Monday, May 31, 2010

Memorial Day Boating Safety

Unfortunatley this Memorial Day Weekend in Iowa has been quite deadly on the water. Remember that there are a few things that can keep you and your family safe on the water:

1. Always wear a life jacket. Remember it is required that all kids 12 and under wear one, but parents and older brothers and sisters should too.

2. Do not drink and drive a boat. Alcohol has an even greater effect while boating than on shore due to the motion of the boat and the heat.

3. Take a boating safety class. You may think that you are a boating expert, but it never hurts to learn the rules of the road. Plus some insurance companies will offer you a discount on your boaters insurance. To find out when one is coming up e-mail us at boatingclass@flotilla4.org

4. Get a free vessel safety check. They are free and only take about 15 minutes. The Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Power Squadron both offer vessel safety checks that help boat owners to make sure that they have all of the required safety equipment to go on the water. Most boats that do not pass inspection are only missing a few things that cost less than $20. Also, some insurance companies will offer you a discount on your boaters insurance for passing the vessel safety check. To sign up to get a vessel safety check e-mail us at vsc@flotilla4.org.

Here are some safety tips on life jackets from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.