You learned the “rules of the road” before you sat behind the wheel of a car, and you should do the same before taking the helm. Just like studying to get your driver’s license, it is very important to have the boating information and certifications you need to be a safe boater before you hit the water. In fact, a number of states require powerboat operators to take a boater’s education course and carry a license or certificate proving successful course completion any time they’re on the water. By consulting a safe boating guide and obtaining the required certificates beforehand, you not only protect yourself and family but other boaters on the water.
The marine industry association, Discover Boating, has assembled a terrific guide to boating safety that covers a wide variety of topics from Weather Preparedness to Boating with Kids. Check it out at https://www.discoverboating.com/ownership/safety.
