Boat Safety Equipment To Always Keep Onboard

There's nothing like a day on the Chesapeake Bay with your boat. All is takes is one experience of the boating lifestyle, and most people are hooked. But from a first time boater to a seasoned pro, there's one aspect of boating that can never receive enough attention - safety. There are a few things you should always keep on board your boat to make sure you get the most out of your boat.

Life Jackets

A life jacket is probably the most crucial piece of boating safety equipment, but one that people neglect the most. When people are out on a boat, they want to enjoy the sun and spray - so many go without a life jacket. When most people think of a life jacket, the big, bulky orange block comes to mind. Today's life jackets are a lot more comfortable than most people would think, though. They're available in slim, flexible styles that don't really inhibit movement. Even if you have them stowed somewhere in the boat, accidents often happen at a very quick speed, and there's not time to react and reached a stowed vest. So keeping your vest on is key. A report from the United States Coast Guard says that simply having a life jacket would have saved over 80 % of boating deaths.

A First Aid Kit

Minor accidents can and almost certainly will happen on your boat - as with any other recreational activity. And when they do, you want to be prepared. You may be some distance away from medical help, so keeping a first aid kit onboard can make sure everyone stays safe. Also, a minor accident could become more serious if you don't have proper care onboard. Keeping a kit handy can make sure you're able to have a fun and safe day on the water.

Drinking Water

Sure, there's plenty of water around. But can you use it? Keeping a supply of drinking water onboard can keep everyone safe in the event you have mechanical trouble a long way from shore. Since most boating is occurs during warm and sunny weather, it's best just to have water around to keep everyone cool. People can get dehydrated a lot more quickly than they think while boating. You have direct sunshine, a possible breeze and fun activities that uses energy. Keeping drinking water onboard ensures everyone's safety and health.

What safety equipment do you alway keep onboard?