How to Be Safe on a Speed Boat

Speed boats are a great way to lower the temperature of a hot summer. Not only do they offer a cool breeze, a splash on your neck and a tan, but they also provide opportunities for exercise with rigorous water sports such as tubing and skiing. Unfortunately, hundreds of boating accidents occur every summer. Follow these safety tips to avoid disaster and have a good time on the water.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Read up on the rules. Every body of water is different. Make sure you understand the laws of the lake, river or ocean on which you are boating. Pay particular attention to where no-wake zones begin and end.

2. Count your life jackets. Speed boats must carry a life jacket for every person on board. Keep a few extras around for spare floatation devices. Young children usually have to be wearing a life vest at all times--check your state boating laws for rules on infants and toddlers.

3. Listen to your radio or television. Boating in bad weather is one of the most dangerous things you can do. Head for shore immediately if you see lightning, hear thunder or sense a severe change in weather.

4. Use a spotter. Whether you are pulling a tuber or skier or just going for an afternoon ride, take someone in the boat who can actively watch for obstructions in the water. This is extremely important. A driver and his/her spotter must be on the lookout at all times for swimmers, skiers, debris, no-wake zones and other boats.

5. Slow down in shallow water. You can do serious damage to your speed boat's motor if you aren't careful in water under 10 feet. Put the boat in neutral if you are unsure of the depth.

6. Idle or shut off the engine when passengers are entering or exiting the speed boat.

Tips & Warnings

• Do an Internet search or call your local marina for a list of boating rules for the lake, river or ocean in your area. It's also a good idea to look up the state boating laws, as each state is a little different.
• Every state offers boater education classes and literature for little to no cost. Take advantage of these valuable resources if you are planning a summer of boating fun.
• Disobeying boating laws or acting in a dangerous manner while on a speed boat can have great consequences in the form of hefty fines! Water police are not afraid to write fat tickets.
• Heat stroke and sunburn sneak up on you quickly. Bring plenty of fluids on the boat as well as sunglasses, a hat and suntan lotion.
• Don't smoke while fueling a boat's gas tanks.

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