It’s hard to believe after the long, cold winter, but summer is here! Whether you own a boat or plan to rent a jet ski for a day on the lake, now's the perfect time to enjoy some fun in the sun. Not only is boating a great way to reduce stress and enjoy nature, it’s also a great way to create lasting memories with family and friends.
However, a fun day on the water can quickly take a tragic turn when simple safety measures are overlooked. Every year, the U.S. Coast Guard responds to many incidents resulting from operator inexperience, inattention, recklessness, and excessive speed. Whether you're fishing, paddling, or towing a skier, it’s important to put safety first. Here are some tips to help keep yourself and others safe.
If you're new to boating or have kids interested in driving, consider enrolling yourself or them in a boating safety course. These classes teach boat handling and navigation, safety procedures, and weather pattern recognition. Courses are available online or through your state’s Department of Natural Resources.
A life jacket is like a seatbelt; it should be worn at all times. Double-check that there's one for every person on board and ensure children always wear them. Big waves or high winds could toss you overboard causing panic and possibly a fight for your life. Life jackets keep you afloat and your face out of the water if you're unconscious, significantly increasing your chance of survival.
Many places rent jet skis or boats, and if you have a West Bend homeowners policy, you're in luck. It provides automatic physical damage and liability coverage for rented watercraft. Coverage limits match your policy’s personal liability limit; for example, $100,000 in liability means $100,000 in damage coverage. If you don’t have a West Bend policy, check with your agent to understand what coverage you have before hitting the water. If you own your own boat, it’s also a good idea to discuss coverage with your agent to ensure your boat is adequately protected.
No matter what your vessel's size, bring these essential items:
Tailor your safety kit to your specific water activities and location.
It's risky for one adult to manage a boat full of kids. Not only is it a big responsibility, but if the primary driver is injured or unable to navigate, it’s vital that there’s another adult who’s also familiar with the boat and can get everyone back to land safely.
Familiarize yourself with state laws, U.S. Coast Guard requirements, and your vessel’s owner’s manual. Also, communicate rules to your passengers so everyone knows what to expect and how to respond in an emergency.
If you’re heading out on a large body of water, leave a float plan with a friend or neighbor. It should include:
This helps authorities respond quickly if something goes wrong. Here’s a sample float plan you can use.
The weather can change rapidly. Check the forecast before departure and consider using weather alert apps. If you know phone service is an issue, be sure to check the local forecast before going out on the water. Storms with heavy rain, lightning, or high winds can be catastrophic to those on the water. If storms are in the forecast, you may need to stay on land.
If you're pulling a skier or tuber, always have a spotter watch and communicate using hand signals. This ensures safer rides and quick responses if issues arise.
Reckless behavior endangers everyone. Don’t push your boat or riders beyond their limits. Be mindful of boat traffic, follow safe distances, and operate your boat responsibly.
Summer boating can be an incredible experience when done safely and responsibly. By preparing properly and understanding both the safety rules and your insurance coverage, you can make the most of every moment on the water.
This article is intended for general educational and illustrative purposes only and should not be construed to communicate legal or professional advice. Further, this article is not an offer to sell insurance. Please consult with your licensed insurance agent for specific coverage details and your insurance eligibility. All policies are subject to the terms, conditions, limitations, definitions, and exclusions contained therein.