Labor Day Boating Tips

Labor Day is coming soon and boaters are likely to set sail for pleasure, fishing or partying. Here are a few personal tips for boaters this Labor Day holiday that may help you and the passengers on the boat have a great time on the water.

Boat Safety For Children

#1 - Always keep an eye on your children

No matter what safety measures you take, make sure you always keep an eye on your children. It only takes one second for your child to fall out or get injured. Making sure they never leave your sight should be your number one priority. Do not let them roam around the boat unattended. If they do fall out with out your knowledge, you may be too late to find them.

#2 - Talk to your children before you get on the boat

Before you get on your boat, make sure you explain to your children the dangers of boating. Tell them why it is important to keep their life jackets on, and staying away from the edge of the boat. Let them know that they should stay by you at all times, because of such dangers. Once they understand the dangers, no matter what age, they will think twice about what they do on the boat.

Boat Safety For Adults

#3 - Proper life jackets, and emergency kits

There are life jackets of all sizing on the market. Make sure you purchase and use one that is the appropriate size for each child and adult. Make sure to bring an emergency kit that provides an injury kit and flares if something may happen. These may save you life.

#4 - Alcoholic beverages

Although it is celebration time, do not consume alcohol before you get on a boat or while on a boat. It is dangerous, especially when you loose your sense of danger and your balance. When someone is in the direct sun and has consumed alcohol, they can get dehydrated very quickly, and could possibly turn into something serious, even death. If you plan to swim right off the side of your boat, drowning is possible if you have been drinking. Speed is another problem with boat drivers who consume alcohol. Going to fast while drunk is the same as driving a car, you can lose you control very quickly.

#5 - Passengers on board

Always keep an eye on each passenger on board. Being preventative is the best policy. If you see someone on board who is doing things dangerously or carelessly that may affect other passengers, make sure you bring it to the attention of the boat owner. If you feel that something is wrong with a passenger, you might want to suggest going back to shore. Although you may not be doing anything wrong, other people can affect the dangers and safety of others. Always pay attention to your surroundings.