SAFE BOATING TIPS

• People who hunt or fish from boats have one of the highest boat fatality rates.  More die from falling off boats 16 feet and smaller than larger boats, and most boats are anchored at the time.

• Be weather wise.  Sudden wind shifts, lightning flashes and choppy water all can mean a storm is brewing.  Bring a portable radio to regularly check weather reports.

• Bring extra gear you may need.  A flashlight, extra batteries, matches, a map of where you are, flares, suntan lotion, first aid kit and extra sunglasses.  Put those that need to be protected in a watertight pouch or a container that floats.

• Tell someone where you're going, who is with you and how long you'll be away.  Then check your boat, equipment, boat balance, engine and fuel supply, before leaving.

• Ventilate after fueling.  Open hatches, run blower and most important, carefully sniff for gasoline fumes in the fuel and engine area before starting your engine.

• Stay dry and warm.  Wear several layers of light clothing and bring a rainproof covering.  Never wear hip waders in a small boat.

• Keep fishing and hunting gear clean and well packed.  A loose fish hook can cause a lot of pain and ruin a great outing.  Bring an extra length of line to secure boat or equipment.

• Be ready for trouble when a powerboat passes you in a narrow channel.  As the lead boat (which always has the right of way) stay on your side of the channel and always maintain a steady speed so that the overtaking vessel can pass you safely.  Use your radio to discuss this with the passing boat.

• Anchor from the bow not the stern.  Use an anchor line length that is at least five times longer than the water depth.

• Take a safe boating course. 

• As an extra benefit, you may earn lower boat insurance cost.