Easy Boating Safety and Etiquette Tips: Basic Safety and Boating tips that will make you a better and politer boater.
Most of have been brought up on the “road” where the “rules of the road” are easier to learn and follow than being on the water. Our friendly roads have “painted lanes”, “parking spaces”, and your car does not float off due to the wind or the tide. One the Lake, there are no lanes, exit ramps, or stop signs and it always seems like everyone is going in every direction at once! Listed below are some helpful tips for new and experienced boaters.
BOATING SAFETY TIPS and ETIQUETTE
- Just like your driver license … take a boater education class. There are many online, classroom, and on the water options that are usually free!
- Take safety gear for you and everyone else! Check this equipment before you head out. It only takes a couple of minutes to do it right
- Be ready for fire … double check that fire extinguisher is on board and charged!
- Get a map or bring a GPS. Make sure you know where you are leaving from and headed before you leave the dock. The lakeshore looks all alike after a long day on the lake!
- Stop going so fast!!!! When in doubt, slow down.
- Don’t boat by yourself. If you do, check in with friends before you leave and when you get back!
- If you are going to be in the sun all day … think about that sunscreen and drink lots of water
- Do yourself a favor …. check the weather before you head out.
- Pack ample supplies and tools. Our favorite is a pair of jumper cables. Nothing worse than a dead battery after listening to music all day in your favorite party cove!
BOAT DRIVING TIPS and ETIQUETTE
- Watch your wake!!! Your are responsible for its damage. (Kind of lie a new puppy!)
- Watch you wake!!! Go slow in marinas, ramps, etc.
- A faster boat trying to pass you … let them! Slow down and wave them bye!
- Be respectful … not everyone once to listen to the same music you do. Sound carries a long way over water!
- Dont get near anyone towing a skier, wakeboarder, or someon tubing. Keep clear and stay clear
- Watch for no-wake zones and underwater obstructions.
- Help others out. See a stranded boater .. help them. You might be next!
