In 2020, there were about 11.84 million registered recreational boating vehicles. While this number has been on the decline since 2007, boating remains an incredibly popular pastime. Anyone who has ever spent much time on the water, though, knows that it comes with a few risks. To help keep you and your loved ones safe, be sure to follow these boating safety tips.

1. Always Wear a Life Jacket

Even if you are a strong swimmer, it is still a good idea to wear a life jacket anytime you are out on the open water. Most importantly, wearing a life jacket will help prevent drowning due to fatigue in the event that you are stuck in the water for an extended period of time. A life jacket can also ensure that you stay afloat even if you are knocked unconscious due to a collision or other boating accident.

2. Pay Attention to the Weather

Inclement weather is one of the most common causes of boating accidents - and it does not take gale-force winds or hurricane-like conditions for the weather to prove dangerous. Before you take your boat out, always be sure to check the radar and forecast for your area. If there is any threat of heavy rain, lightning, or high winds, it is best to stay at home. Likewise, if you are out on the water and see the skies darkening or the wind picking up, be sure to return to land as quickly as possible.

3. Beware of Your Propeller

Propellers have been powering boats since the 1800s. If you are not careful, though, a propeller's rapidly spinning blades can cause severe injury to anyone who gets too close. If you have swimmers in the water outside your boat while it is running, be extra careful about keeping the back of your boat far away from them. If you bring young children with you on the trip, make sure that they know to always keep their distance from the boat's propeller at all times.

4. Inspect Your Boat

Having your boat break down far from the nearest shore is inconvenient at best and dangerous at worst. Before you take your boat out, always be sure to thoroughly inspect it to ensure that it can complete the trip. This process includes checking your fuel/battery level, testing your oil, checking for leaks, and making sure that the linkages under your outboard cowling are properly greased.

Conclusion

Boating is a relatively safe hobby, but it is one that can be risky at times. Thankfully, a few precautions can go a long way toward mitigating these risks and help ensuring that you and your loved ones make it back to shore safe.