If you recently purchased a new boat, the thought of escaping for a few hours can be enticing. However, with age and use, the boat may develop problems with the engine or the battery that cause it to cease running mid-way through your trip—giving you a little more time on the open water than you were expecting. Alternatively, you may run out of fuel or get run aground away from your starting point. To make sure that you get back to land with as little stress as possible, make use of the following best practices. 

How to Ensure Your Safety if Your Boat Stops Working

1. File a Float Plan

A float plan lets the harbor manager know where exactly you’re going and when you’ll return. This is crucial for rescuing stranded boaters, especially if you experience problems with your communications equipment. You should also inform friends and family about your plans so they can take necessary actions if you don’t return. 

2. Drop Your Anchor

Dropping your anchor prevents drifting. This way, when you tell rescuers your coordinates, you don’t have to worry about your boat straying from that spot, thereby making rescue efforts easier. 

3. Call for Help

As soon as it’s established that you can’t repair your boat yourself, reach out for help. First, contact the harbor manager you filed a float plan with. They may be able to send a boat to retrieve you. The Coast Guard may need to be contacted if conditions are hazardous or someone on your boat is ill or injured. You may even be able to flag down a passing boater, who can provide assistance directly or call for help if you’re unable. 

4. Have Extra Supplies On-Hand

Depending on how far out you are, it may take a while for another boat to reach you. Even if you only plan to be gone for a few hours, take enough food and water for everyone on board to have a day’s supply. You should also bring extra warm clothing and blankets in case your boat malfunctions near the evening when temperatures are likely to drop. 

Whether you’re in the market for a trustworthy new boat or you’re seeking reliable boat repair service for your current vessel, Premier Boating Center is here to help. They offer a wide selection of used and new boats from brands well known for their dependability. Their repair techs are also highly skilled and trained, so they can address and fix issues before they cause a breakdown. Stop by their Lincoln, NE, location or call (402) 464- 4791 with questions. You can also check out their inventory online.