Ten helpful and handy reminders with some of the mandatory and suggested items that you should keep on your boat. Get your boat ready for the inland boating season this summer.
The Importance of Push Button Signal Horn & Aerial Signal Kit. Having an air horn on board is a must in case there is an emergency, fog, or warning signal. You can have it stored anywhere in your boat. In case you are stranded on a large lake, it is also a good idea to keep an aerial signal kit such as a flare gun kit.
What about PDF's or Personal Flotation Device? Make sure you have enough PDF's on board so that every passenger has one readily available. Providing children with one that fits them correctly is also important. Also, you need to make sure that they are USCG Approved.
What about First Aid Kit? In case there is an emergency, having a first aid kit handy is a great idea. Keep on that has some of the basics such as: bandages, gauze, instant cold compress, alcohol cleaning pads, aspirin, antibiotic cream etc.
What about a Boat Anchor? If you plan on docking, going to the beach, or in an emergency situation, it's a must to have the correct size anchor. Having an anchor onboard for the rear of the boat and for the front is a good suggestion.
Tow Ropes. Keep an extra towrope with you incase you or someone else is stranded on the water. Someone will be able to tow you to shore in the event that you or someone else breaks down and needs a lift.
What about Fire Extinguisher? Keeping a fire extinguisher with you while you are on the water is a must. Get a quality A-B-C extinguisher to keep on your boat. You may never need to use it hopefully but if you do, then at least it's there.
Universal Boat Cushions. Keep a few brightly colored boat / life cushions on the boat. Use them to toss to anyone that happens to fall over, or needs a hand swimming back to the boat.
What about Boat Registration? Another thing You need to make sure of is that your registration is current and on board with you. You may be aware that the DNR can pull over anytime to check and see if your boat is legal.
What are Dock Lines? For docking your boat to your pier or to someone else's pier, you should keep a few dock lines. We suggest you have a few loops already tied into the rope to make it handy when you need different sizes.
What about Cell Phone or Radio? It's important that you have an onboard radio, cell phone or walkie-talkie with you. These would come in handy if someone wants to come out and join you for a ride or when you need to get a tow back.
Go ahead and enjoy a great and safe summer on your boat this year!
The function that the boat is going to utilized for is the primary deciding factor for the added equipment and accessories that you will need.
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