Safety First: Must-Follow Guidelines for a Secure Speed Boating Experience This Summer
Don’t let an avoidable accident ruin your boating fun this summer!
If you’ve ever been on a boat, you know how exhilarating the feel of the wind in your hair can be when you’re speeding along the water. The adrenaline that comes with speed boating is thrilling and addictive, leading lots of people in Kelowna to rent a boat to experience, especially on the boat-iful Okanagan Lake with its eye-catching scenery and vast space to explore.
Like with any entertainment involving motor vehicles, though, your safety is paramount. We have highly capable techs who will give you the full safety run-down during all your Kelowna Marina boat rentals, but when it comes to safety, preparation is key! Here are some guidelines to keep in mind to make your speed boating experience safe and fun.
Wear a Lifejacket! Nearly 80% of victims in boating-related drownings were not wearing one. In the event of an emergency, having a personal flotation device (PDF) on board but not worn can significantly increase your risk of drowning, regardless of how close you are to shore or your swimming abilities because of cold-water shock.
Don’t Drive Impaired! Alcohol and drugs can be enjoyable recreational activities, but just like drinking and driving on the road is illegal, so is drinking and driving on the water. Nearly 40% of boating deaths involved alcohol consumption, so don’t give in to pier pressure and save the drink for after your boating experience.
Take a Boating Course! A Pleasure Craft Operator Card is required to operate a boat, but if you’re not already certified, we supply you with a temporary boater’s license when you rent with Downtown Marina. However, familiarizing yourself with boating operations and safety procedures beforehand can be extra helpful for fast driving.
Mind the Weather! Certain water and weather conditions can make boating very dangerous – lightning, fog, and high wind speeds can all cause accidents on the water. Remember to check the local Kelowna marine forecast before boating.
Come Prepared! All our boats are equipped with up-to-date marine safety equipment like fire extinguishers and sound-signaling devices, so you don’t have to worry about the big stuff, but bringing along items like drinking water, sunscreen, snacks, dry clothing, and waterproof matches can help keep you comfortable with peace of mind.
The Canadian Red Cross has a very useful Pre-Departure Checklist you can use to ensure that you’re fully prepared before heading out on the water. Remember, safety is no joke, but preparing in advance will help alleviate your own anxieties and reduce the likelihood that you’ll have an accident so you can focus on your ferry-tale speed boating experience – enjoying that wind in your hair.
It pays to be prepared! Before heading out on the water, check out some more of our Okanagan boat rental safety tips: Boat Safety Checklist.
Kelowna’s Downtown Marina loves the lake life and wants its passion to be accessible to all. Located in the heart of downtown, getting on the lake has never been more convenient. Visit kelownadowntownmarina.com or stop by to rent your very own boat for an hour, a day, or a week.