Boating Safety

Boating Safety: From GovGab:  "As I mentioned in my blog on Summer Swimming Safety (one of my favorites, because it has it all - drama and a floating, neon-green, baloney sandwich with cheese doodles), I overcame a fear of swimming/water. I eventually became a scuba diver and with that came a lot of time spent on boats.


On one occasion, I was on a “liveaboard” and we dove the Yongala Wreck. We continued sailing far off the coast of Australia, in the Coral Sea. Being that far out and pretty much the only boat around for a great distance is cool, because you know you are diving in some isolated and pristine locations, but it is a little scary. In the back of your mind you pray that nothing goes wrong. You hope that the boat has been well maintained, the crew really knows what they are doing, and that everyone will follow safety protocols, because help is hundreds of miles away.
Any time people are out on the water, safety should be a number one concern. For many people, Memorial Day Weekend marks the beginning of summer and
all around the country people will be heading for the water, which is why this Saturday marks the beginning of (May 22-28). National Safe Boating Week.


Some basic guidelines can make boating a more enjoyable and safer experience. Before you get on the water:

• Complete an online boating safety course. The U.S. Coast Guard's Boating Safety Resource Center offers a page with links to boating safety courses that may be helpful.
• Properly prepare your vessel for the water and make sure it is well equipped. Perform a vessel safety check.
• File a float plan to tell others where you will be boating.

While on the water:

• Make sure that life jackets are within reach. Children and people who are considered weaker swimmers should wear their life jackets. Read some stories where wearing a life jacket saved a life!
• Be aware of your surroundings, other boaters, and your speed. Keep an eye out for other boaters in distress, and be willing to help, if it is needed.
• Avoid alcohol while boating. It can lower your awareness and your ability to respond to a situation.
  

I hope you all have a great time on the water this summer, and don't forget the sunscreen!"