The National Safe Boating Campaign
The National Safe Boating Campaign is a worldwide effort focused on responsible boating, encouraging boaters to always wear a life jacket while on the water. While it's tempting to not wear a life jacket while on the water, accidents happen in an instant. Boating safety advocates recommend that all boaters and passengers not only have a life jacket, but wear it at all times while boating. Make it a habit and always wear a life jacket.
Life Jacket Fit and Care
Life jackets are available for every boating activity! Modern life jackets are much more comfortable, lightweight and stylish than the bulky orange style most boaters know. Find out which style is best for your boating activity with this quiz: http://www.safeboatingcampaign.com/quiz/.
Make Sure It Fits
Not only is it important to wear a life jacket when boating, but you want to make sure it fits properly. You don't want your life jacket too large or too small; it should fit snug. Life jackets for adults do not work children. A few things to remember about life jackets:
- Make sure it is properly fastened and that all straps, buckles or zippers are secure.
- Hold your arms straight up over your head. Then ask a friend to grasp the tops of the arm openings and gently pull up. Ensure that it is not coming off!
Life Jacket Care
Caring for your life jacket is also important. Follow these tips below:
- Use your life jacket properly.
- Ensure there's no rips, waterlogging or mildew on your life jacket.
- Be sure to thoroughly dry your life jacket after use.
- Hand wash your life jacket in mild detergent.
- Store your life jacket in a dry place when you're not boating.
Refer to your life jacket's owner's manual for specific maintenance requirements.
Recreational Boating Statistics
The figures below are from the U.S. Coast Guard's 2016 Recreational Boating Statistics. This is the latest record of reported boating accidents in the U.S.
- 80% of boating deaths are due to drowning
- 83% of victims were NOT wearing a life jacket
- 2/3 of drowning victims are good swimmers
- 4,463 reported accidents in 2016 (a 7.3% increase from 2015)
- 701 reported deaths in 2016 (a 12% increase from 2015)
- 2,903 reported injuries in 2016 (an 11.1% increase from 2015)
- $49 million dollars in approximate damage to property as a result of recreational boating accidents
- 77% of deaths occurred on boats where the operator had no boating safety instruction
- 15% of deaths where the primary cause was known as alcohol as the leading factor
- 1 in 3 of all boating injuries occurred in boat operators over the age of 35
Wearing a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket is the simplest life-saving strategy for recreational boaters.
Summerset Boat Lifts hopes you have a safe and fun boating season! We are here to help ensure your boat lift is in proper working condition, keeping you and your boat safe. For all your Lake of the Ozarks boat lift service needs, give us a call at 573-348-5073. Our remote control systems for our lifts are another way to ensure safety for your and your family while boating. Plus, you can pick up life jackets and other boating accessories at our Camdenton location!
1165 Jeffries Road Osage Beach, MO 65065
573-348-5073
Email:info@summersetboatlifts.com
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