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Home | Travel & Leisure | Boating Boating is both an exhilarating sport and a relaxing hobby. Whether your idea of "fun" is speeding through the surf or paddling along a quiet stream, water is the perfect backdrop for a day of unbridled freedom. Water is fun and relaxing, but it does command utmost respect. There can be a lot of danger to participating in water sports, and the smartest boaters are always the safest boaters. Floatation Devices Every wise boater prepares for the unexpected. A quick turn to the weather can bring on choppy conditions, high waves and hard rains. Even the most experienced boaters can find the adventures cut short when the weather causes capsize or collision. No one is invincible, particularly where nature is concerned. Everyone who is present on a boat, including the strongest swimmers, must wear a floatation device. Small and young children are at the biggest risk of drowning or injury. Wearing a floatation device isn't only smart, but it's the law in many places. Some states and provinces have regulations in place that require everyone on board to wear a floatation device. Stay on Your Safety Course Experience boaters and nautical novices alike should taking boating safety courses. Most areas offer free courses, and the lessons can usually be completed in a day or two. Enroll yourself, and your entire family. Kids are never too young to learn about boat safety. If you have trouble finding safety courses in your city, see what you can find online. The Internet is a great resource for all types of courses and training programs. Boats and Booze Don't Mix You need a clear head and swift reflexes to operate any type of water craft. The use of alcohol or drugs impairs your judgment and slows your ability to react. Prescription drugs can also take a dangerous toll on your ability to boat safely. Drinking and boating is illegal in most areas, and the same laws that apply to DUI drivers on the road will be imposed on DUI boaters. You can lose your craft or even your life, so don't take your chances. Be a Good Judge Boat safety is ultimately about sensibility. Be aware of the extent of your abilities. Know whether you can make intelligent, split-second decisions. What will you do if another boat suddenly veers toward you? How will you help a buddy that falls from his water skis and disappears from your line of sight? It can happen, and you'll need to have the common sense to make the right decision. Know your options and you'll be better prepared. Have Respect Respect on the water is just as important as respect on the highway. Be aware of other boaters and respect their rights to share the water. Other boaters need to be able to see you in the blinding sun of daytime and the deep dark night. Keep within the water speed limit. Follow the rules of the waterway. Respect your passengers and your own safety, as well. No one is impressed when you show off and take risks. Care for Your Craft A poorly maintained boat is an accident waiting to happen. Check your craft often to ensure that all components are in safe working order and adhere to boat safety requirements. You keep a maintenance record for your car, and should do the same for your craft. Your boat and motor should be regularly maintained, and you must know how to perform emergency repairs if you have an accident or breakdown on the water. Boating can mean anything from a fun kayaking trip, to an exhilarating afternoon of extreme water skiing, to a relaxing afternoon of fishing. However you choose to spend your time on the water, just remember to make boat safety your first priority. Article Source: http://www.articlewheel.com
Celeste Izon loves writing for several web sites, on fishing sports recreation and other hobby topics.
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