Things to Do When There’s a Storm While You’re Boating
Storm season presents a lot of challenges to boaters. This is why it’s best that you should be prepared and aware for what might come rather than getting caught by surprise without having any action plan. In this article, you will learn some tips on how to keep safe on a boat during a storm.
1. Make Your Plans Known by Other People
Make sure that someone actually knows your plan for boating that day. Whether it is a family member that’s not on the boat or yacht with you or maybe someone at the boat rental office, inform others about where you’re headed to. This is because in case there’s a storm and you’re not able to return, then they’ll be able to tell the authorities about your boating plans and after that, they will then search for you and provide you with assistance.
2. Make Sure to Wear Life Vest When You’re Boating
This tip is certainly common sense but only a few people take time to do it until it is too late. This is why it’s highly advised that you should take a moment in putting on your life vest or other PFD or personal flotation device. It can definitely save your life the moment the weather turns really bad and you’re separated from your boat. Aside from that, it’s also very important to bear in mind that it’s the law of most states that children aging six years old and below should wear an approved life vest for their age while the boat is underway.
3. Carefully Chech the Weather Before Leaving the Dock
Make sure that you’re able to check the weather during your planned boating day. Predicting storm might mean altering your boating plans a little. For example, instead of boating in the afternoon, it might be best that you boat during the morning as well are return to the shore well before the storm even hits.
4. Make Sure to Be Prepared
It’s very important that you know the things that you should do on a boat when there’s a storm. It’s not uncommon in most states to have a really fast-moving approach of storm without having any waring. If you’re caught out on the water, then some kind of survival kit may actually come very useful until you can finally make it back to the shore safe. Here are the most important things you can bring for boat survival:
- A backup power source
- A secondary means of communication in case the boat radio will become disabled
- First aid kit
- Flashlights
- Extra food and water to tide you over in case you’ll stay longer on the water
5. Head to the Shore
Take a look around and try to see if a storm is approaching. The moment you have already made the decision to head back, then your return route might be altered to make sure you’ll take the safest and quickest path. During a storm, make sure to take your time as well as guide your boat safely back to the shore or the boat rental Ibiza facility.