5 Tips for Boating Safely

Every summer, we get calls from customers after a fun weekend on the water takes a turn for the worse. Often, these accidents could have been prevented with a few simple precautions. So, here are our tips for boating safely:

Life Preservers Aren’t Just for Kids. It’s not enough to just have life jackets on board — you need to wear them! In an accident, people rarely have time to reach for a life jacket. This not just to children, but to adults: More people in their 30s die in boating accidents than any other age group. Today, you can even get vests for your water-loving dog!

Watch the Back of the Boat. Carbon monoxide kills in minutes. So tell your passengers where your exhaust pipes are located and turn off your engine when people are in the water, and don’t let passengers “ski” or “teak-surf” by holding on to the back of the boat. Both Washington and Oregon made teak-surfing illegal in the last few years, after several tragic deaths. Carbon monoxide detectors are standard on most new boats and can be installed on older boats for less than $100.

Don’t Mix Boating with Alcohol. More than 50 percent of drowning’s result from boating incidents involving alcohol. You don’t drink and drive, so don’t drink and boat.

Boats Need TLC Too. When you’re out on the water, make sure your gas tanks are vented and bilges are free of vapors, oil, waste and grease. Carry a charged fire extinguisher. Have your boat’s operating systems checked yearly by a certified marine technician. The Coast Guard Auxiliary and United States Power Squadrons also offer free vessel safety checks.

Experience Counts! The U.S. Coast Guard says that operator errors account for 70% of boating accidents. Make sure anyone who drives your boat is properly trained. You may even earn boat insurance discounts if you complete a safety course with the Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons.

Contact one of our experienced Minnesota boat insurance agents to learn more. Find an agency location or request boat insurance quotes to get free quotes from 30+ top insurance companies.