1. Watch out for Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Usually, carbon monoxide is dispersed in the air, so it is not a concern. However, the wind can carry your boat exhaust fumes back at you and your passengers. Additionally, hanging around the back of the boat when the engine is idling is another way to be overexposed. Be sure to avoid these scenarios!
Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Exposure
If you or a fellow passenger have any of these symptoms you might be suffering from carbon monoxide overexposure:
- Light headedness
- Headache
- Weakness
- Nausea
If someone is experiencing these symptoms, move them to open fresh air and turn off the boat engine. If they don’t feel better and/or others start to exhibit similar symptoms, get help. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
2. Beware of Boat Fires
Boat Fire Safety Tips
Fire Extinguisher Tips
- Keep it readily accessible
- Make sure you know how to use it correctly
What Should I Do if there is a Boat Fire?
Here are a few steps you should take if you experience a boat fire:
- Stop your engine
- Check everyone on board is wearing a life jacket
- Where possible, make sure your boat is downwind
- Use your fire extinguisher
If the extinguisher isn’t working, radio for help ASAP, then prepare to abandon ship.
3. Make a Float Plan
What is a Float Plan?
It’s simply a note stating:
- Where you’re boating
- How long you’ll be gone
- Your planned return time
- A contact number
Leave this information with a trusted contact, so they know where to find you in the event you’re missing (or at least someone thinks you’re missing). When you arrive safely back to shore, give your contact a call to let them know! It seems simple, but a float plan can help avoid confusion and stress. In the event of an actual emergency, search parties can find you more quickly too.
4. Pre-boating Checklist
Before you leave the dock, take a few minutes to double check the following:
- Are there enough life jackets for all passengers
- Is the gas tank full
- What’s the weather forecast say
- Do you have water and sunblock
- Is your radio working correctly in case you have an emergency
- Are your navigation lights and horn working correctly
- Do all passengers know where the first aid kit, fire extinguisher and emergency flares are kept
Taking a few extra minutes before you leave to complete this checklist ensures you’re better prepared for a day out on the lake or ocean.
These are just a few boat safety tips we hope help prepare you for a fun and safe boating season.
A boat is an important and enjoyable investment. Don’t forget to keep it safe with quality boat insurance. At Ianniello Agency, we can help you identify the appropriate coverage for your boat. Give us a call today to discuss your insurance needs.
About Ianniello Insurance Agency
Ianniello Insurance Agency is Northeast Ohio’s premier provider of auto insurance, life insurance, home insurance, agribusiness insurance, farm insurance, business insurance and health insurance. You can count on our personalized service to meet your needs. We take our time to ensure there are no gaps in your coverage. We proudly serve Coshocton, Holmes, and Tuscarawas Counties. Get in touch today for a quote and follow us on Facebook to stay in touch!
