Emergency Preparedness Tips and Checklist for Boaters

Flotation device on boat Flotation device on boat

On the shore or out on the water, being prepared to handle an emergency situation is one of the most critical parts of boating safety. Do you know what to do and have what you need on board to respond if your boat is sinking, catches fire, or stops running? What if one of your passengers experiences an emergency?

The following are some tips to help minimize damage to your vessel and help preserve the safety of your passengers should something go wrong on one of your boating adventures.

Have a Safety Preparedness Kit for Your Boat

At a minimum, make sure that safety and other related-equipment are on your vessel and in good working condition before each outing. U.S. Coast Guard boating safety requirements include the following items:

  • Working navigational lights.
  • Map/chart of the waters you are navigating.
  • Personal floatation devices (PFDs) for each passenger.
  • Flotation device that can be thrown into water (cushion, ring, etc.).
  • Operational, fully charged fire extinguisher (charge it before you depart).
  • Flares.
  • First aid kit.
  • Paddle, especially on a small vessel.
  • Lines/ropes for being towed or pulled back to shore.
  • Signaling device (horn, mirror, portable light, etc.).
  • Communication device to contact outside assistance, if necessary, such as a VHF radio (recommended) or cell phone.

Other Important Considerations for Boating Emergency Preparedness

A boating emergency can happen anytime, anywhere — and does not only refer to a problem with your vessel, but also to any dangerous situation involving one of your passengers. It is key to remain aware of your situation and assess your risk before leaving shore and during your trip:

  • Monitor the weather before and during your outing.
  • Know the water temperature — this can help you determine how long you or your passengers can safely remain in the water while waiting for help or swimming to shore.
  • File a float plan with a friend, relative and/or the U.S. Coast Guard.

It is also important NOT to signal for help if you do not need it. The U.S. Coast Guard will only come out to your aid if someone’s life is in danger. You should only send out a Mayday call if there is risk of imminent peril, such as if your boat is sinking or has caught fire, in which case, remember:

  • Always use your VHF radio to broadcast a Mayday — the U.S. Coast Guard monitors VHF frequencies (typically Channel 16) and can identify your position from the radio signal.
  • Anyone within range that has their VHF radio turned on should be able to hear your Mayday call and may come to your aid if they are in the vicinity.
  • You must be able to provide your position (either GPS coordinates or positional landmarks), name of your vessel, and the type of emergency you are experiencing.

If your boat is still operable during an emergency, be sure to monitor the engine’s condition via the helm station gauges, while noting any irregularities in its performance. If your boat becomes inoperable at any point, be sure to follow your emergency response plan.

Remember, following safe boating practices is only one part of staying safe out on the water. You must also be prepared to respond to any emergency that might occur on your outings. Knowing what to do before and during your trip to help prevent an emergency, as well as being equipped to handle a situation should one occur, is key to making sure your vessel and everyone on board returns to shore safely after every trip.