Boating safety tips

The following safety tips are courtesy of the Washington boating safety officers association.

Be weather wise.
Sudden wind shifts, lightning flashes and choppy water all can mean a storm is brewing. Bring a portable radio to check weather reports.

Bring extra gear you may need.
A flashlight, extra batteries, matches, a map of where you are, flares, sun tan lotion, first aid kit, extra sunglasses. Put those that need to be protected in a watertight pouch or a container that floats.

Tell someone where you�re going, who is with you, and how long you�ll be away. Then check your boat, equipment, boat balance, engine and fuel supply before leaving.

Ventilate after fueling.
Open hatches, run blower, and most important, carefully sniff for gasoline fumes in the fuel and engine areas before starting your engine.

Stay dry and warm.
Wear several layers of light clothing; bring rainproof covering. Never wear hip waders in a small boat.

Keep fishing and hunting gear clean and well packed.
A loose fish hook can cause a lot of pain and ruin a great outing. Bring an extra length of line.

Anchor from bow, not stern.
Use anchor line length at least five times longer than water depth.

Take a safe boating course.
As an extra benefit, you may earn lower boat insurance costs.