Boating Safety: Remembering the rules on the water

HAMLIN, N.Y. (WROC) — And just like, the boating season is right around the corner here in Western New York. But, before you can enjoy the season, there are some things you have to check before heading out on the water. John Stevens, who is a trustee of Brockport Yacht Club, reminds boaters what to have on their checklist.

“When you’re getting ready for the beginning of the season, it’s making sure the boat is in shape, mechanically. It’s making sure that you have all your life preservers, all of your life jackets, flares, everything that’s supposed to be on the boat is there,” Stevens says.

Once a boater is ready to head out on the water, the next thing on their agenda is to make sure they have their essentials, such as a cell phone, life jacket, and sunscreen. These items may not seem important on the ground, but on the water, they can make all of the difference.

“You need to be in contact and specifically on the water, things can turn from great to not so great very quickly. So being able to have that stuff at your ready is very important,” Stevens says.

It’s also important for boaters to remember the rules and regulations while on the water.

“As a boat operator, it’s knowing who has the right of way at what time, So, whether it’s a sailboat or a powerboat and how they are being propelled makes a difference in who has the right of way and who has to give way,” Stevens says.

In the midst of all the preparation, Stevens reminds boaters what the whole point of going out on the water is, and why remembering these steps is important in order to achieve this goal.

“The goal is to go out and have a great time and come home safely and do it again so you need to take the steps necessary so you have everything at your disposal to do that,” Stevens says.

Click here if you are interested in a refresher boating course.

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