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Boating Safety
Capsizing
• If others were on board, try to locate them, make sure that
they are conscious and they can swim.
• If possible, access lifejackets (PFDs), pass them out to
everyone, and put them on.
• STAY WITH THE BOAT! A boat will usually float even if
there is major hull damage. Rescuers can spot a boat much
easier than a head bobbing in the water.
• Signal or call for help.
• Immersion in water speeds the loss of body heat and can
lead to hypothermia (the abnormal lowering of internal
body temperature).
Staying Afloat
• Remain calm. Do not thrash about or try to remove clothing
or footwear. This leads to exhaustion and increases the loss
of air that may keep you afloat.
• Keep your lifejacket (PFD) on.
• Keep your knees bent.
• Float on your back and paddle slowly to safety.
Collisions
• Immediately account for all passengers.
• Check for injuries.
• If any person is in the water make sure they have proper
flotation devices.
• Assess the hull for damage.
• Activate the bilge pump(s) to reduce any flooding.
• Try to operate the boat to keep the damaged area above
water.
• If necessary, call or signal for assistance.
• STAY WITH THE BOAT!
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