Boating Safety
Most people who die in boating accidents drown, and most of those were not wearing a life jacket. Boating is safe and fun when you wear a life jacket, stay sober, watch the weather and know your boat.
- Families
- Recreation
- Anglers
Life jackets first
- Wear a life jacket that is U.S. Coast Guard approved, fits well and is in good shape. Fit matters; a loose one can slip off. Test it in shallow water.
- Children should wear a properly sized life jacket whenever the boat is moving, and in many places the law requires it. Check your state's rules.
- Inflatable jackets must be serviced and are not suitable for non-swimmers or small children unless labeled.
- Keep a throwable device, such as a ring buoy or cushion, on board if required for your boat.
Before you go
- Check the weather and water conditions; avoid thunderstorms, high wind and fog. See Thunderstorms & Lightning
- File a float plan with someone ashore: where you are going, who is aboard and when you will be back
- Check the boat: hull, engine, fuel, navigation lights, horn, fire extinguisher, bailer or pump and first aid kit. See Home First Aid
- Fuel up only with engines and electrical devices off; run the blower before starting gas engines
- Count heads. Everyone should know where the life jackets and exits are
- Take a boating safety course. Many states require one for some operators
On the water
- Do not drink alcohol while operating a boat. Alcohol is a leading factor in fatal boating accidents, and sun, wind and motion increase its effect. Boating under the influence is a crime.
- Keep a lookout and follow the rules of the road, including speed limits and no-wake zones.
- Use the engine cut-off switch (kill switch) lanyard on boats that have one, so the engine stops if the driver falls out.
- Do not overload the boat. Distribute weight evenly and keep it low. Do not stand in small boats.
- Be aware of carbon monoxide. Do not sit on the swim platform or near exhaust, and keep clear of the area behind the boat while the engine runs. See Carbon Monoxide.
If someone falls overboard
- Shout "man overboard," point to the person and keep your eyes on them.
- Throw a flotation device, stop the boat and turn off the engine near the person.
- Pull the person in from the side or back, using a ladder or line. See Water Rescue.
- If a boat capsizes, stay with it and climb on top if you can, then call for help by radio or phone.
Standards & references
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