Important Boat Safety Tips to Remember.

No matter how many times you go out on a boat, it simply never gets tiring. There is such a variety of fun things to do – from birthday celebrations and water skiing to fishing excursions and relaxation – that many people would probably live on a boat if given half the chance. Regardless of what you choose to do while out on the water, boat safety must always be a top priority. As the owner of a boat, you have responsibilities to every person who gets on board. You must take necessary precautions and adhere to a certain set of rules to ensure that no one is at risk. To get started, here are a few boat safety tips that you should keep in mind.

Check the Weather Beforehand

Inclement weather is perhaps the biggest danger to any boating excursion. During certain seasons, this usually isn’t too much of a concern, but you can never be too careful. It’s much better to cancel a planned celebration that may put your friends and family members at risk.

Schedule Routine Maintenance

Like all machines, boats can experience exterior and interior damage from either simple wear and tear, accidents, or basic malfunctions of the equipment. You should always schedule routine maintenance on a regular basis as notated in the boat’s manual. Plus, if it’s been a while since you’ve taken the boat out on the water, that is a great time to have it checked out.

Avoid Overloading Your Boat

Many boaters seem to forget that each boat has its own weight limit. If you exceed that limit, you put both the boat and the people on it at risk. The weight limit for your boat will be listed in its manual. Be sure to follow it to prevent either capsizing or swamping. Also, remember that your weight calculation must include everyone on board plus any equipment.

Check the Number of Life Jackets

Most excursions out on the water go off without a hitch, but you definitely want to be prepared in case something goes wrong. You can help ensure everyone’s safety in an emergency by having a life jacket for each and every person. And keep in mind that there’s no reason for a captain to go down with his or her ship.

Install a Shock-Absorbing Boat Seat Pedestal

In all types of weather conditions, the operator of a boat always gets jostled around by the waves, causing an uncomfortable feeling that can lead to aches and pains, and even serious injuries over time. This can be avoided by installing a boat seat pedestal that absorbs the movements of the boat as it makes its way along the surface of the water.

Leave Alcohol for Post-Boating

The dangers of drinking alcohol while operating a boat are the same as when you’re driving a car. It doesn’t take too much alcohol to compromise your reaction time and put yourself and others in danger. Your guests should also avoid alcohol as much as possible because if an emergency occurs, they need to have their wits about them.

Always Stay Aware of the Propeller

A boat’s propeller is extremely dangerous, which is exactly why stories, where people have come into contact with one. Before you turn on the boat, you must make absolutely sure that every person in your party is accounted for. The last thing you want is for someone to be injured because they are unaware of how close they are to the propeller.

Contact Seaspension® for More Boat Safety Tips

Seaspension® is the premier developer of shock-absorbing boat seat pedestals that provide a smoother ride and prevent injuries. Together with Parker Boat accessories, Seaspension® products will help you have a safe, fun time with your family and friends on the water. For more boat safety tips or to learn the advantages of using our products, give us a call at (727) 216-9639  or shop our products online.