A great way to boost your confidence on the water is to enroll in boater education courses to keep yourself up to date with relevant laws and refreshed on good practices. Life jackets are always a must. All drivers should ensure their boat isn't overloaded and a passenger is around to help if necessary. Let’s take a more in depth look at these and some more important components of a safe outing on the water.

Always Wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) or Life Jacket 

Sadly, most boating fatality victims are found without a PFD. It’s very important to always have extra PFDs in both adult and child sizes so everyone on the boat can be safe. Any children under the age of 13 must wear a PFD on board at all times.

Avoid Alcohol 

Driving a boat after or while drinking is just as dangerous as driving a car after you’ve been drinking. The probability of being killed in a boating accident doubles when alcohol is involved. There is monitoring on the water, and boating while intoxicated carries penalties similar to driving while under the influence, including possible driver’s license suspension.

Enroll in a Boater Education Course 

Getting educated on how to use and operate your boat safely is incredibly important. The whole family can get in on it and take a course as you may all be working together out on the water. For information on in-person or online course options, visit your state's Parks and Wildlife Department Boater Education web page for more information.

Be Aware of Distance to Objects 

This one may seem simple but is often overlooked, especially when water sports are involved. Be sure to maintain a 50-foot distance from other people, vessels, the shore, or stationary platforms unless operating at idle speed. It can be easy to get caught up in the fun, but it’s important to stay aware.

Operate at a Safe Speed 

Although most open water areas don’t have numerical speed limits, you may be given a ticket for excessive speed or operating your boat recklessly. It’s always important to operate your boat at a safe speed but especially on a busy day. Any potential hazards can become more of an issue at faster speeds.