Posts Tagged ‘safety’

The Fourth of July is a federally recognized holiday commemorating our nation’s independence from Great Britain. However, it’s also a time of year when friends and family get together to enjoy outings on the water. There’s no better way to enjoy your Fourth of July holiday than by taking your boat on the lake with a group of close friends.

If you plan on boating this Fourth of July, though, you should take some extra precautions to ensure you and your passengers remain safe. According to data released by the U.S. Coast Guard, boating accidents last year resulted in 560 deaths, 2,620 injuries, and over $39 million in property damage. The combination of a celebratory atmosphere and more people on the water increases the chance of a boating-related accident during the Fourth of July.

No matter how tempting it sounds, do not attempt to shoot fireworks from your boat. Fireworks are a staple item for Independence Day celebrations, but they should only be used on land. Igniting them from your boat could result in a fire while leaving you subject to a fine.

Rather than setting off your own fireworks, perhaps you can ride your boat around to watch other fireworks displays. Most major lakes – and even smaller ones – will have multiple fireworks displays on the Fourth of July. And being that you’re on a boat, you can pull right up for a front-row seat.

Alcohol continues to be a contributing factor in many boating accidents. If you’re the designated driver, refrain from drinking this Fourth of July.

Aside from alcohol, there are several other factors that sap your energy and impair your ability to operate a boat. Ana Radolinski of the U.S. Coast Guard urges the importance of operating a vessel without impairment.
“Even without alcohol, motion, vibration, engine noise, sun, wind, and sea spray can fatigue a boater and cause them to become impaired more quickly than when driving a car on land. When out on the water, always designate a competent vessel operator who can safely navigate without impairment,” said Petty Officer 3rd Class Ana Radolinski.

Whether you live on the east coast, west coast or anywhere in between, the Fourth of July is one of the busiest times of year for lakes, rivers and waterways. With more people on the water, you need to use extra caution when operating a boat. Don’t just look for other boats, but also keep your eyes peeled for swimmers, tubers, kayakers, inflatable rafts, etc.

Be sure to check out our previous post for more boating safety tips.

Nothing beats Boats for providing cool relaxation on hot summer days. But that relaxation can be cut short when something goes wrong or malfunctions.  Avoid having your relaxation interrupted this summer by following these quick safety tips before taking your boat out.

• Check weather reports and tide charts or current conditions before committing to a boating expedition.
• Make sure you have a life jacket for every person on board.
• File a float plan with someone you trust, so if something does go wrong, your friends know where to tell the coast guard or other emergency personnel to find you.
• Consider taking a boating safety course if you are new skipper.
• Test your on board equipment for proper function and double check oil and fuel levels.
• Double check that any safety equipment such as radios, beacons, or alarms are functional.
• Check if the area where you will be boating recommends any additional safety gear or fittings for common conditions.
• Don’t overload your boat, and make sure that all weight is evenly distributed.
• Have one other person designated as a look out to watch for hazards, such as floating debris or other boats.  Sometimes nothing beats a second set of eyes for avoiding an accident.
• Keep your boat weatherized, covered and well-maintained when it is not in the water.

For more tips on keeping your boat in the best condition and the equipment that’ll help to keep your time on the water safe and relaxing this summer, contact us at Performance Product Technologies.

Whether your boat for business or pleasure, the US Coast Guard recommends a yearly free Vessel Safety Check. The check takes the Vessel Examiner 30-45 minutes and covers all necessary bases to ensure your boat meets all federal and state regulations. By undergoing the free procedure, boat owners avoid fines and unforeseen mishaps on the water.

Boats that have completed an inspection are fixed with a VSC Decal so that the Coast Guard, Harbor Patrol, and other boaters know it is up to code. Boat freely knowing that law enforcement won’t take any issue with your vehicle and that your friends and family will be safe when they come along for the ride.

The Coast Guard recommends annual inspections for all watercraft including jet skis, yachts, and paddle sport boats. No matter your level skill and experience, all boaters are safer after undergoing Vessel Safety Checks.

A written report issued after the inspection will inform you of any problems found in your boat with recommendations for repairs. Having boating safety specialists examine your vehicle is a great way to catch issues you may have missed. The Coast Guard isn’t determined to fail people on this inspection; boats that don’t meet regulations are given clear instructions on how to do so, and almost always pass a quick and easy re-inspection. We have all necessary parts replacements available in our Performance Product Technologies online store at https://www.perfprotech.com/

You can find further information and sign up for inspections at http://wow.uscgaux.info/.