No matter the reason for heading out on the water, you always want to make sure safety is a top priority.
That said are you planning one or more water activities soon? If so, will safety be at the top of your list?
Don’t Make a Costly Mistake
There are a myriad of water-related activities you can do and enjoy.
With that in mind, it is important you prepare before you set foot in the water.
From swimming at the beach to the best Dana Point whale watching tour, keep safety at the top of your list.
So, how Best to go about this?
First, get some background information on where you are planning to go.
As an example, are you headed out on the ocean for a day of sailing? If the answer is yes, be sure to check on the following:
- Weather Conditions – Of most importance, get weather conditions before you hit the water. What can start out to be a beautiful day for sailing can change in a rather fast manner. Do your best to learn about any pending storms that may head your direction.
- Have Necessary Supplies – From flares to bottled water and more; prepare your boat. Some who’ve had an injury or suffered a worse fate while sailing did not always prepare. As a result, they ran into trouble when the weather changed and the seas got rough. Also make sure you have GPS coordinates in the event you get lost.
- Alert someone – Even if planning a few hours of sailing, alert one family member or close friend of your plans. This includes the time you are putting your boat out on the water and your estimated return time. In the event you miss the latter, the one can call authorities if being a little late turns into no sign of you or the boat.
Last, never tempt fate by drinking alcohol and operating a vessel.
It is important to keep in mind that there are rules on the sea as there are on the highways and local roads. As such, you may run into harbor patrol or other authorities if it appears you are drunk.
Are You Taking Your Children?
If you plan to take your children out be it the ocean, lake, river or other venue, make sure they are ready for it.
This means they are old enough to understand the possible dangers that can exist. Although you or another adult are in charge, your kid should be old enough to be of some help in an emergency.
Also be sure that your child has the proper clothing and sunscreen when out on the water. They should also have the proper hydration. Even though the water may be on the cool side, the air temp can be hot in an open setting with the sun beating down on them.
In being out on the water, have fun and keep safety in mind at each and every turn.