You bought a boat because boating is a lot of fun and is a great way to relax and escape the worries of everyday life. But, even on a boat, problems can occur, from a mechanical issue to someone falling overboard. If you’re unprepared, little problems can quickly become big problems on a boat.
You may be taking your boat out of the water for the season in preparation for its winterization to-do list, and it might be wise to add this to a list of safety gear you’ll need before leaving port again for the open waters.
PFDs. Your boat should have enough life vests for everyone onboard. Also, any vessel over 16 feet is required to have throwable floatation devices. - First Aid kit. Have a well-stocked first-aid kit with bandages, antibiotic cream, aspirin and more.
- Tools. An onboard tool box should have basic tools such as a hammer, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, duct tape and scissors or shears.
- Fire extinguisher. Every boat should have at least one (easily-accessible) fire extinguisher onboard, preferably more.
- Lights. Waterproof flashlights and/or headlamps are as important for looking in tight, dark quarters as they are for seeing at night.
- Communication devices. Always have a VHF radio and a cell phone.
- Distress signals. Flares and day signals should be easily accessible.
- Extra batteries. Batteries have a way of dying at the worst time. Carry plenty of spares and have different sizes available.
- Spare parts. Carry equipment spares onboard such as light bulbs, fuses, a fuel filter, water pump and more.
- Tow line. A sturdy line will make it easier to get a tow if you need one.
- Jumper cables. Have a set of cables available for if your battery dies.
- A bailer. If you get even a small leak, you’ll want something onboard that you can bail water with.
- Life raft: For added safety on longer trips out at sea, you should consider carrying a life raft in the event of an emergency where you would need to ditch your boat.
- Sound-producing device. Every boat should have a horn that can produce a four-second blast that can be heard a half-mile away.
- Spare food and water. Make sure you have access to food and drinking water in case you get stranded. Carry a small stash onboard for emergencies.
Being prepared is the key to a safe, relaxing and enjoyable experience on the water.
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