Boat Safety Tips: Protecting You and Your Investment
At Portsmouth Atlantic Insurance, we’re very passionate about helping you have the best experience possible while boating with family, friends, guests, etc… while also enjoying your time out on the water to the fullest extent. Safety is paramount when it comes to boating, and we hope this post will offer you greater insights into some basic, yet extremely important safety tips for when you’re boating out on the water. The best way to proactively protect yourself, your passengers, and your boat is by abiding by core safety principles and habits. Below are some of the top boat safety tips we’ve assembled to help you have your best experience yet boating while staying safe out on the waters. Enjoy!
Wear a Life Jacket – Always
Wearing a life jacket is a no-brainer. Even if you’re the strongest swimmer within your group, you never know if you’ll need a life jacket to keep you afloat should you fall unconscious while boating and land in the water. You’ll want to ensure your life jacket and the life jackets of others aboard are securely fitted, coast-guard approved, and available for each and every one of your passengers aboard your boat. In the event of a boating accident, a life jacket can truly be a life saver.
From the insurance perspective: Boating accidents can be very unpredictable, and life jackets are able to reduce the risk of fatal outcomes in many cases. Protecting your life and the lives of others on your vessel is of the utmost importance. Try to avoid heartbreak and tragedy by simply insisting on everyone wearing their life jacket for safety.
Check the Weather Before You Go
Weather conditions can change rapidly, especially out on the lake or sea. You should always verify the weather is safe prior to departure from your home, and prior to departure from the dock. If you feel it may be unsafe with dangerous weather looming, it’s best to call it a day. Go with your gut, and when in doubt, stay out of the water.
From the insurance perspective: Claims related to weather damage are some of the most common forms of boat-related insurance claims. Being proactive by checking the weather for the day, and also checking the weather prior to launching from the dock will help you have the best chance of enjoying your boat with great weather while keeping you and your family safe and sound.
Conduct a Pre-Departure Inspection
Prior to launching from the dock, you’ll always want to conduct a pre-departure boat inspection. Even just taking the extra five minutes to go through and cross all the “Ts” and dot all of the “Is” can be a life saving prevention measure in certain scenarios while out on the water. You’ll want to run through the standard list of pre-departure inspection points. Checking the engine, the fuel levels, the navigation lights, and safety equipment such as fire extinguishers and flares can help you have a safe day out on the water. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure your communication devices, such as radios and cell phones are functioning properly.
From the insurance perspective: Many claims relating to boats stem from mechanical issues. A quick pre-departure inspection of your boat can prevent costly breakdowns and reduce the need for emergency towing; ultimately saving you time, money, and frustration.
Follow Navigation Rules
We’re always told to “follow the rules of the road” when beginning to learn how to drive. The same applies with boating and the rules of the waterways. The rules of the waterways are designed to prevent collisions and ensure a smooth level of boat traffic flow. You’ll always want to maintain a safe speed when out on the water with your boat and be sure to observe the right-of-way rules. You’ll also want to use your horn and navigation lights when needed. They’re there for a reason, so make use of them if necessary.
From the insurance perspective: Collisions are one of the leading causes of insurance claims and deaths with boating. Knowing the rules of the waterways and following said rules can be a key component of having a safe boating experience.
Avoid Alcohol While Boating
Operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol is not only dangerous, it’s also illegal. Alcohol impairs your ability to make quick, sound decisions and judgements which are necessary when traveling on the water and responding quickly to an emergency situation.
From the insurance perspective: Accidents which involve alcohol consumption by the operator of the boat will likely lead to denied claims and legal consequences. Staying sober, alert, and aware while boating not only protects yourself and your boat, but those around you as well. Bottom line: don’t drink and drive.
Create a Float Plan
Prior to heading out on the water, you’ll want to share your itinerary with a friend, a family member, or someone who will have knowledge of your whereabouts. When sharing these details, be sure to include where you’re going, who’s on board with you, and when you plan to return. This information is so valuable in the case of an emergency.
From the insurance perspective: During emergency situations, every second truly counts. A float plan can help first responders locate you and your boat quickly in the event of an emergency, possibly minimizing overall damage and loss.
Invest in Safety Equipment
Ensure your boat is equipped with essential safety items, including:
- Fire extinguishers
- First-aid kits
- Visual distress signals (flares)
- Sound-producing devices (horn or whistle)
- An anchor and enough rope
From the insurance perspective: Well-prepared boaters file fewer claims because they can often address minor issues before they escalate.
Enroll in a Boating Safety Course
Just as motorcyclists typically enroll in a motorcycle safety course, the same should be done with boating safety courses. Even your most experienced boater can benefit from a refresher course. Boating safety courses will often cover navigation tactics, safety protocols, and emergency handling to properly ensure you’re as prepared as you can be for nearly any scenario.
From the insurance perspective: Some insurance policies offer discounts for boaters who complete safety courses. It’s a win-win—enhanced safety and potential savings on premiums! Some boat insurance policies may offer discounts to those boaters who complete boating safety courses. It’s a win-win for both insurers and boaters—enhanced safety and a savings in premiums.
Practice Safe Loading
Incorporating safe loading practices when distributing weight evenly over the boat can be a crucial safety component. You’ll never want to overload your boat with too many passengers, not only for excess weight reasons, but also for overcrowding purposes. An unbalanced boat is more likely to capsize, especially in rougher waters.
From the insurance perspective: Many boating claims involve incidents where there was an improper or unbalanced load on the boat, causing a capsize event or other forms of damage. It’s best to take the time to properly load and balance out your boat to avoid costly mishaps.
Have the Right Insurance Coverage
While incorporating safety measures can certainly reduce risk, accidents are still bound to happen somewhere, sometimes. Comprehensive boat insurance can help to ensure you’re financially protected from unexpected events, whether it’s related to damage, theft, or liability for injuries.
From our perspective: Boat insurance is your safety net. At Portsmouth Atlantic Insurance, we’re here to provide you with the right level of coverage and support when you need it most.
Contact Portsmouth Atlantic Insurance Today to Learn More About How We Can Help You Have the Best Boating Experience Yet
At Portsmouth Atlantic Insurance, we believe that the best boating experiences are the safest ones possible. By adhering to these safety tips, you’re not just protecting yourself and your passengers—you’re also preserving your investment and avoiding easily preventable accidents. If for some reason, the unexpected does happen, you can rest assured knowing we have you covered. Feel free to contact us for a boat insurance quote today. Enjoy the water responsibly, and let us handle the rest!