It is estimated that 236,000 people drown yearly, worldwide, making it the 3rd most common cause of 'unintentional injury death.' Drowning also accounts for 7% of all deaths relating to injuries.
That is why safety should be prioritized every time you or your loved ones are near any body of water. And if you plan to throw a yacht party anytime soon, be sure to put suitable safety measures in place.
It is okay to want to spend the day on the water with your loved ones. Just ensure that their wellbeing is your primary concern.
Here are several things you can do:
- Bring Good Quality Life Jackets
Life jackets are more than just devices that help you stay afloat. Most of these have been designed to turn up an unconscious person's face and, in some cases, prevent hypothermia.
So, make sure not to bring any old life jackets aboard, and get their quality and features approved by the seller or authority.
Also, it is essential to choose life jackets best fitted for each person's weight and height. Here are the considerations you should make regarding life jackets:
- Try them on before you buy them. First, make sure to fasten them and hold your arms over your head, pointing them straight up. Then, have a person pull the top of your arm opening to ensure that it is a snug fit.
- Both manual and auto inflatable life vests can help turn up the face of someone unconscious, but they do require maintenance regularly. Also, these types of life vests are not recommended for people under the age of sixteen.
You will find many life jackets if you look, but you should buy those most appropriate for your boating activities.
- Create A Boat Safety Kit
Emergencies are not always predictable, so you should always be prepared, no matter the situation. Therefore, your safety kit should be present on your boat, no matter its size. Here are some of the essential items to include in your safety kit:
- A first aid kit that is properly equipped is an integral part of any boat safety kit. Make sure you have been trained on how to use it in the case of a medical emergency or accident.
- A flashlight and extra batteries will help you if it is dark and act as a signal to others passing by that you need help if your boat stalls or you run out of fuel.
- A mirror or other reflective object can also be handy if you need to signal for help.
- A bucket is vital in case water enters the vessel. You will be able to collect it in the bucket and pour it out.
- Duct tape can help act as a temporary bandage over a hole if you have sprung a leak.
- Life jackets are included in the kit, and you should ensure that there are enough for everyone on board.
- Garbage bags can be used to protect items on the boat and act as ponchos if it rains.
- A waterproof whistle should be in your safety kit if you need to call out to other boats for help.
- A fire extinguisher should be on board in case of technical malfunctions and if the yacht catches on fire. You and all other passengers should be trained to operate it as well.
- Ropes can be handy, especially if you need to pull up someone who has gone overboard. It also helps to tie down loose items if the weather is extreme and secure your craft.
- Take A Course On Boat Safety
The USCG shared statistics in 2019 that showed how 70% of deaths on boats occurred because the operator had not received instructions on boating safety. This is why you should know what responsibilities and rules to follow before you get on board.
You can find many free courses online or take one from a certified educator as well.
- The Boat Should Not Be Overloaded
Make sure you are planning the number of guests according to your boat's capacity. You will also have to consider the equipment on board because your boat may become unbalanced if your boat is overloaded.
- Keep A Tab On Weather Forecasts
Of course, it’s best to go boating when the day is warm and sunny, but storms cannot always be predicted. To figure out if a storm is brewing, check for strong gusts of wind blowing and if the water is choppy.
Even if you are going on the water on a nice warm day, the water could be reflecting winter temperatures. You will need to know so that if your boat ends up capsizing, there is a backup plan in place to get dry and seek help. However, if the weather is predicted to be bad for boating, it would be best to postpone your party.
- Inspect For Dangerous Fumes
Once you have fuelled up your boat, ensure that you check whether you can smell fumes after opening the hatches. If you can, then do not start the engine.
If carbon monoxide accumulates in your boat, you and your guests may unexpectedly get knocked out. These are some of the possible places where gases and fumes can accumulate:
- Any enclosed space
- Nearby boats
- Canvas enclosures that are not adequately ventilated
- Exhaust outlets that have been blocked
- When your engine is running slowly, idling, or stopped completely
- Get Your Yacht Checked
Go to experts who can check whether your yacht meets safety standards. Because, even if you, your boat, and passengers are prepared, accidents can still occur.
- Follow Correct Docking Protocol
Depending on what type of boat you have, the current, and the wind, it can be challenging to dock. Ensure that your bumpers are in place as you approach the dock, so your craft does not get damaged. In addition, it will ensure that docking lines remain secured and decrease your speed.
If you find the wind blowing in the direction of the shore, then you can stop your boat two feet away from the dock so that the wind can gently pull it to place. Then, you can use lines to secure it. If the wind blows the opposite direction, pull into the dock at an angle between 20 to 30 degrees. This is so you can get around the wind. You can then secure the bowline.
- Follow Correct Anchoring Protocol
It is not enough to have a suitable anchor. You need to avoid the wind dragging your boat away. To do so, you may have to drop down two anchors so they form a V at the front of your ship so that it does not drift.
You can prevent your anchor from being lifted by the tide by dropping it in the water around 20-30 feet deep.
- Use Your Common Sense
Just like on the road, you should use common sense and stay alert. It would be best to go at a safe speed and ensure that your passengers are away from the boat's railings.
Conclusion
These ten steps will be sure to get your yacht ready for any party you want to throw. Just remember, no matter how much fun you are having, safety always comes first!
To find a yacht that meets all the safety standards, check out TheYachtMarket. We have boats of all types and sizes so that you feel spoiled for choice. Of course, you can always get in touch with us if you need help, and we will guide you with whatever you need.