Fishing Frenzy

Boating safety is crucial so that each trip is successful and nobody gets hurt. Drugs cannot be taken, and safety equipment needs to be kept on the boat and in reach. Weather must be monitored continually and someone must be told where the destination of a trip is. Boats should never be overloaded and all rules and regulations always followed.

No drugs or alcohol can be used before or during a boat ride. The results of alcohol are made stronger with wind, vibration, noise, glare, and sun exposure while on board. Further, in 2008 thirty-five percent of all boating deaths were found to be linked to drugs or alcohol. Of all reported accidents, twenty percent had the same cause as well.

The right safety equipment should be on board at all times and regularly maintained. Each individual on board needs to wear a life jacket that fits properly. Fire extinguishers are also necessary for safety, especially in boats with closing compartments or false doors. Always ensure it remains charged and easily accessible.

Boat lights should be regularly checked and extra batteries kept at hand just in case. Emergency supply kits are also key and should have flares, floating pouches, maps, and a first aid kit. Look over the anchor and double check that someone knows how it is properly used. If done incorrectly, the anchoring process can lead to fatalities.

Problems may be caused by unfriendly weather. For this reason, a close eye should always be kept on the weather. Make sure there is radio access to warn of any incoming problems. Danger signs include shifts in the winds, flashes of lightning, and rough water. When bad weather is known to be coming, get off the water as soon as possible. Doing so will also minimize the time spent waiting in line for other water craft. There is also a risk, if water is very cold, of catching hypothermia.

In case of unanticipated events, always make sure someone is briefed on the destination of trips and the planned return time. At the beginning of each trip following a refueling, open all hatches. Check if fumes are present before starting the engine. If fumes are detected the engine cannot be turned on.

Check destination areas for any rules that are in place. There could be different requirements from the area of origins. Always make sure that registration is current and that the boat is displaying a sticker from the right year.

Never overload boats. Its listed maximum capacity should never be exceeded. After loading, make sure launching is done as smoothly as possible. All covers and straps should be removed before getting in line. Equipment should be inside before reaching the ramp. Double check the gear to make sure it works correctly and is plugged in. Have someone on the pier holding the line and helping with boat handling while waiting in line for a launch.

Boating safety is critical for all on board. Examples of this include not doing drugs, having the correct equipment, and monitoring the weather. Every rule and regulation must be followed always and boats should never be overloaded past their capacity.