26
Florida, including Jupiter, Port St. Lucie and Haul-Over. If you plan on operating your boat in
any of these inlets google “boat accident _________” where the blank is filled with the name of
the inlet to see how many folks just like you have failed to safely navigate the area. There are a
multitude of YouTube videos showing people navigating inlets successfully and unsuccessfully.
This is no joke. It is deadly serious topic.
Careless Driving
Take the time to learn your boat and its handling characteristics in
all sea conditions. Do not take extreme angles or make sharp turns
(as seen in this photo). It can cause harm to occupants and cause
the boat to change its running surface which results in unpredictable
handling. In this photo for example, a turn is being performed so
sharp, that the sides of the hull are actually touching the water. This
may look “cool”, but boats are designed to ride on the bottom
surface, not the sides. This is never safe. You wouldn’t attempt to
drive a car on its side, so don’t do it in a boat.
Paying Attention
Regardless of sea conditions, weather and visibility, the most important thing you
must do when operating a boat is to pay attention. Obstacles, boats and even
aids to navigation can creep into the boat’s path if you aren’t watching where
you’re going. This video is an excellent example of what can happen when you’re
not paying attention:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_rONiiSrmc
.
BOATING SAFETY
Safety is an important aspect of boating. Proper operation and maintenance will ensure quality
performance and longevity of any boat. Remember, your safety and the safety of your
passengers is your responsibility.
Precautions
The following precautions will help you be a safe boater.
Study all operation and maintenance manuals for the equipment
on the boat before operation. Contact us with any questions or
concerns.
Leave a written float plan with a reliable person. It will [provide
valuable information if you have a mishap and do not return on
time. Upon returning notify the holder of the float plan to prevent
false alarms about your safety.
Never operate or allow anyone else to operate your boat while
under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Do not allow inexperienced persons to operate the boat without constant and direct
supervision.
Ensure that the person piloting your boat is familiar with basic boating techniques and
safe operation in the event of an emergency.
While boating, passengers should be settled in a safe position. Do not allow bow-riding,
transom or gunnel riding.
Keep your boat speed under control. Respect for other boaters and those onshore is not
only common courtesy, it’s the law. The operator of a boat is responsible for any injury or
