When you're out on the water, the last thing you want to worry about is what to do in an emergency. Whether you're facing sudden weather changes, mechanical failures, or medical emergencies, having a plan and the right equipment can make all the difference.
Do you know what to do if your boat is sinking, catches on fire, or stops running? The following are tips to help keep everyone onboard safe if something goes wrong on the water.
Keep your boat maintained
Equipment malfunctions can cause a boat to break down. As a boat owner, it's important to stay on top of maintenance to help prevent any unforeseen system issues.
Inspecting the propeller before launching your boat, changing the oil every 100 hours of operation, and keeping the battery clean, dry, and charged are good practices for boat maintenance.
Having a tool kit on board with basic tools for emergency repairs, spare parts, and duct tape could help get you back to shore and off the water.
Stay hydrated and have food on hand
It's essential to have enough food and water to hold you over in case of an emergency. You could be stuck floating for a while before help arrives. Dehydration could cause heat exhaustion, which could cause extreme distress to your body.
Granola bars and trail mix are good items to have on hand because they're healthier and won't go bad when stored for long periods.
Safety equipment
Before you head out on the water, be sure to have the required safety equipment as well as other items to help in times of need.
- Functioning navigational lights
- Personal floatation devices for each passenger, including infants
- Floatation device that can be thrown into the water
- Fire extinguisher, fully charged
- Sound emitting device whistle or horn
- Map of the water body you're on
- Communication device, mobile phone, or VHF radio
- Paddle
- Flares
- Rope, for towing
Prepare an emergency kit
Every boat should have a properly stocked emergency kit. Here's a list of essential items to include in your first aid kit:
- Bandages
- Safety pins
- Disposable sterile gloves
- Tweezers
- Necessary ointments
- Antiseptic wipes
- Adhesive tape
Know weather conditions
Weather can make or break your boating plans. Cell phone radar apps can help you know what weather is coming and give you time to get off the water in advance of its arrival.
Getting caught on the water in a heavy thunderstorm could cause your boat to take on water and potentially sink. Being on a sinking boat in 80-degree water temperature is very different from being on a sinking boat in 40-degree water temperature.
If you have to enter the water from a sinking boat, do the following:
- Put your life jacket on if you 'aren't already wearing it.
- Send a distress signal, if possible, using a VHF radio or protected cell phone.
- Prepare for cold water immersion. Cold water can lead to cold shock and impair your ability to function.
- Minimize water exposure; enter the water slowly. Once in the water, cross your arms over your chest and bring your knees to your chest to reduce heat loss. Huddle with others if possible.
- Stay calm and conserve energy, avoid unnecessary movement, keep your head out of the water, and wait for rescue.
Stay prepared
By planning and ensuring that your boat is equipped with essential safety gear, you're not just protecting your vessel, but also the lives of everyone on board.
As a boat owner, it's important to ensure your boat is equipped with essential items so that you're prepared for unforeseen circumstances that may occur while out on the water.
Don't wait for an emergency to remind you of the importance of being prepared; start today and ensure smooth sailing no matter what comes your way.