Recreational boating is different from other outdoor activities. There is something exhilarating about being out on the open water with people you enjoy. The sun on the water, the freedom to go anywhere and good company can all lead to a very enjoyable day.
People often spend months getting ready for summer activities to look their best while at the beach or out on a boat. Most people don’t want to hide their bathing suits and bodies under life jackets or personal floatation devices (PFDs). Not only are PFDs usually brightly colored, but they are bulky, effectively erasing all of the effort people make to look fit or trim.
Whether you tend to hit the waters as a passenger for a day cruise or the person operating the boat, insisting that everyone wears a PFD is probably a smart move.
You can’t predict when an accident will occur
Most adults would likely readily agree that having children wear PFDs at all times while on boats is a good decision. What they may not agree on is that adults should also wear PFDs for safety purposes.
They might assume that adults would notice the signs of imminent danger better than children would, which would allow them to put on a safety vest. They made also assume that adults are better swimmers. In reality, even the best swimmer could potentially drown if they fall out of the boat too far from shore or suffering injury.
A sudden, rogue wave, an unexpected maneuver or a slip of the foot could all lead to someone falling off the side of a boat, possibly with no one noticing for several minutes. If that person gets hurt or passes out, they could drown without a PFD. Every year, almost four out of five boating deaths are a result of drowning.
Safety should be a top priority out on the water
While people may grumble about your insistence regarding PFDs, everyone will be safer during your recreational boating adventures if they follow your advice. Recognizing and avoiding the biggest risk factors on the water can help you and your passengers stay safer on all kinds of vessels.
