Posted by Steven on 12/12/2013
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Marina
The number one thought in every boat owner's mind should be safety. Ensuring you have all the essential safety gear on board prior to every outing on the water is vital to the welfare of you and your passengers, and in many cases, it is also required by law. Most boating accidents happen because the proper equipment is not on board, or the gear is not operated properly.
There are a number of essential safety items you need on your boat. Fire extinguishers and first aid kits are primary needs that no boat should be without. Fire and fume detection devices are also key to minimizing equipment damage and preventing small problems from becoming major ones. Life vests for each passenger are always as must. Floating rafts and life preservers for every passenger on board are essential should you need to abandon ship.
Signaling and survival items are another key component to boating safety. Flashlights, battery-powered strobe lights, rescue throw bags, shock and stormproof lighters, multi-purpose survival tools, pocket survival packs and LED flood lights are all terrific and responsible items to keep on board your boat. You should also have a pair of air horns on the boat to have the ability to signal other boats.
Immersion suits are another smart thing to keep on the boat. These suits help protect the human body from the dangers of overexposure, should there be an overboard passenger. Work suits are also great for protecting you from the elements while working about the decks in foul weather.
The primary key to ultimate boating safety is preparation. By accumulating all the essential gear you need for any circumstance and stowing it the proper way, you significantly reduce the chances of accident-related injuries or even worse. Check your boat for safety necessities and upgrade your equipment as needed to maintain maximum responsibility on the water.
