What I learned in Boating School is….

What I learned in Boating School is….

Erika Schoeneberg

Florida Keys

June 13, 2017

Whether you are going out on a dive boat, shark tagging, on a jetski or even in a kayak, you should always be aware of boat safety so that your experience is a positive one!  Living on land gives humans a little bit of a challenge out on the water.  There are boating accidents and water related injuries/deaths more often than they should be.  By being aware of a few boat safety rules accidents can easily be avoided.

Boating school

Each state has different rules and regulations for their boaters.  There are boating classes offered in almost every shore community that a cheap and take just one day or can be completed online.  Getting a boating license is a good idea if you plan on being out on the water, even swimming or kayaking.  Being in the water means that you have a good chance of encountering a boat.  Knowing simple rules like red right return and what channel markers are can make you better prepared and understanding of boats you may be on or around.  Don’t worry, boating school does not mean you will be under high stress like Spongebob was, it is fun and considerate.  After completion, you can help boaters with your new knowledge of knot tying and water reading.

Know your boat

Every time you step aboard a vessel, you should be aware of where emergency equipment is located.  Always check to make sure the boat is registered, if it is not the owner may be irresponsible or unaware, two things you don’t want your driver/captain to be.   By locating emergency equipment such as life vests, life rafts, first aid kits, fire extinguishers and flares, you can lower your reaction time to an emergency and have a better chance of solving issues quickly.  Be aware of the boat you are on, maybe even ask the driver to explain how running the boat works especially if it is only you and one other person aboard.  You do not want to be stuck out on the water not even knowing where the radio is or how to steer.

Be aware of your surroundings

Most people tend to boat in the same spots year after year.  By knowing what the bottom is like you can know where to anchor and where your boat may run aground.  Keep an eye out especially when drifting just in case the person in charge doesn’t notice you are drifting to too shallow water or into a busy channel.  Notice the weather and use good judgement when deciding to go out on the water when it is rough or a storm is coming.

Secure objects

Water can be very unpredictable at times.  Always make sure that coolers, gear and heavy items are securely tied down to the boat so they do not slide around and hit anyone.  Fishing poles should always be in holders and have a tie to the boat so they don’t hook anyone or fall overboard.  Diving equipment should always be bungeed down and extra gear should be placed under seats or in the cabin.

Sit back and relax

Choose a place to sit and stay seated while the boat is leaving/entering the dock.  Hold on to bars and walls, and if you cannot balance try sitting as low as possible.  Stay out of the way of lines and NEVER stand on ropes or chains.  Avoid dangling your feet under the bow bars because sometimes a large wave can come out of nowhere when heading out.  

Being out on the water is an amazing experience.  Boats allow us to enjoy water activities, cool off, and reach great fishing/dive spots.  Remember these few rules next time you are aboard and have a safe trip!

If interested in signing up for a boater safety course, follow the directions on this site in your state: http://www.aboutboatingsafely.com/exams.html?gclid=CNiTyoCxu9QCFcQfhgod2lIB6g#states

For more information on boating safety visit http://www.uscgboating.org/

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