It is a topic I talk about every year and for good reason: It’s boating season and that means it’s time to pay attention to some safety basics.
First there’s the big boating no-no: BUI, or boating under the influence. Why? Because between the sun and the salty air, boating operators are likely to become impaired more quickly than a driver, drink for drink. In fact, alcohol is a factor in about a third of all recreational boating fatalities.
It’s crazy to me that several states still don’t have mandatory boating instruction. The good news is that the U.S. Coast Guard site is a great resource for online and hands-on courses for operating personal watercraft.
Last, but not least, is the all-important life jacket. A personal floatation device is a must, and here’s why: Life jackets have saved lives when when wearer is thrown from the boat, is injured or unconscious, or is unable to swim because their clothes have become waterlogged.
Test out those life jackets at least once a year for wear and tear. And parents, an adult life jacket is NOT appropriate for children.
For great ways to get out on the water, check out our Cruise Travel section or the Water Sports archives.
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