The most important rule of boating
Growing up, we were on the boat at least every weekend. And, sometimes we even went out during the week. We would alternate between the fishing boat and the skiing boat. There were so many boating activities to be done: skiing, fishing, wake boarding, kneeboarding and occasionally tubing.
There was always one thing that was consistent. Lifejackets.
They were always checked for size and quantity before we were allowed to board the boat (once we were legally allowed to not wear one all the time). If we weren’t of legal age to not wear one, we had to have it on before we even got on the boat.
Every year when the new season rolled around, we made sure they were up to standard. They changed so much even during the course of my youth.
(Check out that zinc oxide on my nose. Wouldn’t want a sunburn!)
When our kids have joined us or family members on boats, I always check the girls’ lifejackets and make sure that there are enough lifejackets for us and any other adults on board. It’s been engrained in me, always Make Proper Use of Lifejackets!
DiscoverBoating.com wants to ask: Did you know that the majority of drowning victims are the result of boaters not wearing their lifejackets? Make sure that your family and friends aren’t part of this statistic by assigning and fitting each member of your onboard team with a life jacket prior to departure.
A couple years ago, our little N wanted to go kayaking in her own boat with my aunt. N had her lifejacket properly worn, and my aunt had hers with her in the kayak as the law required.
Next month, when we join our Sunday school class on the lake, the first thing we will ask is to see the lifejackets and make sure that we are abiding by ALL boating laws.
What is your favorite way to go boating?
We LOVE to kayak! Red hasn’t been in a body of water like this to need a lifejacket yet, but we have plenty at the lakehouse for use!
I’m so scared of being in the water with my kids. I had an experience when I was little where I went overboard without a best on and it never bothered me until I had my own kids. I won’t let them swim without them. I’ve become that mom. But I’d rather be safe than sorry.
My son has been invited by friends to go boating and before hes goes I’ll be sure to talk to the parents (and my son) about life-jackets. A good time can turn tragic easily, proper boating safety is a must!
I grew up with lakes and while we don’t go much, I totally want to get life jackets for my boys. I’m a big believer in boating safety from my experiences. I hate that I’m not a stronger swimmer but I won’t drown..