How to Stay Safe on the Water

Before you take your boat out on the water, make sure you set yourself up for a successful and safe trip. While boating isn't thought of as a highly risky or dangerous activity, accidents can happen. You'll want to take proactive steps to reduce the risk of a situation and to ensure you can handle a situation should it come up. We've created the following guide to staying safe on your boat trip below. If you want more safety strategies or you want to explore boats for sale, visit Bill Howich RV and Marine. Our dealership is based in Campbell River, British Columbia. We also proudly serve those in Courtenay and Nanaimo, British Columbia.

1. Prepare Your Passengers

Your first step is ensuring your passengers are equipped for a safe voyage. Make sure everyone on board knows how to swim and has a well-fitting life jacket. If someone falls overboard, they need to be able to keep themselves afloat until help arrives or you can pull them in.

You'll also want to assign an assistant skipper. If you become unable to operate the boat, it's important that someone else is skilled and ready to step in. It never hurts to have multiple adults knowledgeable about how the boat works and how to steer it. 

Finally, have a point of contact on the shore. They should know where you will be going and what time you expect to return. If you end up stranded and unable to call for help, the person onshore will know you should have returned by now and can send help in your direction.

2. Pack the Safety Gear

You will want to bring a range of safety items on your boat. First, life jackets for every passenger. Children should always wear life vests, even when the boat is not in motion. Adults ideally should also always wear them as a way to set a good example for the kids.

Second, have fire extinguishers on board. The boat's engine poses a fire risk. If you have a grill for cooking onboard, this poses a fire risk too. You'll be glad you have the equipment to tackle a fire if one should arise.

Third, you will want an emergency preparedness kit. Make sure yours includes an emergency radio, flares, a GPS, emergency reflective blankets, and a first aid kit.

3. Check the Weather

Always look up the weather forecast before taking your boat on a voyage. Avoid heading out during thunderstorms, heavy surf, or high wind conditions. The weather will make it too chilly to properly enjoy a boat ride anyways, but more importantly, it can make for a dangerous time on the water. Better to wait for the weather to shift before embarking on your adventure.

4. Watch for Boats, People, and Debris

Odds are, your boat will not be the only one on the water. When you pass other watercraft, give them plenty of space and steer to the right. Keep your eyes peeled for swimmers and water sport enthusiasts in the water. Look out for large pieces of debris that can damage your boat. Stay alert and focused so you can enjoy a fun and safe boat ride.

We hope you found these tips helpful. If your boat needs parts replaced or a service appointment before your next voyage, visit the experts at Bill Howich RV and Marine. We can get your boat repaired and ready to go in no time. We also offer a range of boats for sale if you are looking to buy. Whatever you need, you can find with us. We are located in Campbell River, British Columbia, but also serve those in Courtenay and Nanaimo.