Safe Boating Checklist
There’s nothing like a day on the water. Whether it’s fishing, paddling, sailing, skiing, boarding or just relaxing everyone can have a great time, provided that some basic safe boating practices are in place.
Too often, what starts out as a fun adventure turns into a nightmarish experience or worse, a tragedy. In many cases some basic precautions could have averted theses situations.
This boating safety checklist will get you on the water, sufficiently prepared to make the most of what is never enough boating time.
Boating Safety Checklist:
Things To Do Before You Leave:
- Check local weather conditions and forecasts.
- Create and follow a float plan… and leave a copy on shore with a friend or family member.
- Be sure that your gas tank is full.
Things you should have on-board:
P.F.D.’s– Personal Flotation Devices (1 for each person)
- Throwable Flotation Device with rope.
- Fire Extinguisher
- Small Bucket for Bailing
- Oar or paddle
- Safety Flares
- Boat and Trailer Registration
- Boating Safety First Aid Kit
- Anchor with 200 ft of line
- Mooring Lines
- Flashlight
- Tool Kit
- Drain Plug (if required)
- Rain Gear
- Sun Glasses
- Sun Screen
- Portable potty
- Towels and Sponge (for spills)
- Binoculars. Learn more about Marine Binoculars here.
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Helpful Resources:
Boating After Dark? Follow These Safety Tips
U.S.C.G. Boating Safety Resource Center
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