Boating Safety

You really can’t beat a beautiful afternoon on the water enjoying the sunshine in your fishing boat with family and friends. Relax and unwind as the sounds of nature surround you out on the water. If you’re more of a thrill seeker, you can partake in a number of exciting marine activities, like fishing, swimming, or various water sports. However you plan to spend your day on the boat, it’s essential that you follow some very important safety rules. 

Here at Yankee Boating Center, your safety is our priority. We’ve gathered some tips to get you started. For more information or to check out our Lund boats for sale, give us a call or stop by our dealership. We’re located in Lake George, New York near Haverstraw and Albany.

Plan Accordingly

Before you even consider loading your boat onto the trailer, you’ll need to take some time for planning. Start by examining your vessel before each excursion to check for any cracks or damage to the hull. You’ll also want to confirm all the mechanisms are functioning correctly. Next, prepare a checklist of all the items you’ll need to take with you, which includes all the vital safety equipment. 

You should inform someone of where you plan to go and how long you’ll be gone. If something goes wrong, this person will be able to inform authorities of your intended location. Additionally, you should designate someone on the boat to act as your assistant skipper. You’ll need to train them in the basic components of operating your fishing boat. If for any reason you’re unable to operate the vessel, they can safely take over.

Check The Forecast

Another important step in the planning process is to check the weather forecast for the day of your trip. You’ll want to check in advance and again right before you leave since the weather can change in an instant. Remember that sudden storms can appear out of nowhere, so it’s best to be sure there’s nothing on the horizon that could send you racing back to shore. This applies to both the more mundane thunderstorms with the risk of lightning strikes and the more serious hurricanes that can sweep through and wreak havoc miles inland.

Bring The Right Equipment

It’s time to go down your checklist and confirm that your fishing boat is properly equipped with everything you should have on hand in case of an emergency. For starters, each passenger will need to wear a lifejacket and be able to swim, or at least float. Your boat should also have a throwable life ring in case someone falls overboard. You’ll need to have a first aid kit, signal flares, an emergency radio, and a phone for backup. Each vessel should have a functioning fire extinguisher on board. Having these items won’t prevent emergencies from happening, but it will ensure you are prepared should they arise.

Use Common Sense

Last but not least, when you’re out on the boat, you’ll want to use common sense and follow best safety practices for yourself, your passengers, and others who might be in the water. You shouldn’t operate a boat if you have a serious health condition that impairs your judgment. The same goes for individuals who take prescription medications that can affect your reflexes. Be sure you speak with your doctor if you have any concerns. You want to be fully aware of how your medications might affect your ability to operate heavy machinery.

When you pass others in the water, give them a wide berth and steer to the right. Always be on alert for swimmers, waterskiers, and other people who might be in the water so you can give them ample space, too. When you load and unload at the dock, remember to exercise patience and give everyone enough room to deal with their own watercraft. You should steer clear of debris and shallow areas so you don’t run your fishing boat aground. If you experience a collision or other emergency, stop your engine, signal or call for help, and wait for it to arrive.

Now that you’re well-versed in boating safety, you’re ready to hit the water. When you’re in the market for a new craft, be sure to check out our impressive selection of Lund boats here at Yankee Boating Center! We’re located in Lake George, New York near Haverstraw and Albany.