Warm weather means more opportunities to take your boat out on the water, and many boat owners enjoy including their children in their adventures. While you protect your investment with OC boat insurance, you need additional gear, supplies, and strategies to protect your family. Creating a safe and positive boating experience for children takes time and planning but is worth the effort.
Raising children as avid boaters provides many benefits. They can develop confidence and problem-solving skills while staying active and fit. Longer cruises expose them to different cultures and aquatic environments, providing enriching experiences for all ages.
Make wonderful memories by following these six basic safety guidelines.
1. Buy the Right Life Jackets
A proper-fitting life jacket is a key to keeping children safe. Look for USCG-approved jackets that match the child’s size and weight. Each jacket should have a safety strap to keep it from slipping off, as well as head flotation support.
2. Learn Emergency Response Skills
This is an essential step for helping kids become safe boaters. All parties on your boat should learn basic CPR and first aid as soon as they are able. Teach your kids how to radio for help if the adults on the vessel cannot do so. Practice safety and evacuation drills regularly to ensure all family members know how to respond in an emergency.
3. Childproof the Boat
Childproofing is especially important with toddlers and younger children. Keep switch panels, fuel containers, and fishing gear under lock and key, and keep the keys on you at all times. Place bumpers on sharp corners and safety netting around the rail.
4. Teach Children To Swim
Kids can start swimming lessons as infants, so there is no need to delay. Teaching them to be strong swimmers gives them more confidence in the water and control over their safety. Establish rules for swimming off the boat in different environments so they understand their limits.
5. Explain the Environment
Boating kids need to know the waters they are sailing. Explain that oceans and rivers present more hazards than swimming pools, such as strong currents and submerged objects. Introduce them to any wildlife they may encounter, and explain the rules for avoiding aggressive or venomous animals.
6. Seek Advice From Peers and Experts
Fellow boaters serve as an excellent resource. Find a community of experienced boaters who have taken their children on similar excursions and ask about their safety preparations. Your OC boat insurance provider may be able to provide additional suggestions based on previous client experiences, so feel free to ask for advice. Gathering as much information as possible ahead of time allows you and your kids to relax and have fun.
About Mariners Insurance
Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts and insure boats worldwide – in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals with all of your Boat Insurance needs – trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at (888) 402-5018 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.
