For those who love the outdoors, boating offers both fun and relaxation. Unfortunately, accidents happen, so you should be ready for anything.
Operating a boat unprepared can leave you sunk. Take a few steps to learn about potential dangers while on the water to keep yourself and others safe. These are the biggest hazards to watch out for while boating.
Low Water
The first thing you should do when putting your boat out is to ensure you know the depth. If the water isn’t deep enough, you could scrape your boat’s bottom or damage your outboard motor. Most boat owners use a trolling motor to get through low water without damaging their main one.
Also, most waterways that allow boating have buoys indicating that channels are safe for operating. However, you should pay close attention to the weather conditions since they can alter the water levels without notice.
Motor Malfunction
Even if you take all precautions, your motor could still break down. Getting to shore could require some effort, so you’ll want to ensure you have what you need to make it back. You may be able to call someone if you have a cellphone or radio, but be ready in case you don’t have a signal.
A motor breakdown can be a hassle, whether it’s due to mechanical failures or a dead battery. You can try to paddle or hail another boater for a tow. If you choose the latter, use these tips for towing a boat safely in water to prevent accidents.
Other Vessels
Getting into a collision on the water can be dangerous. Even with life jackets, people can get hurt or even drown. It could also leave your boat needing repairs, which can be expensive. You must understand the basic rules of operating a boat before setting out.
First and foremost, you should know to pass on the left, just like when driving a car. Ensure you can see and hear in all directions, especially at high speeds. Watching out for other vessels and taking it slow in congested areas will allow you to make better decisions and stay safe.
Manage Hazards To Enjoy Your Day
Those not prepared for the worst while boating will undoubtedly get their comeuppance. Learning about safe boat operation and staying vigilant is the best course of action.
Understanding the biggest hazards to watch out for while boating takes some effort, but doing so will keep you and your passengers safe from harm.
