The Garage Plan Shop Blog

Now that you are an experienced boater, you will most likely enjoy sharing that enthusiasm with your family or friends, that is why you need to get affordable marine supply from MerrittSupply.com. And if you are planning to buy a new boat for your family, then you may consider consulting a trusted boat dealer for available units that will suit your budget and needs.

Whether taking along children or pets, below are some boating safety tips from boat dealers to protect you and your loved ones, including your furry friends. If you’re thinking of a boat rental for one of your outdoor trips, with this you will know what features to look for.

• Provide Shade – Both animals and little ones will need refuge from the sun. If your boat has a cabin you’re set. If not, you will have to provide some shade for them. Try a small pop-up tent or umbrella.
• Protect Feet – The surfaces of boats can get very hot in the sun. Dogs absorb that heat through the pads on their feet. Cool down the surface before letting your pet on board or provide something for him to walk on like a piece of carpet. Children can also be more sensitive to that heat than adults, so don’t forget some comfy shoes for them.
• Drinking Water – Of course you will want to keep plenty of fresh water available for all of your guests, but don’t forget to provide it for the pets too. The motion of the boat may make it difficult to keep a water bowl full, so check it often.
• Potty – Before you board, walk your dog so he can relieve himself. Depending on the amenities of your boat, it may be a good idea to get everyone relief before taking off.
• Short Trips – To get both children and pets used to the movement of the boat, make the first few trips short or make frequent stops at shore for short rests.
• Life Jackets – Not all dogs can swim and some dogs tire easily, so you may want to provide them with a life jacket. Let them get used to it by taking them for a test run in the water before boarding the boat. To be effective, life jackets need to fit correctly. They should fit snugly and for children, have a crotch strap and also a collar to keep them face up in the water. Choose bright colors for visibility. You may want to attach a whistle and instruct them on sounding it in emergency situations.
• Learn to Swim – Knowing how to swim is important for water safety, but it is not a substitute for wearing life jackets in the boat. Teach your children that swimming in open water is different than in a pool. There are underwater hazards and there can be undertows even in still water. No diving, as you cannot be sure of the depth. Most recreational areas have designated areas for swimming for safety purposes.
• Rules – Specify the rules like no running and keeping hands and feet in the boat before embarking. Older children can benefit from a boating safety course.
• First Aid – For peace of mind in protecting your family, take a first aid course that includes CPR training, learn more about cpr ottawa training with c2c. Don’t forget that the effects of hypothermia can occur more quickly for the young ones.
• Carbon Monoxide Alarm – Just like in your home, this can be a life saver on a motorized vessel.
• Alcohol – Coping with the pets and kids in the enclosed environment of a boat all day may drive you to drink, but be smart and wait until you are on dry ground.

Tags: Boating, boating safety, boating safety tips, family boating, safety tips

With boating season quickly approaching, even the most experienced boater needs to keep safety in mind before hitting the water. So, before you head out to your favorite river, lake, bay, etc., review the eight boating safety tips below:

1. Be Weather-wise – Always check the forecast before departure to make sure conditions will be safe for you to be on the water. If you notice sudden changes in the wind or clouds or dropping temperatures while on the water, head back to shore.

2. Check and Double Check – Make a checklist to follow before every trip. Include items like checking fuel lines for leaks and hoses for connections. Make sure the battery is charged and the fuel tank is filled properly. Check that all safety devices like a first aid kit, drinking water, life jackets, and fire extinguisher are present and accounted for on your boat.

3. File a Float Plan – Write down your intended departure and return times, your intended route, a description of your vessel and its registration number, and the names and contact numbers of all of your passengers. Leave this information with a friend or family member or the local marina in case of an emergency.

4. Designate a Second in Command – Make sure at least one other person on board is familiar with the operation of the watercraft, location of the safety devices, and boating safety rules.

5.  Know the Rules – Every state has its own set of rules for boating safety and certification.  Don’t limit yourself to them. Take a boating safety course. Seventy percent of boating accidents are due to operator error.

6.  Learn to Swim – Of course you need to have proper life jackets for all your passengers, and they should be worn at all times when on the water. Eighty percent of fatalities on the water can be prevented by wearing life jackets. Being a good swimmer will make you more comfortable in the water and increase your odds for survival.

7.  Vessel Check – Consider having your boat professionally checked. The US Coast Guard Auxiliary provides a free safety check for your boat and provides safety tips and recommendations.

8.  No BUI – Boating under the influence is dangerous for both the skipper and the passengers. Not only does consuming alcohol accelerate impairment, but most people have less experience on water and that increases the danger of accidents.

When you head out on the water with family and friends this boating season, remember to follow safe boating practices

Tags: Boating, boating safety, boating safety tips, safety tips