If you have recently purchased a new boat, odds are you cannot wait to get out on the water and take it for a spin. However, before you embark on your maiden voyage, here are four must-have items that every boater should acquire.
Maintenance Accessories
You may think that your new boat is in perfect working order, and you are probably right. But even the newest boats require regular maintenance, from cleaning the waterline to keeping up teak and other finishes. Ensure that you have the proper boat maintenance accessories so that you can always keep your boat in tip-top shape. Recommended accessories may include cleaners and brushes as well as products like motor oil to keep the engine running smoothly.
Life Jackets
This may seem obvious, but some boaters are not aware that they not only need to have a life jacket available for everyone on board but also enough jackets to accommodate the capacity of the boat. For example, if your boat can hold eight people, then you will need eight jackets on board at all times. Even if you typically only have a few passengers, you still need to obey this maritime law. If you don’t, you could be facing some real trouble if you get pulled over by the Coast Guard. In some states, simply having flotation devices, such as floating seat cushions, is also an adequate solution.
Fire Extinguisher and Flares
When boating, it is important to hope for the best but prepare for the worst. You should have a fire extinguisher within reach should an emergency occur. You should also be sure that everyone on your boat knows where the extinguisher is in case you are unable to grab it during an emergency. You should also have some flares that you can activate if you need assistance from other boaters or emergency personnel. This is particularly important if you plan to boat in less populated areas where you may not be spotted by other boaters when you need assistance.
A Medical Kit
Purchase a first aid kit, or make one yourself that you can keep on the boat in case of injury. If someone does get hurt, it could be some time before they are able to get back to shore for medical assistance.
Boating is a fun and exciting way to spend the summer days. Be sure to acquire these important items before you set out and you’ll have a great time on the water.