5 most important precaution to take to avoid boating accidents

Boating accidents are quite common on large waterways and although they may not result in a lot of human fatalities, still, human life is important. Moreover, the damage to property after an accident can be difficult to assess and pay for. Accidents are best avoided and if one needs to be careful or take certain precautions for it, and then they must do it. Here are 5 important precautionary measures one must take to avoid boating accidents.

1. Monitoring natural conditions

The coast guard has attributed a lot of accidents due to weather conditions. While out on a boat monitor what the weather is going to be like and the water conditions. Water conditions include waterway traffic, congestion, dam problems and hazardous waters. All of these can lead to scary situations. Weather situations like thunderstorms can change clear waters into dangerous territory. Fast approaching, dark clouds are a sure sign and you must try to get back to the shore. Also, if you monitor weather conditions, you can dress appropriately for the day too.

2. Maintenance and safety equipment

A boat, like other vessels, must be maintained properly. Maintenance is about checking if the engine is in good shape, there is no oil leakage or if the propellers are strongly attached or not. Anything amiss in these things can lead to horrific accidents and could mean a loss of life apart from property. Equipment and gear like flotation devices, jackets, emergency supplies and a first-aid kit are necessary to keep the occupants or passengers safe to an extent. Fire extinguisher, boat lights, anchor and ropes like amarine anchor rope, should be aboard every vessel. A lot of boating accidents are caused by drowning and it can be averted by life jackets onboard.

3. Don’t drink

Drinking and driving are harmful when you drive and the same applies to a boat as well. Waterways have traffic, in the form of other vessels and it is best if you keep your eyes on the surroundings. Alcohol dulls the senses and increases reaction time. It can also cause dehydration, which can be exacerbated by being the sun. It can cause a loss of balance and can cause a person going overboard. You need to be vigilant when you are on waterways and moving so that you can avoid any potential accident.

4. Traffic guidelines

Follow all navigation and boating rules, just like you would do on a road. Load passengers and gear carefully – meaning make sure there is no overloading. Many accidents have occurred due to overloading and it could lead to drowning as well. Ensure that boat’s weight is distributed evenly. If you have fishing rods, have them in place on boat rod holders. Be aware that when you are on a waterway, larger vessels have the right of way. Stay right when approaching an oncoming boat and when crossing, yield to the boat on the right.

5. Avoid speeding

Don’t speed on open water. Many youngsters, may feel the need for thrill when out on open water. But the truth is, even in open water, there are vessels around and one must be very cautious about it. Over speeding is one of the top contributors of accidents Follow regulations and obey speed limits. Don’t go faster than what your boat can handle.