Top Ten Tips about Boating Safety and other Safety Information

1. Check the boat, engine and equipment before leaving
2. Check the weather forecast and tides before leaving
3. Tell someone where you're going, and when you'll return
4. Guard against fire
5. Never overload the boat.
6. Take a proper lifejacket for each person on board; wear them
7. Have aboard: Anchor, bailer, spare fuel, torch, warm gear.
8. Know the: Collision Prevention Rule, Water Recreation Rule, local bylaws
9. Avoid alcohol when boating
10. Take two means of communication: VHF, Flares, EPIRB, cellular phone in a plastic bag

Remember:
As the captain of the boat, you are accountable for the safety of everyone on board. If you haven't followed your duty of care responsibilities, at best you'll get a big fine, at worst someone could die. This could sink your finances, ruin your future and leave you to salvage what's left of your life.

Those most likely to die in a boating accident on the water are:

• Married men between 25-49 years old;
• On a fishing trip or leisure cruise;
• In a fiberglass or aluminum open-motor boat such as a dinghy;
• In a vessel less than six meters long;
• Either cruising or drifting at the time of their fatal accident;
• Operating in calm or smooth sea conditions with light to moderate winds prevailing;
• In an overloaded and overpowered boat with inadequate stability or buoyancy;
• Consuming alcohol at the time of their fatal accident;
• Involved in a capsize or person overboard event;
• Not wearing a life jacket/Personal Flotation Device; and
• Operating on inland or enclosed waters.

Boating can be a fun time for you and your family but remember to boat safely and responsibly. Never launch your boat without checking the weather for an up to date forecast. Metservice offers up-to-date Marine Forecasts

IF IN DOUBT DON’T GO OUT !!