Ice still covers several lakes across the region, but open water will get here eventually, and when it does, boating activity will increase.
This year, National Safe Boating Week begins Saturday and continues through May 24. As boating season approaches, the BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety offers these tips for boaters to share with their on board guests:
• Most newcomers to boating have no idea how a boat handles. Explain where the best and safest places are to sit during operation, how you'll handle wakes, and if it's a small boat, show them how a passenger's shifting weight can affect your boat's stability or exposure to waves.
• With your VHF radio turned on, tell your guests how to call for help on Channel 16. If you have a DSC-VHF radio, show them the red mayday button and explain how to activate it.
• Bring out the life jackets and encourage your passengers to wear one. If they are not worn, ensure they are easy to reach.
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• Point out the location of other important safety gear such as flares and fire extinguishers.
• Let them know what to do if someone falls overboard -- having a spotter is essential as is keeping a throwable device, also known as a Type IV personal flotation device (PFD), handy at all times.
