When you go boating, it is important to secure your
cargo and make sure that any loose object or gear is tied down or stowed
away. However, how do you protect your most important cargo – your
family members, friends and pets? The Sea Tow Foundation has provided three basic rules for keeping everyone safe for an enjoyable day on the water.
Rule 1: Life jackets for everyone – The
new life jacket designs are better and more comfortable than ever before
and also include fun colors and characters for the kids. Adults also
have the option of wearing an inflatable life jacket that is less bulky.
Life jacket manufacturers even make life jackets for our four-legged
friends so make sure they are wearing one, too.
Rule 2: Take your seats – While the boat is in
motion, everyone should be seated. Pets should be taught to sit or lie
down on the floor of the boat for their safety. No one should be sitting
on the bow or gunwales while the boat is in motion because they could
easily fall off and be injured. Also, never put a baby in a car seat in a
boat because the seats do not float and there is nothing to secure it
to prevent it from being tossed around if the boat hits a wake.
Rule 3: Take a boating safety course – You wouldn’t
think of putting your kids into the car of an unlicensed driver so take
the time to become an educated boat operator and get your boating safety
certificate. Many classes are family-friendly, so you can even bring
your kids and let them get their certificates as well. An educated
boater is a safer boater.