The Essential Safety Checklist for Safe Pontoon Boating
When thinking of pontoon boating, your mind must instantly go towards loud music, drinking, partying, and just having fun. That's because pontoon boats are ideal for carrying a large number of people while providing optimal space for moving around. However, to experience all the fun that pontoon boats have to offer while remaining safe, there are a few guidelines to follow.
It's easy to forget that pontoon boats are still boats that require you to have all of the pontoon boat safety precautions in check while in use.
Sure, there's no powerful motor on the back transforming it into a speed boat, but there are safety issues involved just the same. We want you to have a great time while out on the water, and because of this, we've created a safety checklist for pontoon boating.
After reading this checklist, you'll have peace of mind knowing that your entire family will have fun on the pontoon while staying safe. Continue reading below to find out more!
1. Preparing for Weather
Even though the pontoon is made for hanging out, it's still important to check with the local weather forecast before heading out on the water. This is something that you'll need to do from the week prior to going out up until the morning of. This is because weather conditions can change suddenly, and you want to ensure that you're going out on a good day.
To be sure that there are no sudden weather changes while on the boat, keep a weather radio on your boat at all times. You should also keep a good watch on the horizon at all times.
2. Checking the Equipment
Before heading out on the road, the first thing you'll want to do is check the tires on the trailer for good air pressure. Be sure you have your safety chains in place to secure the boat as well. And it's always a good idea to ensure that all of the trailer's lights are working and connected with your vehicle properly.
Aside from this list, you'll want to ensure that your pontoon boat has all of the following safety features:
- A flotation device for each individual on the boat
- Distress signals and fire extinguisher
- An anchor and a line
- A first aid kit
Most of these items are required by law for you to have on your boat, whether it's a pontoon boat or not.
3. Partying with Safety in Mind
Pontoon boats are a lot of fun, and it's easy to get carried away while spending the day on one. However, you must keep safety in mind at all times, even when planning a day of fun on the boat. Just as you need a designated driver when going out to the bars, you need a designated driver when going out partying on the pontoon.
As tempting as it may be to load in as many people as possible for an epic pontoon party, it's important that you don't go past the capacity.
4. Knowing the Water Rules
When the boat is driving through the water, make sure to tell all passengers to keep their arms and legs inside the boat at all times. Other boats passing by, people in the water, and other objects should be avoided by passengers while the boat is in motion. Be sure to abide by all speed limits in the area where you're boating.
And at the very least, don't hesitate to assign someone as the backup person to be in charge in case something were to happen to the driver. It's always a good idea to have a plan B.
5. Planning for Pets and Children
If you plan on bringing your children or pets out on the pontoon with you, then you'll want to bring the properly sized floatation devices for them as well. An adult size life jacket isn't going to help your little ones the way you need it to. And your pets should have animal life jackets for them.
You'll also want to have some type of shade to protect them from the sun when in need of a break. Bring lots of water as well so the little ones and your furry friends can stay hydrated!
6. Completing a Float Plan
Having a plan set into place with someone who's staying onshore is always important. Make sure you tell him or her where it is you'll be headed to and how long you plan on staying out there for. This person should also have the pontoon's details written down.
If anything were to happen while you are out on the sea, or if you were to not return, this person can contact the authorities and provide them with all the necessary information to help rescue you as quick as possible.
7. Having Boating and Maintenance Education
You should take a safe boating course before handling any kind of boat. This course will give you the confidence you need to provide yourself and all of your passengers with a safe boating experience. You'll also want to check in with your pontoon's dealer for keeping up with regular maintenance.
This knowledge mixed together is the formula for boating success!
Check Off Your Pontoon Boat Safety Tips!
When it's time to plan your next pontoon adventure, be sure to check off your pontoon boat safety tips from this list! Doing so is the best way to ensure a safe yet fun experience.
And when you're ready to start your pontoon shopping, click here to see what we have available for you!
