Essential tips for boating safety in Wenatchee, WA

One of the perks of living in Wenatchee, WA is your easy access to popular boating destinations. Whether you’re kayaking on Lake Wenatchee or cruising in a speedboat along the Columbus River, boating is an activity that’s sure to usher in a whole lot of fun!

That said, it’s important to observe boating safety tips to prevent any untoward incidents. Take a look at these crucial precautions:

Take a water safety course

Before boating season begins, consider enrolling your family in a water safety course. It won’t take very long for everyone to get the proper training to prevent accidents—and respond appropriately to emergencies should they occur. The course will teach participants boating safety protocols, how to swim, boat navigation, and basic life support, among other things.

Check the weather

Never risk boating in bad weather. Whenever you have plans to go sailing, it’s best you check the weather forecast in the weeks and days leading up to your trip. Don’t rely on just one source—look at several websites and apps to crosscheck weather reports. Keep a close eye on the weather when you’re out in the water. If the waters turn turbulent, head back to shore immediately.

Inspect and maintain your boat

Be as meticulous with your boat as you are with your car. If you wouldn’t risk driving your car without ensuring its condition prior to heading out, take equal care to check your vessel. Are there any signs of damage to the hull? Is the engine working properly? Is your propeller in good condition or is it dinged up or missing one of its blades? If you wish, you even have the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary perform a 15-30 minute inspection of your boat.

Wear a lifejacket

By law, boats must have a life jacket for every passenger on board. And if you’re sailing with kids, they should wear one at all times. But what about adults? Many grownups who know how to swim often ditch their life jackets. However, should one of your passengers be knocked unconscious if your boat capsizes, a life jacket may very well save their life.

Avoid collisions

Boating season can get very busy. When you need to share the waters with many other boaters, the likelihood of collisions is higher. To avoid mishaps, always give approaching vessels a wide berth. Likewise, be on the lookout for other navigational hazards such as free-floating logs, swim platforms, and swimmers.

Never wade into the water alone

This rule again applies to both kids and adults. Even if you’re a strong swimmer, a cramp can hinder your ability to swim back to safety. That’s why you should make it a practice to always have someone else in the water with you. Assigning an onboard “spotter” or lifeguard is another good way to ensure there’s always someone on the lookout for signs of distress in the water.

Leave a float plan

In a nutshell, a float plan describes your boat, who is aboard it, your destination, when you set sail, and when you get back. If you fail to reach your destination or return as planned, the float plan makes it easier for authorities to locate your vessel.

And with that, you and your family can sail safely into the waters!

Are you looking for properties near popular boating destinations in Washington? Our team at Coldwell Banker Cascade Real Estate can help. Give us a call at 509.888.8887 or send an email to info(at)cbcascade(dotted)com.