ABC’s Vessel Safety Examiner Margaret Sherrod talks with boater John Reichmann during a routine safety check.
Do you think you don’t need reminders about the safe operation of your boat this year? Think again.
From avoiding a boating accident to preventing a tragic drowning, experts suggest some easy ways to make this a safe boating season on Lake Lanier.
“Everyone can use a refresher about their boating and marine recreational skills,” said Rhodes Lee, commander of America’s Boating Club Atlanta, formerly known as the US Sail and Power Squadron of Atlanta, based on Lake Lanier. “No matter how proficient you are, you may have new people on your boat, children or others who aren’t as skilled as you are. It never hurts to have a reminder for yourself and those you’re responsible for when you’re on your boat.”
Lee suggests that skippers take a couple of minutes to show people where the life jackets are stored and how to locate the fire extinguisher before heading out on the lake, particularly if you have new people on board.
“This one step can save crucial time if something happens on the boat,” he said. “It’s best to be prepared and never need a safety time than to lose time in an emergency.
“And make sure you have another adult who can operate your boat if something should happen to you as the driver,” he said.
Free service
Each summer, Lanier’s boating clubs – America’s Boating Club Atlanta and the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, Flotilla 29 – offer free vessel safety checks to help boaters be sure they have the correct equipment on board. Both groups offer special dates for these checks, announcing them on their websites. They set up programs with area marinas or come to a boat slip or dock upon request.
“The process takes about 45 minutes, and it’s the best 45 minutes you’ll spend in the boating season,” Lee said. “It’s also a good time to ask questions about updates to Georgia Boating Laws or for advice about boating.”
The skipper/owner is given a sticker for the boat that demonstrates they are properly equipped.
“When the DNR or the Corps of Engineers is patrolling this summer, they will see that you’ve been checked and this assures them that you are in compliance,” he said. “It’s totally free and can save you time on the water.”
What’s on your boat?
Do you have these items easily accessible on your boat? Depending on the length of your boat, you may need additional safety equipment or must meet additional requirements.
- Fire extinguishers – not more than 12 years old and gauge in the green
- Life preservers for each person aboard
- Your current boat registration and registration decals
- A Type IV throwable flotation
- A horn, whistle or bell
- Navigation lights
- Boats under 26 feet have an engine cutoff switch and the lanyard must be worn by the operator when underway the same as a PWC.
The Vessel Safety Check program is free and is designed to educate boaters about the minimum legal requirements plus additional information and suggested safety equipment to make you a safer boater.
Contact America’s Boating Club Atlanta, americasboatingclubatlanta.org, or the US Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 29, wow.uscgaux.info/i_want_a_vsc/index.php to learn more and schedule a free Vessel Safety Check.
Photo: courtesy Nancy Reichmann
