There’s nothing better than spending a summer day out on the water… until that moment arrives when you realize you’ve left something important behind. Equipping your boat with required and supplemental safety gear and other essentials will ensure a fun and safe boating experience.
Here’s a list of eight items that you should always carry in your boat.
1. SAFETY GEAR
Safety gear is obviously number-one on any list. Pack both Coast Guard mandated gear andother items that you should have close at hand no matter where or when you go boating. This should include, but not limited to, personal flotation devices (PFDs), fire extinguishers, flares/nighttime signals, flags and horns/whistles.
2. PROVISIONS FOR THE DAY
Pack plenty of water and other non-alcoholic and decaffeinated beverages. Bring a cooler filled with finger foods like fruit kebabs, cheeses, veggies and dip. Reach for canned chips instead of the bagged ones. They won’t get squished and sandwiches are a great staple.
3. ANCHOR & ROPE
Consider the anchor and rope essential safety gear that you should never be without. If you break down and need to call for a tow, being able to anchor will maintain your position and make it easier for help to find you. They will also hold you from drifting into a busy channel or a rocky shoreline while waiting.
4. THE RIGHT PROTECTION
Bring plenty of sunscreen, insect repellent and towels. Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses and additional clothing to change into.
5. SHARPE KNIFE
Rope, thick seaweed or fishing line can get wrapped around the prop and bring your boat to a sudden stand-still. If you don’t have a knife available to cut it free, you may end up having to call for a tow.
6. CLEANING SUPPLIES
This is particularly important when it comes to the boat’s vinyl, canvas and carpet. Things like juice or wine, food sauces or fish blood will come right out if you clean up spills immediately.
7. CHARGERS & CORDS FOR YOUR ELECTRONICS
Nothing’s more annoying than when your Bluetooth speaker, cell phone or other electronics run out of juice. Most modern boats have USB outlets and older ones usually have 12-volt plugs.
8. CELL PHONE
If you find yourself in trouble, perhaps in need of a tow, this allows you to communicate with others. It’s also a great navigation tool.
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At Blue Line Insurance Agency, we can offer a wide variety of coverages and options for your boat, jet ski or personal watercraft. Let one of our experienced agents give you the coverage you need and recommendations to best fit your situation. For a FREE no-obligation boat/watercraft insurance quote visit https://bluelineagency.com/personal-insurance/boat-insurance, or call 518-523-4321.