Safety always comes first, especially throughout the summer. With June being National Safety Month, and as local waterways and marina basins busy with recreational traffic, here are some quick safety pointers to keep in mind this season:

• A lifesaver. Life jackets are at the core of safe boating. The U.S. Coast Guard reports that roughly 75 percent of boating deaths are due to drowning, and that 80 percent of victims were not wearing a life jacket. Never leave the dock without first checking to see if there are life jackets for all passengers on-board. When wearing one, ensure that your jacket is of proper fit for your size and weight and that it is correctly fastened. 

• Get educated. Take a National Association of Boating Law Administrators safety course, be familiar with Maryland's boating laws and know the “Rules of the Road" for navigation.

• Be prepared. Check that your equipment is in good working order, review a pre-departure checklist to ensure you have everything you need on-board (including tool and first-aid kits), and always remember to file a float plan with someone you trust before setting out.

• Exercise good judgement. Respect your limits and keep within them to avoid injury. Do not drink and boat, as alcohol affects judgment, vision and coordination. Once on the water, use common sense. In a split second, a situation can arise or the weather can turn. If you notice darkening clouds, a sudden temperature drop or an increase in wind speed, play it safe and return to land.

For boaters, summer is an exciting and long-awaited time. Keep the fun in full swing for you and others by taking boating safety seriously.

Marketing Manager