Safe Boating tips & Summer Fun!

Safe Boating Tips for Summer Fun

Warm weather means more time on the water. Whether you’re fishing, cruising, waterskiing or simply spending the day with family and friends, a little preparation can make your boating experience safer and more enjoyable.

Before heading out, review these important safe boating tips and always follow current federal, state and local boating regulations.

Make Sure Everyone Has a Proper Life Jacket

Life jackets save lives. The U.S. Coast Guard recommends wearing a life jacket whenever a boat is underway.

According to the Coast Guard’s 2024 recreational boating statistics, where the cause of death was known, 76% of fatal boating incident victims drowned. Where life-jacket use was known, 87% of those victims were not wearing one.

Make sure every person aboard has an appropriately sized, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket suitable for the activity and in good condition.

Carry the Required Safety Equipment

Federal requirements generally call for a Coast Guard-approved wearable life jacket of the appropriate size for each person aboard. Boats greater than 16 feet must generally also carry an approved throwable flotation device, although exceptions apply to certain vessels such as canoes and kayaks.

Requirements can vary depending on the boat, activity and location, so check current federal and state regulations before heading out.

Avoid Alcohol While Operating a Boat

Alcohol and boating are a dangerous combination. Alcohol use remains the leading known contributing factor in fatal recreational boating incidents. Designate a sober operator and save alcoholic beverages for after you’ve returned safely to shore.

Take a Boating Safety Course

A boating safety course can help operators understand navigation rules, emergency procedures, required equipment and safe operating practices.

The Coast Guard’s 2024 statistics show that where boating instruction was known, 69% of deaths occurred on boats where the operator had not received boating-safety instruction.

Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions

Keep your attention on the water, surrounding boats, swimmers, changing conditions and navigational hazards. Cell phones and other distractions can take your attention away when conditions change quickly.

Operator inattention and improper lookout continue to rank among the leading contributing factors in recreational boating incidents.

Operate at a Safe Speed

Maintain a safe speed appropriate for traffic, visibility, weather and water conditions. Pay attention to other vessels, swimmers, docks, rocks, shallow water and navigational markers.

Always follow applicable navigation rules and local boating regulations.

Check the Weather Before You Leave

Weather conditions can change rapidly on the water. Check the forecast before leaving and continue monitoring conditions throughout the day.

If storms or hazardous conditions are approaching, don’t wait until conditions become dangerous before returning to shore.

Have a Reliable Way to Call for Help

Depending on where you boat, a properly equipped VHF marine radio can provide an important means of communication during an emergency. Boaters traveling in coastal or offshore waters should also familiarize themselves with Digital Selective Calling (DSC) and Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) numbers.

Be Aware of Carbon Monoxide

Gasoline-powered engines and generators can produce carbon monoxide, an odorless and potentially deadly gas. Never assume that being outdoors completely eliminates the risk.

Know the symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure and make sure your boat’s equipment is properly maintained.

File a Float Plan

Before leaving, tell a responsible person where you’re going, who is aboard and when you expect to return. If your plans change, let that person know.

A float plan can provide valuable information to authorities if you don’t return as expected.

Get a Vessel Safety Check

Regular maintenance and proper safety equipment are essential. A Vessel Safety Check can help identify missing or inadequate equipment before you head onto the water.

For current recreational boating safety information, regulations and resources, visit the U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety website.

Enjoy the Water — and Store Your Boat When the Day Is Done

Boating should be fun, but safety should always come first. Prepare before you leave, stay alert while you’re on the water and make sure everyone aboard knows the basic safety rules.

When it’s time to put your boat or personal watercraft away, Texas Maxi-Mini Self Storage offers outdoor boat and vehicle parking in San Antonio. Visit our Outside Storage page to view available parking options.