One of the most crucial elements of marine safety is knowing what to do if an emergency arises. From minor injuries aboard the boat to stressful man-overboard situations, there are a variety of things that can go sideways during your boating trip. Have a boater’s emergency response plan in place—hope for the best, but remain prepared for the worst!
Your Pre-Trip Checklist
Before you and your companions head out, inspect your boat thoroughly and make sure the following items are aboard:
- A fully stocked first aid kit, complete with sterile bandages, pain medicine, and ice packs for smaller injuries
- Enough Coast Guard-approved life jackets for everyone aboard
- A fully charged and functional fire extinguisher
- At least one flotation device that can be tossed into the water
- A signaling device, like a portable light or a horn
- A VHF (very high frequency) radio to call for emergency assistance
Additionally, you and everyone aboard should have fully charged cell phones, just in case someone needs to call for non-emergency assistance or let others ashore know where the boat is.
During Your Trip
While you enjoy time with loved ones aboard the boat, maintain awareness of your surroundings. If you are the one operating the boat, avoid drinking alcohol, even if other passengers are imbibing.
Keep an eye on the weather while you’re on the water, even if you checked the forecast before setting out. Weather conditions can turn dangerous quickly! It’s wise to know when to head back to shore, lest you get caught in choppy waters or low-visibility conditions.
Top Boating Emergencies
While there’s a plethora of things that can go wrong on a boat, you should be prepared to respond to a few genuine emergencies.
Man Overboard
Has one of your passengers fallen into the water? Be prepared to rescue someone who’s gone overboard without endangering anybody else. It’s a good idea to have at least one or two strong swimmers with you, just in case the person in danger drifts out farther than expected.
Collision
If your boat crashes into another vessel on the water, stop the boat right away and ensure nobody aboard is injured. Make a distress call on your VHF radio to alert the Coast Guard of your location and the nature of the accident.
Injuries on Board
Has someone slipped and fallen on the deck, spraining or breaking their ankle? Use your first aid kit to stabilize any injuries that occur during the trip, and get back to shore as soon as you safely can. Avoid sending distress signals or using your VHF radio unless the injury is a genuine emergency.
Are you an avid boater? To stay safe and enjoy your time on the water, have an emergency response plan in place to account for a variety of mishaps at sea. You and your boating companions will have more peace of mind for it!
