Safety Tips

Find everything you need to know about boating safety with these tips from the U.S. Coast Guard and other boating experts.

Ten Tips to Make Docking Easy and Safe

Follow these simple rules to alleviate the dread of docking.

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How to Safely Share Waterways

Always remember to consider the other users of the waterways.

By Staff posted Jul 19th, 2021

Safety is the paramount reason for the rules of the road and for courtesy on the water.
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Capt. Rick Murphy’s Best Advice

Always designate a sober skipper.

By Jeff Moag posted Jul 9th, 2021

Capt. Rick Murphy, the host of Sportsman Adventures, reminds everyone to take the pledge and avoid alcohol while boating.
Pulled Under

Ride along on a harrowing rescue in Destin Pass.

By Jeff Moag posted Jul 6th, 2021

A serious situation at Destin Pass results in multiple boaters in the water and requires a harrowing rescue by marine patrol officers.

Emergency Procedures

Avoiding, or Dealing with, Flooding

Central to enjoyable boating is keeping water out of the boat.
Don’t Become a Recreational-Boating Fatality Statistic

Stay safe; wear a life jacket
Boating Accident? Don’t Forget to Report!

Guidelines for filing an accident report.

Navigation

Playing by the Rules?

It’s time to brush up on your navigation knowledge
Safely Navigate Using Buoys

How to make sense of navigational aids.
Boat Safer By Slowing Down

Take time to stop and observe.

Seamanship

What Boaters Need to Know About the New Engine Cut-Off Switch Law

New law aims to reduce the problem of runaway boats and propeller strikes.
Safe Boating Tips for Waterfowl Hunters

A few simple precautions to dramatically reduce the risk of your next hunt.
I Learned About Boating From This: Ignoring The Signs

Ignoring boat engine gauges creates a safety hazard.

Docking and Mooring

Boat Anchoring Safety

How bungled anchor handling almost caused a tragedy.
An Anchor Drags and Puts Boaters in Peril

A first-person account of a harrowing boating experience.
Anchored for the Evening: Post a Lookout to Stay Safe

Posting an anchor watch will help keep you and your crew safe at night.

Safety Gear

Life Jacket Super Hero

Life jackets must be worn properly to save lives.
Why You Should Always Use Your Engine Cutoff Device

Simple and mechanical, it’s practically foolproof—if you’re wearing it.
Life Jacket Extras

There are many ways beyond flotation in which your life jacket can become your best friend.