Any successful boating trip needs to have safety guidelines followed. If you don’t follow the proper safety precautions, your boating experience could end up being a disaster. Here are some tips for safely using your boats in Milwaukee so that you’re boating excursion is not ruined by an unfortunate incident.
Bring a First Aid Kit
Nobody wants to have an accident when they are out on their boat. But it does happen. That’s why it’s important to be prepared. The most basic thing you can do to be prepared for an accident is by having a first aid kit on board. It should be stocked with clean gauze, bandages, rubbing alcohol, aspirin and other things you may need in the event of a minor emergency.
Personal Floatation Devices
Bringing personal flotation devices, or PFDs, with you on your boat isn’t only essential for safety, it’s also required by the United States Coast Guard. These are generally nothing more than life jackets and life vests, but they are a necessary item for safety. According to regulations, you must have at least one PFD per passenger on the boat. For some types of boats in Milwaukee, you may also be required to have a ring or cushion that can be used to throw to a person who has fallen into the water.
Signaling Items
It’s easy to lose track of where you are once you get out into the middle of a large body of water. That’s why you should have signaling gear with you on board. Signaling items can include a variety of devices, including flares, a distress flag, horns and whistles and even a fog system. These are designed to help your boat stand out for a couple of reasons. For one, if you get lost, the devices can signal rescue crews that have been sent out to find you. They can also be used to alert other boats in the area so they can see you more clearly and steer away from you rather than running into you.
Fire Extinguisher
It might seem odd that you would need a fire extinguisher when you’re out in the middle of the water. But an extinguisher is the most efficient method for putting out a fire. Keep the extinguisher in a place that is easy to access so you can get to it at a moment’s notice. A fire can come from anywhere, including an overheated engine or another unexpected source.
By following these safety tips, you can have a fun and successful boating trip each time. If you’re looking for some safety accessories, come to American Marine & Motorsports to find everything you need for your next excursion.
