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Be Smart and Safe on the Water

By: Celeste Izon

Humans are land mammals, but we sure love our time in the water. People will go to great lengths to travel to cool northern lakes in the summer, and hot southern beaches in winter. A vacation just isn't the same without spending time in the water.

Boating provides fun and exhilarating sport, and it can be a relaxing hobby. Whether you're speeding along with the surf slapping wildly at the helm, or floating lazily on an inflatable raft, the water provides a beautiful and fascinating place to set yourself free. Water can be fun, and relaxing, but it also commands your utmost respect. Water sports can be extremely dangerous, and practicing boat safety is paramount.

Floatation Devices

Every wise boater prepares for the unexpected. A quick turn to the weather can bring on choppy conditions, high waves and hard rains. Even the most experienced boaters can find the adventures cut short when the weather causes capsize or collision. No one is invincible, particularly where nature is concerned. Everyone who is present on a boat, including the strongest swimmers, must wear a floatation device. Small and young children are at the biggest risk of drowning or injury. Wearing a floatation device isn't only smart, but it's the law in many places. Some states and provinces have regulations in place that require everyone on board to wear a floatation device.

Set a Course for Safety

Whether you're a nautical novice or an experience boater, it's a good idea to take a boating safety course. Free courses are available in many areas, and lessons can be completed in just a day or two. Sign yourself up, and your entire family. No child is too young to appreciate the dangers of the water, and learn how to stay safe. Check online if you have trouble finding a boating course. The Internet can be the best way to find information on available programs.

Keep Booze off the Boat

You need a clear head and swift reflexes to operate any type of water craft. The use of alcohol or drugs impairs your judgment and slows your ability to react. Prescription drugs can also take a dangerous toll on your ability to boat safely. Drinking and boating is illegal in most areas, and the same laws that apply to DUI drivers on the road will be imposed on DUI boaters. You can lose your craft or even your life, so don't take your chances.

Be Surf Smart

Boat safety is based on sensibility. Know your limits, and make sure you're able to make smart, split-second decisions. Know what to do if another boat suddenly veers toward you, or if your buddy bails off of his water skis and slips from your line of sight. When you're on the water, you may be called upon to make sound judgment calls. Understand your options in any given situation, and know how to take the best ones.

Be Respectful

Respect on the water is just as important as respect on the highway. Be aware of other boaters and respect their rights to share the water. Other boaters need to be able to see you in the blinding sun of daytime and the deep dark night. Keep within the water speed limit. Follow the rules of the waterway. Respect your passengers and your own safety, as well. No one is impressed when you show off and take risks.

Boat Maintenance

A poorly maintained boat is an accident waiting to happen. Check your craft often to ensure that all components are in safe working order and adhere to boat safety requirements. You keep a maintenance record for your car, and should do the same for your craft. Your boat and motor should be regularly maintained, and you must know how to perform emergency repairs if you have an accident or breakdown on the water.

Boating can mean anything from a fun kayaking trip, to an exhilarating afternoon of extreme water skiing, to a relaxing afternoon of fishing. However you choose to spend your time on the water, just remember to make boat safety your first priority.

Article Source: http://www.simplepetcare.com/pet-articles

Columnist Celeste Izon writes for several Internet magazines, on sports recreation and creative recreation subjects.
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