Summer is nearly over, but there’s still plenty of time to get out in the sun and have some late summer fun with the family. Boating is an especially fun activity when the weather’s hot and you need to cool down. In fact, there are up to 15 million boats in use in the United States, which makes sense considering 71% of the Earth is covered with water.
But it’s important to take the proper safety precautions ahead of time and during your trip. Here are a few tips to consider before and during your boating adventure to make sure everyone stays safe and has a good time.
Invest in life jackets that are Coast Guard-approved
It’s no secret that a life jacket is vital to your child’s safety. But many parents don’t know that children under the age of 13 are required to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times when they’re out on a boat.
Life jackets that are made for kids are designed for extra safety by including a handle on the life jacket, head support, and a crotch strap to keep the life jacket from riding up.
Take a family boat safety course
Depending on which state you live in, your older kids may be required to take a boat safety course and to carry their certification with them while they’re on a boat. But even if you’re not required to take a course, it might be worthwhile to enroll in a safety course as a family. For boat rentals Smith Mountain Lake call Westlake Boat Rentals. And if you’re looking for boat storage, make sure to check out the most affordable boat storage in Montreal.
Boat safety courses ensure that everyone in your family knows what to do in case of an emergency or what to do if someone falls overboard. And considering the average pontoon boat can reach up to 22 mph with 11 people on board, falling overboard may be easier than you think.
Enroll in swim lessons for different types of water
Many kids and parents learn to swim when they’re young. But swimming in the ocean or lake is very different than swimming in a pool. There are currents, undertows, changes in weather, and rocky surfaces.
Consider enrolling in swimming lessons for different types of water as a family. It’s not only important that your kids know how to swim in unfamiliar waters but that you know how to swim in them, too.
Remember to wear sunscreen and hydrate
Water is a reflective surface so your kids are more likely to get a sunburn while they’re out on the water. Apply SPF 30 sunscreen or higher and re-apply every few hours or after your kids get out of the water.
Keep fresh water and snacks on board the boat, too. Under the hot summer sun, you’ll be sweating up a storm and hydration is crucial for preventing heat exhaustion. Snacks or packing lunches will also keep the kids from getting cranky if you end up spending more time on the water than you intended.
Boating can be a great summer activity for everyone if you take the proper safety precautions. By following the tips above, you can help keep everyone safe, secure, and happy while you’re out on the water.
