Boating with kids on board is a really fun experience. Their excitement and enthusiasm is contagious! However, there are some important things you can do to make the boating environment a safe place for kids. Here are four smart ways to do that:
Your Boat, Your Rules
Establish yourself as the “captain” of the boat and explain your rules to everyone before shoving off. Some good rules for kids are no hands or feet outside the boat, no walking around while the boat is in motion, and no switching seats on the boat once you’ve picked one.
Some captains may even want to consider assigning seats, so that little ones don’t end up blocking the captain’s view. Lastly, you’ll want to consider what happens if a child breaks a rule.
A Well-fitting Life Jacket
Life jackets are a must for kids, and in many states, it’s the law. Make sure each life jacket snugly fits its wearer. Here’s a quick guide for properly fitting a life jacket. A life jacket that’s too small means there might not be enough flotation to keep an injured person above water. A life jacket that’s too big rides upon the wearer and puts the jacket’s shoulders at their ear level. This is dangerous because the life jacket won’t be able to hold the person’s head above water. Ask our Harbortown Marina – Canaveral marina store for safety supplies for purchase, including life jackets.
Learn CPR
Every adult should consider learning CPR because you never know when it might come in handy. But boaters especially should learn CPR in order to revive a drowning victim. Local hospitals, fire stations, and recreation centers often offer CPR classes. If you’re the captain of the boat, knowing CPR will give you peace of mind that you can keep your passengers safe.
Steer Clear of Alcohol
According to the Coast Guard’s 2018 Recreational Boating Statistics Report, alcohol consumption was the leading known contributing factor involved in fatal boating accidents that year. In order to keep kids safe onboard, adults should abstain from drinking alcohol while boating.Follow these tips, and you’ll ensure a safe voyage for any kids aboard your boat. To find more boating and fishing tips and articles, visit the Harbortown Marina – Canaveral’s Captain’s Blog.
