Community Newspaper for Blaine, Birch Bay and Semiahmoo, Washington

VIEWPOINT

By Andy Peterson, Blaine Harbor

Last week’s rescue of a capsized boater by the Plover ferry inspired me to write a few words on the virtue of lifejackets and basic boating safety. It’s ironic how the water that gives us so much pleasure can also potentially cause so much tragedy. As most of us know, it only takes a second to become unbalanced standing up in a small boat while pulling a crab pot over the side. Here are some suggestions for safe boating.

I urge parents and adults to set a good example for children, family and friends by wearing a reliable lifejacket. It’s the law to have one wearable type U.S Coast Guard approved lifejacket in good condition and readily accessible for each person aboard your boat.

A number of different types and styles are available. Spend a few bucks and buy a comfortable lifejacket that is appropriate for your needs and that you’ll feel comfortable wearing. Personally, I own a few that I wear for different activities. Don’t use your lifejackets for seat cushions; they only work if you wear them. I also want to remind boaters of the personal floatation legislation requiring children 12 years of age and younger to wear lifejackets in boats less than 19’ while underway or when a danger of drowning exists.

Do not overload your boat! Grandpa’s small aluminum boat may not handle four crab pots, two adults, three kids, an outboard motor, a tank of gas, the family dog and a cooler. Newer boats have a capacity plaque usually attached inside on the transom. It will tell you how much weight and engine horsepower the boat is safely able to handle. Remember to sit down in the boat and, if you have to move around, keep your body as low as possible. Be careful when pulling heavy things like crab pots over the side of the boat.
Make sure you have flares and a good plastic whistle to attract attention in an emergency. Small handheld flares are now available that can easily be attached to your lifejacket in a small pouch. Check the expiration date on your flares and make sure they are in good condition. Tie the whistle to your lifejacket. Blowing a whistle uses a lot less energy than yelling. If you can breathe, you can whistle.

You’ll also need a way to get water out of the boat. Excess water rolling around inside the boat will upset stability and increase the risk of capsize. Make an inexpensive bailer by cutting the bottom out of a clean bleach jug or gallon milk jug (leave the top on) and tie this in the boat.

If you do capsize and the boat is floating, stay with the boat! The shore may look close but in reality may be further than you think. Cold water affects judgment and ability to make sound decisions. Get on top of the boat and hoist your body out of the water. Not only will this increase your chance of being seen, but it will help fight hypothermia. Water robs body heat and energy needed for survival.

Don’t forget to tell someone where you are going and when you’ll be back. This gives the searchers a place to start looking if something happens. Use good judgment and keep an eye on the weather. Don’t get caught out in a blow trying to pick your crab pots far from home. Be conscious of your limits.

This is by no means a comprehensive list of boating safety requirements and regulations. The Blaine Harbor Office at 235 Marine Drive has boating safety literature and a complete list of US Coast Guard required safety items.

You might also consider taking an approved boating class from the US Power Squadron or Coast Guard Auxiliary. Novice and experienced boaters can both benefit from these programs. The message is simple: Wear your lifejacket and educate yourself to be a safe boater.