Smart Ways To Improve Boating Safety

Recreational boating is a great American hobby. From fishing to coasting, owning a boat helps you relax and enjoy nature. Although you want to have fun, boating also has its risks. In 2014, the United States Coast Guard stated that there were 4,064 accidents involving recreational boats. Additionally, there were 610 deaths, an increase of nearly 10 percent over 2013. Although steering a boat isn't like driving a car, boat operators must make safety a top priority. The following tips will help you improve safety on your boat, which can help keep your boat insurance premiums low.

Tip #1: Don't Overload Your Boat

When packing your personal belongings for trips, there's a natural tendency to want to take as much with you as you can, and boating is no different. From friends to supplies, most people want everyone and everything on their boat, but doing this increases the chances of overloading your boat. With an overloaded boat, the likelihood of capsizing and swamping increases. You should only take what you need so that you don't threaten everyone's safety.

Tip #2: Drive Slower

For many people, there is a temptation to go exceptionally fast when steering a boat. The temptation increases when there are others on your boat because you want to show them how great your boat is on the water. Clipping along at a fast pace reduces your ability to respond effectively, which increases your chances of having an accident. By going slower, you can avoid an accident, making your boat safer on the water.

During days when you have low visibility, it's important that you can stop within half the distance of your visibility.

Tip #3: Take a Boating Safety Course

Of all the accidents in 2014, most involved a boat operator who hadn't taken a boat safety course. Don't make this mistake. By taking a boat safety class, you'll get valuable information to avoid accidents and reduce the impact of having an accident.

Safety is a top priority when operating a boat. Armed with safety tips, you can reduce the possibility of getting into an accident, which may save your life and the lives of your passengers.

Are you eligible for a safety discount? Call Miller Insurance Agency at (409) 899-9531 for more information on Beaumont boat insurance.

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