Safety on board

It helps to maintain safety in the water, making sure you are prepared in case of an emergency.

Those of us lucky enough to own a boat probably don’t spend most of our time on the water. 

The general lack of knowledge and experience is the reason why when you decide to go out on your boat – whether it is for fishing, swimming, water skiing or just for a ride In this way you will be sure to always sail safely on Marinemax boats.

Have your boat inspected

Before you go on the water, make sure your boat is as fit to sail as you are by scheduling a U.S. Coast Guard Boat Safety Inspection. This courtesy assessment is a free, fast and convenient way to make sure your boat complies with state and federal regulations for boating equipment. And don’t forget to inspect your boat’s trailer as well.

Courses and safety tips for navigation

You wouldn’t get behind the wheel of a car without first receiving a driving course, so why would you get behind the wheel of a boat without first receiving the correct instruction? 

A boat safety course will teach you the basics of boat operation, navigation and safety, as well as state and federal boat regulations.

Still not convinced? The reasons to take a boating safety course are as easy as counting to three (or four).

It’s required by law. Many countries now require operators to take an approved boating safety course as part of the process of obtaining their Marinemax boats license or safety certification.

Other tips to consider that could save lives:

• Know the rules. 

Before you set sail on your boat, learn the «rules of navigation» by taking a boat operator safety course. These rules are an important part of safe boating, especially when you meet, cross, or pass another boat. 

For smooth sailing, learn the purpose of buoys and other water safety markers, stay at a safe speed and watch the waters carefully. Check out the Coast Guard’s Safe Boating Resource Center for information on approved boating courses.

• Protect yourself against propeller strikes. 

Before starting the engine, make sure you have a record of all passengers on board and keep the emergency switch with you at all times. When people are in the water, ask someone to keep an eye on the propeller. Consider additional propeller safety devices, such as guards or sensors.

• Dress for water temperature, not air temperature. 

Hunters and fishermen who sail during the coldest months of the year should remember that cold water kills and should always wear a life jacket as a precaution when sailing.

• If you can’t swim, learn. 

Even a few basic swimming lessons could one day make the difference between life and death.

• If your boat tips over, stay with it. 

Not only will it provide you with a means to float, but it will make it easier for rescuers to find you.

• Always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket in your size. 

But wear it, don’t leave it behind. Life jackets that are left on are useless in an accident. In 2018, 77% of fatal boat accident victims drowned. Of those drowned, 84% were not wearing a life jacket.

• Lookout for carbon monoxide. 

All internal combustion engines produce carbon monoxide: a toxic, odorless, colorless gas. A poorly ventilated cabin, blocked exhausts and faulty equipment can contribute to the problem, but carbon monoxide emissions can affect the boat’s aft deck and other areas near the engine.

• Do not sail under the influence of alcohol or drugs (BUI). 

According to the Coast Guard, alcohol consumption is associated with approximately 19% of all recreational boating deaths.

• Leave someone a rescue plan. 

If you’re going to be in the water for a couple of hours, make sure someone on land knows where you’re going and when you plan to return.

• Appoint an assistant captain. 

Try not to be the only person on board who knows how to navigate your boat and where safety and first aid equipment is stored on Marinemax boats.

• Check the weather. 

Check the weather forecast before you leave, especially during hurricane season.

Have communication alternatives. Carry a cell phone in a sealed waterproof bag, but don’t rely on it completely.

• Use an emergency stop switch with a lanyard. 

On motorboats and personal watercraft, this simple tether between you and the starter switch turns off the engine if you fall overboard or lose your balance while boating, reducing the chance that you will hurt yourself or others in the water.