Summer Safety Tips

By MSW -

Summer boating season is right around the corner! Make sure that safety is always on the forefront of your mind so you can have a fun time boating with your friends! Boat accidents can lead to serious injuries and are usually caused by the careless actions of the boat operator.  To prevent any damages or accidents caused by manually lowering your boating into the water, use Firstmate Controls system and remote control to safely lower your boat into the water and set sail! By following the safety tips in this blog, you and your crew will be on your way to enjoying a safer boating outing this summer! 


Always Wear Lifejackets

It is widely known that you should wear life jackets, but it is also known that many people choose not to wear one anyway. Everyone on board should wear a lifejacket that is US Coast Guard approved. Make sure to have enough for everyone and they fit properly. 

Know The Boat Laws

It is crucial to know and understand the boating laws for the body of water you are on. It is too common that people take a lax approach to boating safety, and this should not be the case. Just like driving your vehicle on the road, the boat operator needs to know the laws before driving the boat on the water. 

Watch the Weather

Inclement weather is one of the leading causes of boat accidents, especially if the operator isn’t aware of the impending bad weather. Do not go boating if there is bad weather coming. Ensure you check the weather before going out on the water. You do not want to get caught in the middle of a severe weather situation.

Never Drink and Boat

If you are the one operating the boat, do NOT drink! Under no circumstances should a person be intoxicated and driving a boat, this puts everyone aboard at risk. You can be arrested and charged with a DUI, just like if you would be driving a vehicle and driving.

Courteous To Fellow Boaters

When there are other boaters on the water, be aware and observant of your surroundings. You want to ensure the boat wake is low when you are near other boats, and swimmers, and close to the shore of the lake.

Always Be Prepared for The Worse Case Scenario 

You do not want the first time you practice overboard to be when one of your crew members accidentally goes overboard. As the boat operator, you need to be capable of acting fast! Before you go out on the boat, brief everyone that is planning on going aboard about boating safety and the rules of the boat. Discuss what the plan is in the event of someone going overboard so that everyone is on the same page. 
You should also have an emergency kit nearby if someone were to injure themselves. 

Comply with Your Boat Capacity

Every boat has a different maximum capacity rating. Check that capacity limit before loading your boat to prevent overloading the boat and potentially tipping your boat. 

We want you to have the best summer out boating with your friends and family! Safety is always the first step when getting ready to go boating. Before you take off, use your Firstmate Controls board and remote to easily control your boat lift to easily get out on the water.

Firstmate is dedicated to the design, manufacture, distribution, and servicing of the finest wireless electronic equipment for the recreational marine industry. We offer full manufacturing capability using state-of-the-art equipment. Complete systems can be installed for you or shipped ready for any application. We hope you always choose Firstmate Controls and Safety first!

Boat Lift Controls You Can Count On!

Firstmate Controls 
410 Century Business Drive
Labadie, MO 63055

Phone: (866) 570-9707



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