a boat and insisting passengers drink and behave responsibly
  • Have a well-stocked first aid kit on board and extra supplies like water, clothing, and sunscreen
  • Make a float plan for your outing and send it to someone you trust so they know when you’re going out, where you’re going, and when you plan to return

Resources 

National Safe Boating Week is May 21-27, 2022 serving as a reminder to be responsible on our local waterways. Below are some resources than can help ensure the safety of yourself and others:

Just like on land, accidents happen-even the calmest waters. Take the time to review state and local guidelines and do your best to prepare for emergencies before you head out this summer.

Happy Boating!

-The Skipper