Whether you are a serious angler or a weekend cruiser, as an avid boater there are certain items you must always have on your boat regardless of how long you are heading out for. While there are certain things that the law requires you to keep onboard, there are several others that come in handy during emergencies and in other testing circumstances.
Tool Kit
You never know when the need for minor repair arises while you are out on your boat and for those times, a tool kit becomes quite necessary. If you are doing a lot of offshore boating, this becomes even more important. Keep your tool kit equipped with basic tools such as a powerful flashlight, screwdriver, wrench, and duct tape. A sharp boating knife should also be included in your tool kit for when you need to cut through tangled lines and clear your propeller from debris.
First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is a vital safety item that should always be well-stocked and present onboard. Minor accidents can occur at anytime while you are out on your boat, but sometimes serious injuries can take place as well. Make sure to keep your first aid kit equipped with essential items such as antiseptic wipes, cold packs, different sized bandages, gauze pads, adhesive tape, and pain relievers.
Life Jackets & Floatation Devices
Life jackets and floatation devices are must-have items no matter what type of a boat you may have. Every passenger on the boat is required to have a Coast Guard approved life jacket, so make sure you don’t lapse on this requirement. In case of an emergency, especially if you have children onboard, the first thing you need to do is ensure all passengers immediately put on their life jackets.
Floating devices also come in handy during emergencies when you may have an individual in the water facing trouble.
GPS Device
Having a GPS device on your boat can help you in several ways. For an angler, it’s the ideal fish finder but aside from that, it can help a boater identify rocks and other obstacles under the surface of the water that you may want to steer away from.
Water and Food Provisions
Even if you have meals and a cooler packed for your trip ahead, it is always smart to carry an extra supply of water and snacks that can come in handy if you are stuck onboard longer than planned. Sometimes the sun can dehydrate you sooner than expected and having an additional case of water can really help. Stocking up on high energy foods such as protein bars, trail mix and nuts can help keep you energized as well.
To learn more about boating safety and find the right vessel for yourself, talk to our crew at Great Lakes Yacht Sales and visit our Kenosha Marina to see our inventory and service for yourself!
