Boating Safety: Maintaining Readiness on the Water

  • Published
  • By Hannah Gaither
  • 88 ABW Safety
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, OH --  

As we enter the 101 Critical Days of Summer, recreational boating offers a great opportunity for relaxation and enjoyment. However, boating accidents can degrade personnel availability and impact overall unit readiness, potentially leading to medical expenses and administrative burdens. Accidents are often caused by operator inexperience, alcohol or drug use, excessive speed, improper lookout, and failure to wear life jackets, all of which impact personnel safety and readiness.

Whether you own a boat or rent one from Outdoor Recreation, there are a few requirements that must be followed. The state of Ohio requires operators born after Jan. 1, 1982, who operate power-driven watercraft over 10 horsepower to provide proof of completion of an Ohio Division of Watercraft-approved proficiency exam or a course approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators when renting a boat or if stopped during a boating activity. Information on approved courses can be found through Outdoor Recreation or your unit safety office.

Here are some pre-departure safety items to consider:

  • Operator proficiency: Confirm familiarity with vessel operation and local boating regulations, and verify current certifications, such as boating safety course cards, are not expired.
  • Vessel inspection: Thoroughly inspect navigation lights, bilge pump, fuel levels and ventilation, ensuring there are no fuel fumes present before starting the engine.
  • Safety equipment: Ensure availability of life jackets for all passengers, flares, a first-aid kit and a fire extinguisher.
  • Float plan: Provide a responsible person with your intended route, estimated return time and vessel information.
  • Weather check: Monitor forecasts and avoid boating during storms, high winds or fog.
  • While on the water, safety remains paramount. Consider these practices:
  • Safe speed: Adjust speed based on conditions and traffic, and be aware of no-wake zones.
  • Proper lookout: Maintain constant awareness of other vessels, swimmers and hazards.
  • Alcohol and drug free: Operating any vessel under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prohibited and may result in disciplinary action.
  • Navigation rules: Adhere to established “rules of the road” and right-of-way guidelines, and become familiar with the Collision Regulations.
  • Communication: Carry and know how to use a marine radio in case of emergencies.
  • In the event of an emergency, follow these procedures:
  • Man overboard: Shout “Man overboard!” immediately, post a lookout, assign a spotter and approach cautiously.
  • Vessel distress: Activate distress signals such as an emergency position-indicating radio beacon, flares or a VHF “Mayday” call.
  • First aid: Be prepared to administer basic first aid for injuries such as cuts, burns and hypothermia.

Boating provides valuable recreational opportunities, but safety must remain the priority. Following these guidelines helps reduce risk, protect personnel and maintain readiness. For more information, visit U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety at https://www.uscgboating.org/ or the Ohio Department of Natural Resources at https://ohiodnr.gov/home.