Home Safety Cold Water Safety

Cold Water Safety

During the offseason, the sunshine may feel warm but the water is life-threateningly cold. If you’re hardy enough to venture out, thoroughly check out your vessel’s seaworthiness, test all equipment, put on your life jacket, and follow these tips:

  1. Prepare and share Write down, email, or text a summary of your plans for the day to your marina, a family member, or a friend. Specify your boat’s name, type, length, color, and the location of its towing vehicle, if applicable, and include a photo of your boat as well. Be sure to share the time you plan on returning. You may also use the U.S. Coast Guard mobile app to file a float plan (the app also features an emergency assistance button): http://www.uscg.mil/mobile/.
  2. Carry a waterproof bag Include an emergency locator beacon (EPIRB), a portable marine VHF radio, cell phone, whistle, pocket flares, and a signal mirror. Keep the bag on you in case you end up overboard.
  3. Avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning Covers are more likely to stay on when the temperatures are chilly and cold engines produce more CO than warm — a very bad and potentially deadly combination. Wear extra layers of clothing, leave the covers off, maintain fresh air circulation, and run exhaust blowers extensively.
  4. Never boat while impaired Alcohol isn’t the only no-no. If you’ve got a cold or infection, check with your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of any prescription and/or over-the-counter medications — if you shouldn’t drive, you shouldn’t boat.

 

Cold water safety video

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