Safety Procedures to Keep In Mind

Some of the best vacations or relaxing weekends can be had on a boat. Accidents do happen, however, and when they do it is best to be prepared. Most of the items on this list are quick and easy to check every time your vessel hits the water, and some of these safety steps should be kept in mind for certain situations no matter if you have guests on board or not. Employ these safety measures before, during, and after you sail

Before Departure

Check Weather Conditions
You most likely have already done this while planning a water-bound holiday, but make sure you double check once again before departing. Weather conditions can change in an instant, and you do not want to find yourself in the middle of a storm while trying to enjoy some relaxation time.

Check for Required Safety.
The Coast Guard requires anyone sailing to have certain safety items on board. These items should be accounted for every time you set sail, and they can be kept on board to be stored when your vessel is not on the water. The list of items the Coast Guard requires is:

· Life jackets
· Throwable flotation device
· Horn or sound-producing device
· Fire extinguishers
· Flares or other visual distress signals
· Operational navigation lights

Perform Engine Checks. Ensure that your engine is working properly before you take off. This preventative maintenance takes some time before every excursion, but it is nothing compared to what you will go through if you experience engine troubles on the water.· Check lubricating oil

· Check fuel level
· Check the function of buzzers on engine panel
· Verify cooling water flow
· Check for oil pressure
· Attach kill switch lanyard if applicable

Implement a Float Plan. Have a point of contact on shore who knows when you are setting sail, where you are going, and when you plan to arrive/return. This person should be contacted with updates if problems arise and your plan changes.
On the Water.Drink Responsibly. Accidents happen at any time, but they are more likely to happen when inhibitions are lowered. Have fun, but remember that you are still on the water and limit your drinking to an appropriate level.

Keep an Eye on the Weather. Though you should have checked the weather beforehand, you should still keep an eye out for weather which looks concerning. Use your best judgement and take shelter at the nearest harbor or marina if you do not think you should keep sailing.
Know Where the Nearest Harbor Is. If you do run into a problem while on the water, you should know where the safest harbor is. Do not rely on searching for a harbor you do not know the exact location of when you need help or safety.
At the Dock.

Moor Boat Securely. Be sure the water craft is secured at the bow, stern, spring lines, and fenders. Also make sure the lines are protected from chafe. Connect Shore Power Cable. Double check that the battery charger is connected and switched on. Check that the power cable is protected from chafe. Ensure that the inverter is turned off if it needs to be. Close Float Plan. Let your contact know that you have arrived or returned to your destination safely.

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