BOATING SAFETY TIPS FOR SUMMER
SmartPlug was designed with the purpose of creating a new industry standard when it comes to boating safety. Whether you’re traveling or just enjoying leisure time on a boat, safety should always be the number one priority. With millions of boaters out on the open waters every day, practicing safe boating has never been more important. We’ve put together five important practices for you to keep in mind this boating season:
Be Weather-Wise
Regardless of the season, always be sure to keep a close eye on the weather and bring a radio on board with you. Before departure, check local weather conditions – TV and radio forecasts are a good source of information. If you notice darkening clouds, volatile or rough changing winds, or sudden drops in temperature, be proactive and get off the water.
Leave the Alcohol Onshore
Never use drugs or alcohol before or during boat operation. You would be surprised by the number of boating accidents caused by alcohol consumption. The probability of being involved in a boating accident doubles when alcohol is involved. In addition to the dangers it causes to you and everyone else on the water, it’s against the law! Keep the alcohol onshore to be sure you never run into a problem caused by alcohol consumption.
Make Proper Use of Lifejackets
The majority of drowning victims are the result of boaters not wearing their lifejackets. Before departure, make sure you have a lifejacket for each person on board and one throwable device for any boats 16 feet or longer. Don’t just keep the lifejackets stowed away onboard, WEAR THEM!
Boating with Kids
If you’re purchasing a boat for family use, consider a boat that has a cabin to offer refuge for children who need a nap or are getting too much sun. Make sure you buy children a lifejacket specific to their weight with a collar that will turn a child face up in the water. Children’s lifejackets must have a strong waist and crotch straps, a handle on the collar, and be bright in color for good visibility. In addition, it’s also a good idea to attach a plastic safety whistle to their lifejacket.
Updated Electrical Connection
While you may assume fires on the water don’t happen, fires are in fact a real danger for boaters. Fires on boats tend to occur most frequently around the engine. Battery wiring missed connections, and battery charging complications are the most common reason for boat fires. SmartPlug provides the best protection against loose connections and corrosion – the leading cause of shore power failure and fires. To ensure your safety onboard, make sure your boat’s electrical connection has a solid sleeve connection, weatherproof seals, and a multi-point locking system.
Website: https://smartplug.com/
Smart Plug Systems is a privately held manufacturing firm specializing in power delivery systems. It was founded in 2007 and is located in Seattle, WA. Its flagship product, the SmartPlug, is a patented device positioned to replace the current power delivery system for RV’s, Boats, and a variety of specialty vehicles and miscellaneous industrial applications.