As the boating season begins and 4th of July approaches, we know everyone wants to get on the water! Boating with a boat club is the best way to experience all our Florida waterways have to offer, all without the hassle of ownership. While these excursions are full of fun and leisure, the number one priority for every boater should be safety. Remember that it is important to take the necessary steps to make sure everyone on board stays safe. Here are some tips to ensure you, your family, and friends are safe while on the water. Take some time to learn some helpful 4th of July Boating Safety tips before you hit the water!
With the high amount of boat traffic during the holiday, paying attention to other boaters is essential. Read on for some helpful tips to keep everyone safe on the water!
4th of July Boating Safety Tips to Keep in Mind
Wear a lifejacket when out on the water.
It’s no secret that life jackets save lives. It’s as simple as that. Ensure that you know when it’s appropriate to wear life jackets when in, on or around water. No human being can factor in all possible scenarios in which you might need the help of a life jacket, so it’s better to be as prepared as possible instead of having to depend solely upon your swimming skills.
Don’t forget the sunscreen.
It can be easy to forget that you’re in the sun all day when socializing with friends and other people you meet on their boats. Reapply often and spend some time in the shade during the hottest points of the day.
What makes a sunscreen “Reef-safe”? How often should you reapply? What does SPF really mean? We have the answers and a complete list of the best sunscreens for you and your family. Read more here!
Always drive slowly and pay attention to no-wake zones.
A ‘no wake zone’ is a section of waterway with a strict speed limit. When navigating through a no wake zone, state and federal regulations generally require that the captain observe the slowest-possible vessel speed to maintain steerage, but no greater than 5 MPH. The goal is to minimize the wake created by boats passing through the zone.
Pay attention to local watercraft advisories and make sure your boat is suitable for the weather conditions.
Check the forecast to get the latest information, and reschedule your trip if unsafe conditions are expected. If you’re already out on the water, always be on the lookout for bad weather closing in. Remember, the weather can quickly take an unexpected turn for the worse. If you notice any signs that weather conditions are deteriorating, immediately turn around and head for safety.
Share your float plan with a friend.
If you’re not familiar, a float plan for a boater is comparable to a flight plan for a pilot. Your plan lists where you’re going, who’s going, a description of your boat, and when you expect to be back. You’ll also need to tell your friend just what you want them to do in the event they don’t hear from you within a reasonable time of when you’re expected back. The Coast Guard offers a free fillable float plan form with instructions. It doesn’t get any easier than that!
The inlets can be dangerous for unexperienced watercraft operation.
Navigating an inlet can be tricky and dangerous, so you should know how to safely run an inlet before you encounter one. Before you make an approach, study the wind and tide, and eyeball the chart. Go out to the sea buoy before shooting the inlet. The buoys’ locations were calculated to assist a direct approach. 4th of July Boating Safety tip, you can always ask our Member Services for some tips, or we can get you on a boat with a captain for some practice!
Never drink and boat. If you wish to consume alcoholic beverages, always have a sober captain.
Fourth of July weekend is, notoriously, one of the craziest times to be on the water. Some boat owners won’t risk the effort anymore, as the fun can be marred in an instant by a drunken boat operator. Some states are more dangerous than others for a number of reasons. For instance, Florida again leads the nation in boating accidents, with 742 boating incidents and 67 fatalities. Never drink and operate a boat, and always be aware of other boaters.
4th of July Boating Safety – Enjoy Fun in the Sun with Gulfstream Boat Club
We’re dedicated to helping members experience the best of life on the water with none of the hassles. We believe boating is the perfect way to spend time with family and friends outdoors, and visiting local attractions and hidden gems, while keeping your loved ones safe.
You have to be a member to know the difference joining a premium boat club makes. Join before it’s too late! Contact us today to learn about our Club locations that are currently accepting members this season.