Protect yourself, your passengers, and your peace of mind.
Nothing says summer quite like a day on the water. Whether you’re cruising across the lake, casting a line with friends, or enjoying a relaxing sunset ride, boating is one of the best ways to make the most of the season. But before you leave the dock, it’s important to make safety your top priority.
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Always wear a life jacket. Your vessel should be properly always equipped with one life jacket per passenger.
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Check the weather before you go. Summer weather is unpredictable. Be sure to check the radar for any unexpected storms, high winds, or lightning. If anything is on the horizon, postpone your swim and boating experience.
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Complete a pre-departure safety check. Be sure you have:
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Enough fuel for your trip
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A working fire extinguisher
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Navigation lights
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Sound-producing devices such as a whistle or horn.
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First aid kit
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Emergency flotation devices
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Updated registration and required documentation.
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Stay alert and respect other boaters. Always maintain a proper lookout and operate at a safe speed. Watch for any other occupants in the water, such as swimmers, kayakers, or paddleboarders. Be sure to watch the water conditions and enjoy the water safely.
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Practice general water safety. Summer accidents can happen off the boat as well- whether that be on the shore or in the water. Never swim alone, supervise children closely, avoid diving into unfamiliar water, stay hydrated, and protect yourself from excessive sun exposure
Don’t forget about your boat insurance.
No one wants a preventable accident to get in the way of a summer full of memories. Ensure you have the right insurance coverage to avoid valuable financial protection if the unexpected happens. Boat insurance may help damage to your vessel, liability if someone is injured, theft, and certain weather-related losses, depending on your policy.
If you’ve recently purchased a new boat, upgraded equipment, or haven’t reviewed your policy in a while, summer is a great time to make sure your coverage still fits your needs.
Enjoy the water with confidence.
Summer is meant for making memories. By following basic boating safety practices and ensuring you have the right insurance protection, you can spend more time enjoying the water and less time worrying about what could go wrong.
If you’d like to review your current boat insurance or explore coverage options, our team is here to help. Contact us today at 703-435-3500 for a personalized policy review and enjoy your summer with greater confidence.
