Everyone loves an abundance of sunny days, pleasant weather and beautiful waterways. For water-loving souls — fishermen, skiers, wakeboarders and the like, it’s the perfect environment for outdoor fun.

Central to the experience are recreational boats. From tiny skiffs to speedboats, there are many ways to navigate the nation's lakes, rivers and oceans. Yet boating can present serious safety risks.

Each May, around the time of the country’s annual Safe Boating Week observance, the U.S. Coast Guard's Boating Safety Division releases statistics on recreational boating accidents¹ across all 50 states. Alas, those numbers only reflect accident reports filed by boat owners/operators. In truth, there may be many more accidents each year — many of which might be avoided if only the people driving and riding in or near boats were to exercise a bit more caution.

In hopes of helping you prepare for your next water adventure, we’ve pulled together five important tips.

1. Wear a life jacket (or personal flotation device) at all times

Each year, the U.S. Coast Guard's Boating Safety Division compiles statistics² on reported recreational boating accidents. These reports generally show that most boating fatality victims were not wearing a life jacket³ or other personal flotation device.

Per federal requirement, children (ages 13 and under) must wear a PFD on a moving boat, unless they are below deck or in an enclosed cabin. To ensure everyone has one available, boat owners are wise to carry extra life jackets in adult and child sizes. Be sure to double-check that the device fits correctly and is properly fastened, too.

2. Become educated in boat safety

Do you own a boat? The U.S. Coast Guard strongly recommends enrolling in a boating safety course.⁴ These courses are offered nationwide for recreational boaters of all experience levels and ages.

Many classes are sponsored by qualified volunteer organizations such as the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the U.S. Power Squadron, and other approved groups. In addition, most state boating agencies provide safety courses tailored to local waterways and regulations.

Depending upon your insurance company, you may also be eligible for discounts if you complete safety courses such as those offered by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.⁵

3. Be careful with alcohol

The U.S. Coast Guard's Boating Safety Division⁶ annual recreational boating statistics routinely identifies alcohol use as a leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents.

Some might say that, in a perfect world, no one would drink on or near a boat. However, as long as the boat operator is not imbibing, alcohol may be legally present on board under federal and most state boating laws.

If you do choose to permit guests to consume alcohol, do so with an abundance of caution — and with awareness about what responsibility you might bear if an accident were to occur.

4. Keep your boat in tip-top shape

A crack in the hull. Exhaust pipes leaking odorless, colorless and poisonous carbon monoxide near the back of the craft. The absence of a fire extinguisher. A faulty bilge pump. Messed up fuel lines. These are basic issues that can and should be addressed while your boat is docked or stashed in your backyard.

Preventive maintenance (including winterizing) can go a long way to avoiding accidents or even the loss of your boat via sinking. Fortunately, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary offers free vessel examinations and safety checks.

5. Be prepared

In the rush to get on the water, it’s easy to overlook some basic steps that can serve as an added layer of protection for you, family and friends. Consider the following before heading out:

• Bring ample water and sunscreen — and know the signs of heat exhaustion or dehydration.
• Let someone on land know when you’re leaving, your route and when you plan to return. Known as a “float plan,” this can help speed up a rescue if you are in need.
• Check the weather forecast. High winds and storms may interfere with your time on the water.
• Ensure everyone knows how to swim, if feasible. Consider investing time in additional water safety courses or certifications⁷ offered through the American Red Cross.
• Dress properly and consider bringing an extra set of clothes.

The takeaway

Resources and training opportunities can help keep you safe while boating. At the end of the day, however, most approaches to boating safety involve little more than forethought, common sense and a commitment to keeping everyone feeling confident and happy with the day’s activities.

Of course, it helps to have good boat insurance, too. RBFCU Insurance Agency offers boat insurance coverage options that include liability, collision, comprehensive, uninsured boaters and more. Request an online quote today.