Risk Management Tip
Avoid operator error
With boating season at its peak, it’s the perfect time to revisit safety. A vast majority of boating accidents involve operator controllable factors, including operator error and poor or improper boat maintenance. Having the proper boat and yacht insurance in place and following a few simple safety tips will help recreational boaters stay safe and reduce the number of preventable accidents that occur each year.
- Understand and obey boating safety recommendations and navigational rules. In 2013, violations of navigation rules were the leading contributing factor in more than 200 accidents.
- Check the weather forecast. Promptly heed all weather and storm advisories.
- Register for a free MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) number, and have a VHF radio equipped with Digital Selective Calling (DSC). When in coastal and inshore waters, these preparations can instantly send digital distress alerts to the Coast Guard upon activation of the emergency button. To register for an MMSI, visit http://www.usps.org/php/mmsi/home.php.
- Use a carbon monoxide (CO) detector. All internal combustion engines emit CO. Symptoms are similar to seasickness or alcohol intoxication, and can affect you whether you are underway, moored or anchored.
- File a float plan. The U.S. Coast Guard recommends that you always tell a friend or family member where you plan to go and when you’ll be back. Make it a habit before leaving on any boat trip.
For more boating safety tips read this article by ACE Recreational Marine Insurance®
