Whether you are a novice mariner, an expert angler, or a recreational boater, it’s always a good idea to continue learning and adopting better safety measures and smarter skills for while you are out in the water.
Here are the top 5 boating resources to use before you head out for your next boat day in Wellington:
The Weather Forecast
Check the news, your phone apps, or the radio because knowing what kind of weather you will be facing is a smart idea and probably something you do every time you head out – especially if your usual boating spots are in Florida where it doesn’t take more than an hour for the sunshine to transform into heavy rain!
You can also check the weather conditions and tide predictions at weather buoys close to where you will be boating.
Study Documentation Requirements
You must check your state’s requirements pertaining to your vessel and determine what kind of documentation you need to be out in the water. You can check with your Coast Guard, boat dealer or official marine organizations to help you with finding the information or guiding you to additional resources that can help.
Boat registration, boater education card and personal identifications are some of the few documents that you are always required to have onboard.
The Required Safety Gear
Safety gear is one of the most essential items for your boat. These items should include Coast Guard mandated gear, which you can double-check anytime you are unsure, as well as other safety equipment that will help ensure every boating trip you take goes smooth and secure. If you aren’t certain about what you need, you can check with resources shared by the USCG.
Lifejackets and wearable personal flotation devices are essential to have on board. Throwable floatation devices, visual and sound signaling devices, and fire extinguishers are also important safety gear that you need to have on your vessel.
Mastering Your Navigational Skills
Although it takes years to become a marine navigational expert, it doesn’t take too long to learn the basics and pick up some of the important aspects of navigating a boat. You can choose between electronic navigation or traditional marine navigation and learn to use the appropriate equipment required for your preferred method.
First Aid
Whether you are choosing to be out in the water for a few hours or a few days, having a first aid kit is an important resource to have onboard for medical emergencies and minor accidents. Sunblock, insect repellant and antihistamine are always good to keep in stock, but antiseptic ointments, adhesive bandages, pain, and fever reducers as well sterile gauze pads are some of the basic first aid items to keep on your boat.
If you are looking for boats for sale in Wellington, talk to us at Mariner Marine and from your very own vessel to all the resources you will require for it – we have it all!
