An Easy Guide to Boating Safety

Published: Tuesday, April 20, 2021
By: Ohio Department of Natural Resources

Cold-water immersion causes many water-related fatalities. The danger increases as water temperature decreases below normal body temperature (98.6° F). Whether you’re a boater, angler, or hunter in Ohio, please practice safety around the water. It’s important to understand the unique risks that come with cooler temperatures.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Parks and Watercraft is a partner of the worldwide Safe Boating Campaign, led by the National Safe Boating Council. We offer these tips to boaters, anglers, and hunters in our community.

1. Wear a life jacket

   Even experienced swimmers will experience shock within one minute in the frigid water and lose muscle control within 10 minutes.

2. Dress properly for the weather

   Always wear layers, and bring an extra set of clothes in case you get wet. Remember, dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.

3. Catch your breath

   A sudden, unexpected fall into cold water causes an involuntary gasp (or torso) reflex. It takes less than one-half cup of water in your lungs to drown. If you remain calm, you have a greater chance of self-rescue.

4. Don’t panic if you fall into the water

   Stay afloat with the help of your life jacket, regain control of your breathing, and keep your head above water in vision of rescuers.

5. Don’t keep heavy boots on if you’re in the water

    Look for ways to increase your buoyancy. If you’re in the water with others, huddle together with everyone facing inward to help everyone stay afloat and keep warm.

6. Take a boating safety course

   Learn valuable tips that can help save your life in unexpected situations. Visit http://bit.ly/3azKB4X for more information.

7. Make sure your boat is prepared

   There are many items that need to be checked and rechecked on any boat. Schedule a Vessel Safety Check with your local ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft office at http://bit.ly/3pGSRVm, or with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons, before you hit the water. Every Vessel Safety Check is conducted 100% FREE of charge.

8. File a float plan with someone you trust

   The plan should include details about the trip, boat, persons, towing vehicle or trailer, communication equipment, and emergency contacts. Download a free float plan template at https://floatplancentral.cgaux.org/.

9. Don’t drink while you boat

   Where the primary cause was known, alcohol was listed as a leading factor in boating-related deaths. Find out more at www.operationdrywater.org.  

10. Keep in touch

    Communication devices can be the most important piece of emergency equipment on board a vessel, especially in case of emergency. Be sure to have at least two communication devices that work when wet, such as satellite phones, emergency position indicating radio beacons (EPIRB), VHF radios, and personal locator beacons (PLB). Cell phones are not reliable in an emergency situation.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your boat, the water, sunshine, and fresh air responsibly. For additional boating resources and tips, please visit http://bit.ly/3dplhk5 or www.SafeBoatingCampaign.com/Resources.

A version of this article appeared in the Spring Issue (Mar/Apr) 2021 of Great Lakes Scuttlebutt magazine.

tags: Boating 101, safety

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