Set Sail for Safer Boating

Careless actions aboard a boat could land you in deep trouble. Here are some safety tips to keep your trip afloat:

• Don’t drink alcohol onboard. It affects your judgment and coordination. If you fall off the boat, alcohol can make it harder to swim and stay warm in the water. In fact, more than half of drownings are due to drinking alcohol on boats.
• Make sure the whole boating party wears lifejackets. About 90% of people who die in boating accidents aren’t wearing flotation devices. The jackets should have a label showing they are approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.
• Pay attention to weather forecasts. Head for the shore as soon as you see or hear a storm.
• Keep a first aid kit onboard.
• If you’re a guest, set sail with experienced boat operators only.