Tips for Safe Boating

• Be aware of the weather. Sudden wind shifts, lightning flashes and choppy water all can mean a storm is brewing.
• Tell someone where you're going, who is with you, and how long you'll be away. Then check your boat, equipment, boat balance, engine and fuel supply before leaving.
• Ventilate after fueling. Open hatches, run blower, and (most important) carefully sniff for gasoline fumes in the fuel and engine areas before starting your engine
• Keep gear clean, especially if you are carrying hunting or fishing equipment. A loose fish hook can cause a lot of pain and ruin a great outing. Bring an extra length of line to secure boat or equipment.
• When changing seats in a small boat, stay low and near the center line. This can help prevent capsizing.

For Canoeing

• Keep your center of gravity low, and move slowly and deliberately.
• Transfer your weight slowly from shore to the bottom center of the canoe.
• Board your canoe directly into your paddling position whenever possible.
• For maximum control and stability always kneel in canoes, even though some canoes have seats.
• If you have capsized in a canoe, relax and make contact with your hands if you have not already done so. Stay upside-down long enough to extract feet and legs from the canoe. Then surface, maintaining contact with the canoe. Keep your eyes open.

For a good site for Kid's safety, click here.