7 Boat Safety Items You Don’t Want To Forget
Brian O Sutter
Accident Lawyers
There is nothing like getting some warm sun out on the boat. Whether you are hoping to catch some fish or just want to relax on the water, Florida has everything a boat lover could want. However before you hop in, there are a few safety items you don’t want to forget on your next trip.
1. Life Jackets
Even if you are a team of expert swimmers, every person on the boat needs to have a Coast Guard approved life jacket that fits them properly. All your boat passengers don’t have to wear them, but they all need to know where they are located on the boat.
2. First Aid Kit
If an accident happens on the boat, you could be miles away from any kind of medical help. Thankfully, with a first aid kit handy you can be prepared for anything that might happen.
Your first aid kit should include:
- bandages of various sizes
- gauze
- crepe bandage roll
- butterfly clips
- hypoallergenic tape
- sterile wipes
- antiseptic liquid
- burn gel
- antibiotic ointment
- small, steel scissors
- tweezers
- gloves (preferably not latex)
- pain killers (such as ibuprofen and paracetamol)
- motion sickness tablets
3. Extra Food and Water Bottles
If you end up stuck out on the water or someone on the boat is feeling faint, it is important to have some food and water handy. Ideally, the food should be non-disposable so you won’t have to worry about it going bad while on the boat. If you bring any canned foods along with you, make sure that you have a can opener on the boat too.
Additionally, with how easy it is to get dehydrated out on the water, you want to ensure that there is plenty of water for all of your passengers.
4. Tools and Spares
Accidents aren’t the only thing you should be prepared for. Sometimes the boat itself may end up needing a little repair or certain parts may require replacing while you are out there. With your basic toolbox and a box of spares, such as light bulbs, fuel filter, head parts, etc., you can be ready for any fix up job that your boat may need.
5. Flashlight and Extra Batteries
Whether you are fishing at night or need to signal passing boats, a flashlight can really come in handy on the boat. Before you leave, you should test the flashlight to make sure that it is working properly. In addition, a few extra batteries can ensure that your flashlight won’t die on you.
6. Sound Producing Device
If your boat ends up getting stuck out there or you need to catch another boat’s attention, having something like a whistle or portable air horn can do the trick. If possible, try to attach a whistle to each life jacket to ensure that anyone who has fallen off the boat will be able to signal help.
7. Fire Extinguishers
Believe it or not, fire hazards can still happen even on the water. That’s why you should always carry at least one fire extinguisher and make sure it is easily accessible. If you are unsure how to use a fire extinguisher, you will want to learn beforehand.