Boating Safety Guide: Staying Safe on the Water
You learned the "rules of the road" before you sat behind the wheel of a car, and you should do the same before taking the helm. Just like studying to get your driver’s license, it is very important to have the boating information and certifications you need to be a safe boater before you hit the water.
In fact, a number of states require powerboat operators to take a boater’s education course and carry a license or certificate proving successful course completion any time they're on the water. By consulting our safe boating guide and obtaining the required certificates beforehand, you not only protect yourself and family but other boaters on the water.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before you leave the dock, you'll need to ensure you have the right safety gear and equipment on your boat, as required by regulation. Our Boat Safety Checklist & Safety Equipment list can help.
- Follow our pre-departure checklist to double check that you have everything you need for a day on the water.
- You can have a safe vessel year round by utilizing our semi-annual maintenance guide.
Headline
Latest Wave of Boating News & Resources
Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and Labor Day are the three busiest boating weekends of the year. Boaters should expect extra crowded waterways and busy launch ramps. For a fun, stress-free boating experience, follow these five safety tips.
Comparing inboard vs. outboard motor options is an important decision for any prospective boat buyer. Many family boats, including bowriders, deck boats and cabin cruisers, are offered with a choice of outboard or inboard power. When both options are available, is there a better choice between the two?
Get ready for the unofficial kickoff to summer with these five Memorial Day boating tips that will ensure you and your crew have a safe, fun weekend on the water. Follow these 'Dos' and 'Don'ts' for navigating crowded boat ramps and using basic boating etiquette.