Bonding with your loved ones during boat trips is time well spent. To ensure you have a fun and hassle-free vacation, put safety measures and equipment at the top of your to-do list. Gear up with sufficient boat supplies and familiarize yourself with safety standards and emergency procedures for boating. 

How to Keep Yourself Safe When Boating

1. Bring Emergency Supplies

Anything can happen abord the boat during your trip, including leaks or fires, so be prepared for such accidents. Your boat supplies should include flashlights, whistles, ropes, reflective objects, first aid kits, and fire extinguishers. 

2. Never Overload Your Boat

Overloaded boats are challenging to maneuver and have a high risk of overturning or sinking. So, take note of your watercraft's capacity restriction before inviting family or friends to join the trip.

3. Wear the Right Life Jacket

Watercraft owners are required by law to have U.S. Coast Guard-approved life vests for every person on board. When purchasing personal flotation devices, make sure these are appropriate to the wearers' height and weight. Type II life jackets not only help wearers stay afloat, but they also keep unconscious individuals face up.

4. Use Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Install carbon monoxide (CO) detectors in your boat as an added safety measure. CO is an odorless, colorless toxic gas that can come from exhaust fumes. It may circulate in improperly ventilated enclosures and trigger health issues and render people unconscious. If you suspect CO poisoning, seek medical attention immediately.

5. Observe Navigational Rules

Operating a boat requires the skill and knowledge of docking and anchoring procedures and boating laws. For a safer trip, review your state's boating regulations before venturing out.  And if you haven’t done so, look into a Safe Boating course.

When you need essential boat supplies for your trip, visit Harbortown Marine in Vermilion, OH. For nearly 26 years, this marine supply store has been offering quality boating supplies & equipment, parts, and accessories. They also provide reliable boat care services. Visit their website to view their products and manufacturers. You can also make an appointment to pick up supplies before they return to their 7-days schedule late-March by calling (440) 967-8072.