No matter if you are an experienced boater or just taking your first voyage out on the water, there are a few steps you can take to ensure your trip is secure and enjoyable.

First and foremost, always wear a life jacket (also known as a PFD). This is mandatory in most states and can save your life should you ever go overboard.

Top Boating Safety Tips to Make Sure You Follow

1. Know Your Boat

Playing in the water and having fun this summer can be enjoyable, but there are several important safety considerations to take into account. These include knowing your boat, understanding traffic rules, weather patterns, etc.

No matter if you're out on the water with family or friends, these tips will help keep everyone safe and having an awesome time!

The initial and most essential step for all boaters is becoming familiar with your vessel. This knowledge can make all the difference in an emergency.

2. Know the Rules of the Road

Boaters must adhere to the same road rules as drivers when out on their vessels. Just as it's essential for you to know your rights and responsibilities when approaching an intersection, boaters also need to understand right-of-way rules so as to prevent collisions.

Thankfully, there are a few simple guidelines you can follow to prevent unnecessary accidents and make the water safer for everyone.

Essentially, you should keep your distance from other boats and stay in your lane. Doing this will enable you to safely maneuver your vessel around other vessels without fear of someone cutting in front of or running into you.

3. Know the Weather

Weather is the sum total of all elements in our atmosphere and it can vary drastically from one moment to the next. It includes rain, wind, and lightning.

Before embarking on any boating expedition, boaters should keep an eye on the weather. A quick call to your local radio station or internet news site can give you up-to-date info about pending storms, surf conditions, and other factors that could potentially impact your trip.

Thankfully, there are plenty of apps that can keep your boating and swimming adventures safe and dry. Here are the top 10 marine weather apps no boater should be without. The most effective way to stay safe on the water is to have a plan and be prepared when something goes awry.

4. Have a Float Plan

Float plans are essential for all boaters, whether you're a day sailor or cruiser. They help rescuers locate you in case of an emergency.

When creating a float plan for your trip, it's important to include important information like where you are going, how long it will last, and when you plan on returning. Additionally, include how many passengers are aboard as well as what type and color of boat you use along with any special signal devices or information that might make it harder for search and rescue personnel to track you down.

It's essential to stay in contact with your float plan guardians while out on the water. If they can't reach you, call them to let them know that you haven't returned yet and save them time and resources from unnecessary searches - saving valuable Search and Rescue services for other emergencies that may occur.

5. Have an Emergency Plan

When boating on local lakes, rivers, or oceans, it's essential to have an emergency plan in place. This way, if something should happen while out on the water, friends, and family will know where to search for you.

When creating a float plan, include information about your vessel and where you launched from as well as an estimate for when you plan to return. Doing this makes it much simpler for authorities or search and rescue teams to locate you in case of an emergency.

Life jackets are another essential safety measure that should always be worn by everyone on board your boat. Additionally, ensure all fire extinguishers are U.S. Coast Guard-approved and that your VHF marine radios are working correctly before embarking on an outing.

Make sure you use these boating safety tips anytime you hit the water, whether with Jax Boat Club or on your own.