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Family Health Magazine
PREVENTION

Out on the Water
Follow the rules of boating safety

Every time you go out on the water, you could be in for more adventure than you expect. It is always best to be prepared. Boating is the leading activity contributing to water-related deaths. Immersion in the water is always sudden and unexpected. Three-quarters of fatal boating incidents involve capsizing, swamping or falling overboard. Following safety guidelines can help you enjoy a safe and enjoyable summer of fun on the water.

Top Ten Boating and Fishing Water Smart® Tips

1 Choose it and use it.

Always wear a lifejacket or personal floatation device (PFD). Just having a lifejacket in the boat isn’t enough. Pick one and wear it. Putting it on in an emergency is like trying to put on your seatbelt in the middle of a car crash.

2 Think about it. Boat sober.

Alcohol, drugs and boating do not mix. Alcohol or drugs are involved in about two-thirds of all boating deaths, including about three out of five of recreational power boating deaths, and more than four out of five canoeing deaths.

3 Get the pleasure craft operator (PCO) card.

If you are operating a boat with a motor, make certain you have the basic level of boating knowledge that comes with a PCO card. The Lifesaving Society’s Boat Operator Accredited Training (BOAT™) course will help you qualify for your PCO by teaching the boating ‘rules of the road,’ how to operate a pleasure craft safely and respond in a boating emergency.

4 Know before you go.

Check the weather forecast and ask about local hazards. Always check your equipment before you head out.

5 Take the right gear.

Along with your lifejacket or PFD, wear good sunglasses, sunscreen and appropriate clothing. Equip your boat with paddles, whistles and flares.

6 Follow the rules of the road.

Drive powerboats and personal watercraft responsibly. Be courteous of others using the waterways. Look before you act, stay low, and drive at moderate speeds. Be aware of changing weather conditions.Drive with extreme caution and proper lights after dark.

7 Never stand up in a small powerboat, canoe or other similar watercraft.

Many drownings occur because someone stands up or moves around in a boat.

8 Do not overload your boat.

9 Get trained.

Know how to swim and learn lifesaving skills. To be truly prepared, take Lifesaving Society courses at your local pool or aquatic facility.

10 Closely supervise young children near water.

By thinking ahead, you ensure the time you spend out on the water is both safe and enjoyable. Happy boating!