National Safe Boating Week highlights essential precautions for a safe summer on the water
By Jennifer Amato
The No. 1 safety tip to remember during National Safe Boating Week is simple: Wear a life jacket.
Capt. Frank DiMarino, a training captain for Freedom Boat Club who also holds a U.S. Coast Guard license, said “a stowed life jacket is always useless.” He emphasized that life jackets must be Coast Guard-approved, properly fitted and worn by anyone younger than 6 — and ideally by everyone on board.
John Sewell, director of business acceleration for Environmental Health and Safety at Brunswick and leader of the safety program for Freedom Boat Club, said he evaluates risk based on exposure and severity.
He said drowning is the most serious concern when boating because of its constant risk and high severity.
“You need to control that risk in some way; it’s very foreseeable that it can happen,” Sewell said. “If you’re wearing a life vest, you’re probably not going to drown.”
DiMarino said other safety practices are just as important. Boating safety courses are not only required but essential. They are available online or in person through the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and cover topics such as navigation, right-of-way rules and safe docking.
It is also important to have vessels inspected each spring.
Recommended onboard equipment includes a first aid kit, an audible signaling device such as a whistle or horn, flares, a working fire extinguisher, communication tools like a radio and fully charged cellphone, navigation lights and a GPS chart plotter.
“You leave the dock with what you have, and that’s what you have,” Sewell said, noting most boats have sufficient storage for safety gear.
“Mother Nature will throw things at you, so you want to be prepared,” DiMarino added.
Safety considerations vary depending on the type of vessel. Offshore boats must handle larger waves and stronger winds than smaller inshore vessels such as pontoons or center consoles.
Personal watercraft, such as jet skis, have additional rules because of their size and maneuverability. Life jackets are required for all riders. An engine cut-off switch must be used, with a lanyard attached to the operator to stop the craft if the driver falls overboard. Operators must stay at least 100 feet from docks, boats and swimming areas, and riding at night is prohibited.
DiMarino also stressed the importance of a float plan. Boaters should inform someone on land where they are going, who is with them, their route and their expected return time. This information can be critical if an emergency occurs.
Other key reminders include avoiding alcohol, staying alert and preparing for unexpected conditions.
“We want to build a culture of safety with some preventable factors,” DiMarino said.
“Human nature is to be complacent,” Sewell added. “The more comfortable we become, the risks seem further and further away … but Safe Boating Week reminds us those risks exist, no matter how experienced you are.”
National Safe Boating Week is May 16-22 and is organized by the National Safe Boating Council. For more information, visit safeboatingcampaign.com.
With Memorial Day approaching, DiMarino said it is an ideal time to enjoy the water — safely — with friends and family.