Whether you’re a professional or leisure boater, for leisure, knowing how to handle your watercraft to avoid a collision is essential. Powerhouse Marine has provided the boating community in La Crosse, WI, and the surrounding areas with expert boat maintenance services and quality boats for sale, as well as brand name boat accessories and boat products. Their professionals have tips on what you can do to prevent collisions and serious accidents.

Knowing how to properly handle your boat in an emergency situation can drastically affect the outcome. The boating experts at Powerhouse Marine suggest choosing a day when the waters are calm to practice your boating skills. Find some open space where you can practice your turns, stops, and going in reverse. Try these drills at different speeds and take note of your turning radius, how long it takes for the boat to stop, and how well you can maneuver your boat.

The more you practice, the better idea you will have of how much control you have over your craft. Once you’re comfortable with handling your boat, try these same drills in different circumstances, such as windy days, rougher waters, or with various amounts of weight in your boat. Powerhouse Marine advises running these drills at least once a year to keep your boating skills honed.

Always ensure the total weight of the passengers and the equipment—including personal gear and boat accessories—is within the limits that your boat can carry. Food, drink, and fuel should also be taken into account when determining the weight aboard your boat. Your ability to safely handle your watercraft is affected by its weight, so don’t load your boat over its recommended capacity.

Regular practice drills and being aware of your boat’s weight capacity are great techniques to help prevent boat collisions. Proper boat maintenance also ensures that your vehicle is in top condition and handles correctly. Call Powerhouse Marine at (608) 784-9580 when your boat needs servicing or visit their website when you need boat products and accessories.