While Mother Nature isn't giving in to pleasant boating season JUST yet, we all know it'll be here and soon - Hopefully. In the meantime, we've put together some safety tips that we here at MathewsBros are big advocates for - and some that'll come in handy if you get boarded! We hope everyone has a Safe & Enjoyable boating season!
- Be weather aware. Check the weather forecast before you head out. It’s better to have an idea if inclement weather is in the area so you know to keep an eye out. While you’re on the water, be sure to keep a look out for fast approaching dark clouds possibly indicating inclement weather. Always err on the side of caution; pull into a marina if possible until the storm passes. If it’s not possible to tie up at a marina, stay on the leeward side of the storm.
- Drink Responsibly. The right amount of alcohol for the captain of the vessel is NONE.
- Don’t depend entirely on the GPS. Always have nautical charts as a backup – and know how to read them - should something go wrong with your GPS. Also, pay attention to your surroundings in addition to the GPS; keeping an eye on markers in conjunction to the nautical chart will help you determine where you are.
- Have a float plan. Be sure to let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return – especially if you’re boating alone – keep them aware of any changes in your plan if at all possible.
- Life Jackets. Have a properly sized life jacket on board for everyone on the vessel and make sure each person knows where they are kept and how to put them on. All children under the age of 13 must WEAR a United States Coast Guard approved Life Jacket (Type I, II, III or V) while underway on a recreational vessel under 21 feet in length on Maryland waters. You should also have a throw cushion or ring with floating line to be able to toss to someone in the water if necessary. Please click this link to fully understand the requirements.
- Check bilge pump function. Before you head out, be sure your bilge pumps are operational. Check your bilges to see if you have water in them. If there is a significant amount of water, it’s better to find out before you leave the dock and make repairs if necessary.
- Guaranteed communication. While cell phones are fine for notifying of any change in plans, a VHF radio – installed or hand-held – is always good to have on board in the case of an emergency; you will want any boat in the vicinity to assist you. Channel 16 is monitored by the US Coast Guard, and is recognized as a hailing channel. Please see proper VHF protocols here.
- Check light function. Even if you’re not planning to be on the water after dusk, it’s always a good idea to make sure your lights are functioning each time you go out on the water. Please note that if you are boarded by the Coast Guard or DNR, you must be able to show that you have working navigation lights even during the day.
- Know your boat. Get comfortable with your boat, use it enough so you know what’s normal and what’s not. If something is amiss, you’re more likely to notice sooner rather than later.
- Know YOUR ENGINE. Same principle as above, make sure it is pushing water, be familiar with how it sounds.
- CO detector. If your boat has a cabin, it’s a great idea to have a CO monitor as Carbon Monoxide is an odorless, tasteless, invisible and dangerous gas. More info here.
- Boater’s safety course. If you were born after 1972, and Live OR Boat in Maryland waters, you will be required to have documentation that you passed your Boater’s Safety Course. Most other states on the eastern seaboard are requiring Boater Safety Certificates as well, and some states require it no matter when you were born. Do your research; know what is expected of you.
- Be tide aware. Especially if you’re in an area that’s prone to super low tides, be sure to check the tides so you don’t get stuck due to low water. Also note that some bodies of water have very fast, very strong currents related to tides; do some research on where you plan to boat so you are aware.
- Safety Equipment: Be sure you have the appropriate on-board equipment for your size/type of boat. These should include but are not limited to: life jackets, throw cushion, whistle/horn, day/night flares, paddle, first aid kit, VHF radio and an AB fire extinguisher. For specific requirements, please click here.
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