Boating Accidents - Six Guidelines To Avoid Them

Each Spring boaters from all over the country rush toward the lakes, rivers and moreover oceans to appreciate their boats. Of course, the first months of the Spring season are frequently the most dangerous times to boat because the water temperatures in lakes, rivers plus oceans aren't yet warm.

In fact, statistics show that somekeyword lead to fatalities four times greater than usual if the water temperatures are thirty-nine degrees or colder. The most common fatal boating accidents involve a boat capsizing or individuals falling overboard. When an individual falls into very chilly water, their energy is immediately zapped plus they'll find their movements are slowed naturally.


A human body will cool 25 times faster in cold water than it does in frigid air. Thus, even if someone is only submerged for a few moments, they can immediately start to lose the ability to swim, use their muscles or even breathe correctly.

Life jackets may help people survive longer however, as they will help them stay afloat even when their muscles fail them. As a matter of fact, the latest statistics showed that in 2008 there were 510 people who drowned in boating accidents and of those people 459 of them weren't wearing a life jacket.

Adhere to these six safety boating tips this year whilst you're boating:

1) Always Wear A Life Jacket: When you're on a vessel, the easiest way to stay safe is to always wear a life jacket. All life jackets used should be U.S. Coast Guard approved and moreover be in great condition. Each passenger should have their own life jacket that fits them well.

They should not be locked in closed compartments or put into plastic bags, as they will likely be needed to be accessed quickly in case of emergency. Wearing the life jacket at all times is the best way to be certain you're protected. In addition, each boat should have throw-able flotation devices handy.

2) Prepare For Possible Danger: Before you hit the water, be certain you are ready for any possible danger or crisis situation. Always put your cell phone in a waterproof plastic bag plus keep it in your pocket. Be certain to also leave a "float plan" with a friend or relative. having a first aid kit on board as well as a supply of food and water is also very important.

3) Check The Weather: Checking the weather before you venture out into the water is a very wise thing to do. Talk with locals to find out if you will find any local boating hazards you should be aware of. Be sure to bring maps of the area and ensure all of your safety equipment (GPS, radios, flares, locator beacons) are in good working order.

4) Choose Clothing Wisely: To protect yourself against hypothermia, it's important to dress for safety when boating. If the water temperatures are below 90 degrees, hypothermia could be a danger should you fall overboard. Clothes made of polypropylene are a great choice, as they trap body heat.

5) Research Boating Regulations: One of the most important things you can do is ensure you're following proper somekeyword, for example ensuring all passengers are prepared with a life jacket or making sure you are not overloading the boat.

6) Always Stay Calm: If an emergency does strike and someone is thrown overboard, don't panic. If the boat overturns, get out of the water and stay with the boat (sit on top of it).

About the Author: Garrett Hawkins is a law student in Oregon who writes about legal topic that interest him. Garrett hopes to be a somekeyword someday, specializing in auto accidents, somekeyword, construction accidents laws and more. Please do NOT take my opinions as legal advice. I am NOT an attorney.

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