Summer is meant for fun times in and on the water. If you’re gearing up to take family and friends out on a watercraft when the weather warms, keep safety at the top of your mind. In addition to having adequate boat insurance, prepare the vessel and your loved ones by reviewing the following tips and protocols.

How to Ensure Safe Boating Adventures This Summer

1. Check Your Insurance Before Hitting the Water

Ensure your boat insurance policy is active during the time you plan to use it. Contact your agent to review your coverage prior to hitting the water. At minimum, your policy should include a liability component, which covers damages to the other person’s property, as well as their medical payments. There are additional options you can pursue, including collision covers, which pays for damage to your boat. 

2. Make Proper Use of Life Jackets

Every passenger, including the driver, should wear a life jacket while the boat is operating. This will ensure the safety of all passengers if an accident occurs or you’re participating in water sports like tubing. 

3. Avoid Alcohol & Stay Alert

It is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol, as it can impede your reactions and concentration. Much like driving, you must remain alert and sober while operating a watercraft. In addition, pay attention to hazard markers, such as buoys and signs for restricted or rocky areas. Finally, keep an eye out for flags that signal a water skier is nearby. 

Following safety precautions will keep your family and vessel protected as best as possible, but accidents can still happen. To ensure you have sufficient boat insurance coverage, speak with the team at Wilson Insurance Agency in Dalton, GA. Because they’re an independent company, they don’t try to sell a one-size-fits-all policy. The team has relationships with many providers and will match you with the best plan on the market at a rate that fits within your budget. Call their qualified agents today at (706) 278-0549 to request a boat insurance quote, or visit their website for more information.