We understand how important US vessel documentation is. After all, that’s what we built our site for. However, the importance of vessel documentation pales in comparison to the importance of being safe on the water. If you come to our site, you’ll find everything that you need to make sure that your vessel is on the water legally. However, it’s more critical that when your vessel is out on the water, that you stay safe. Below are some tips for staying safe on the water, whether you’re there in a business or recreational capacity.
More than Just Having Personal Flotation Devices
We’ve all been on the vessel with someone who says they have a “personal flotation device for everyone.” Then, when you ask where they are, you’re told they’re in a pile underneath one of the seats. While there may be a life jacket for everyone, they might not all fit. That’s why it’s so important to make sure that not only do you have life jackets, but you have life jackets that actually fit everyone who is on the vessel right now.
How to Make sure your Life Jacket Fits
First off, you have to be certain that you have a life jacket for different age groups. Not having a child’s life jacket on board is fine, if no one on your vessel is a child. However, if there are going to be children present, an adult life jacket won’t keep them safe. So, a life jacket has to fit your weight and size. On top of that, you have to make sure that the jacket can be properly fastened, too. That doesn’t just mean that one strap works and the rest of it just hangs off of your body. Rather, it means that you’ve eliminated excess room and that the jacket won’t go up over your face. Then, and only then, do you have a personal flotation device for everyone on board.
US Vessel Documentation and More
It goes without saying that no one who drinks alcohol should go to the helm of your vessel. Make sure to have plenty of water on the vessel, not just as an alternative to alcohol, but rather to keep everyone hydrated. If the weather takes a turn for the worse, even a bit, it’s probably for the best to head into shore. For more about documentation, visit our site or call (866) 981-8783.