Living near the ocean without indulging in a day of carefree water sports seems nearly impossible. Some of the most dangerous and unexpected accidents can occur in the water though, so it is vital to go prepared.
Boating, jet skiing and even swimming are all examples of water sports that can lead to serious maritime injury. Before engaging in any of these activities, make sure you stock your safety kit with the essentials.
Water sports safety kit checklist
When you go out on the water, you need to anticipate any unfortunate incident that can occur. Your safety kit should contain essentials that help prevent accidents, as well as supplies that aid in survival if things go wrong. At the bare minimum, your kit should include:
- Life jackets
- First-aid supplies
- Flashlights
- Essential tools
- Bottled water
What to do if an accident occurs
As soon as an accident occurs in the water, alert a nearby lifeguard if possible. If you venture further out to sea, it may be necessary to use a VHF radio to call for help. Stop your boat and administer first aid to any injured passengers. Be aware that maritime injuries fall under a different category of law from most others, so you may need to contact a maritime lawyer after your accident.
Potentially fatal accidents can befall the unprepared at any time while out at sea. You should exercise utmost caution while in the water, aboard a boat and even while operating equipment such as jet skis. Your safety kit will help give you peace of mind so you can enjoy a fun afternoon in the sun.
