U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary - Reno Flotilla 11-03

Good Boating Habits

• Set an example for others to follow.  Whether you are boating with friends or family, you should always set the right example for others to follow.
• Own/use the right boat for you.  Boat designs varied widely.  Make sure that you have the right boat for the purpose you have in mind.
• Know how to use your safety equipment.  Every person on board should wear a life jacket, and in many cases, it is required.  Beyond life jackets, you should also have and know how to use your signaling devices, fire extinguishers, dewatering devices.
• Have the right equipment for your boat, and know how to use it.  There are legal considerations in addition to making sure you have the right equipment on your boat to enjoy your boating experience.  There's nothing worse than setting expectations for your crew and guests, and then not being able to have a good time because you were not prepared.

Continued...

• Know how to handle your boat.  Boats do not drive like a car.  A safe boating class will help prepare you for the skills necessary to handle your boat safely - for you, your crew, and for the other boaters around you.
• Know the rules of the road.  Just like on the roadway, you are expected to know how to approach other boats on the water, as well as how to read and follow directions provided by Aids to Navigation.
• Navigation is vital on small lakes or the ocean.  You may not be trying to find a small island in the middle of the South Pacific, but understanding navigation will help you get to where you are going, and back home again safely.
• Watch and understand the weather.  Nothing can make a good day turn miserable than ending up in a squall.
• If you trailer, know how to drive, launch and load like a pro.
• Don't drink and boat.  'Nuf said.