The NOAA National Marine Sanctuaries, in collaboration with BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water, TowBoatUS Ventura and the U.S. Coast Guard, has released a video with tips to help you navigate protected waters safely. There are more than 600,000 square miles of marine sanctuaries in the U.S., and the nine-minute video addresses what to do before, during and after your trip.
Eight tips they offer include:
- 1. Check the weather when you are planning a trip, check the weather when you depart, and check the weather during the trip.
- 2. Know the proper size anchor and ground tackle for your boat and the bottom type, and know how to use it.
- 3. Ensure you have a working VHF radio aboard, preferably with digital selective calling which can speed a rescue or request for assistance.
- 4. Have life jackets for all aboard.
- 5. Make a float plan and be sure to leave it with a trusted relative or friend who knows what time you should be checking in upon your return.
- 6. Before you go, take a boating safety course.
- 7. Due to the distance involved as well as potential high towing costs, have an on-water recreational boat towing plan.
- 8. As a final backstop, ensure your boat insurance policy pays for the costs of salvage as well as claims for cleanup or environmental damage due to the accidental discharge of oil or fuel from your vessel.
Photo courtesy of BoatUS.
