SAFETY
Boating safety is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience when you are on the water. Being prepared, staying alert, and making responsible choices, reduce risks and allow you to focus on having a great experience.
US COAST GUARD
Utilize the clickable link below for the US Coast Guard for official boating, safety information, regulations, and education resources to help ensure a safe and compliant trip.
Using a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) means wearing it properly for water safety, as it's crucial for staying afloat if you fall in, with the key steps being choosing a U.S. Coast Guard-approved fit, securing all straps snugly, and testing it in shallow water to ensure it keeps your chin above water. Always wear one when near or on the water, as accidents happen fast, even in calm conditions or if you're a strong swimmer, and ensure it's in good condition, not altered, and accessible for everyone on board.
The following are examples of Personal Flotation Devices. Please utilize the clickable link for extensive information on the description and use of each individual device.
PROPELLAR STRIKES
MINIMIZE PROPELLAR STRIKE POTENTIAL
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Check for people: Before starting your engine, ensure no one is boarding or disembarking or near the propeller.
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Engine in neutral: Never start the engine with it in gear.
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Proper seating: Make sure all passengers are seated properly before moving, no sitting on gunwales,, setbacks, or the bow.
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Assign a spotter: Have a designated adult watch children and the water for anyone who falls overboard.
MAN OVERBOARD
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Turn off the engine: Immediately turn off the engine when a person falls in.
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Approach carefully: Turn the boat's bow toward the person to keep the propeller away, and take the engine out of gear at least a boat length away.
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Avoid reverse: Never use reverse: Never use reverse to pick someone up: go around again.
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Throw a line: Once stopped, throw a line or flotation device to the person
SAFETY EQUIPMENT CHECKLIST
Having proper safety equipment onboard helps protect everyone onboard and ensures you're prepared for emergencies on the water. The following items are required by the US Coast Guard on your vessel. Please use the clickable link for an extensive outline of these Federal Requirements, along with a detailed outline of Rules and Regulations on the water.