Did you know that there were over 767 boating fatalities in the U.S. in 2020? If you’re new to boating or are thinking about getting into the boating industry, safety should be your top priority.
While boating is a lot of fun, it’s essential to ensure you have all the necessary supplies and safety equipment before you set out. If you forget something important, it can ruin your whole trip or even lead to a fatal accident.
That’s why we’ve put together this boating essentials checklist. This list will help ensure that you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable boating experience.
Spill Kit
If you want to be fully prepared for your next boat outing, it’s recommended to always be sure to have a spill kit on hand in case of emergency. Spill kits work for chemicals, oil, body fluid and more.
Click here for info on how you can pick up a spill kit today.
Life Jackets or Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
Life jackets provide flotation and help keep your head above water if you fall overboard. Ensure you always wear a life jacket when boating, even if you know how to swim.
Children and non-swimmers should also have a life jacket when aboard a boat. Be sure to check the fit of your PFD and make sure it is not too loose or too tight.
If the life jacket is too tight, it may be difficult to swim or breathe. If it is too loose, it may not stay in place and could come off in the water. This may result in drowning.
First Aid Kit
A good first aid kit is essential for any boating trip—pack supplies for treating cuts, scrapes, burns, insect bites, and allergic reactions. You should also pack supplies for bandaging, splinting, and CPR. Don’t forget to pack any prescription medications you or your family members take.
Spare Boat Fuses and Trailer Lights
As a boat owner, you need to be prepared for any situation. But what about the less obvious items? Spare boat fuses and trailer lights may not seem like essentials, but they can come in handy.
It’s essential to have spares when your main fuses and trailer lights burn out. Boating without these spares can sideline you and leave you stranded in the water.
Boat fuses are available in a variety of sizes and amperage while trailer lights come in various styles. Likewise, different types of boats use varying fuses and trailer lights, so be sure to get the right ones for your boat type.
Waterproof Stowaway Utility Boxes
One of the most important things to consider when boating is where you will store your belongings. Many people opt for a waterproof stowaway utility box to keep their belongings safe and dry.
These boxes are perfect for storing items such as life jackets, flares, and first-aid kits. Most importantly, they will keep your belongings dry in the event of a capsized boat or another water emergency.
When choosing a waterproof stowaway utility boat storage, it is important to consider the size and type of boat you have. You will also want to consider the number of people using the box and the types of belongings you will store in it.
Check out this site for more boat storage info.
Now You Know the Right Boating Essentials to Bring on Your Next Trip
We hope this boating essentials checklist will help you have a safe and enjoyable experience on your next boating trip. Remember, these items are essential for any trip, so be sure to pack them before you set out.
Remember, boat ownership comes with a lot of responsibilities, and it’s your job to keep everyone on board safe at all times.
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