Sailing is great activity and it can be enjoyed with family and friends on the sea, lakes and lochs in Scotland. Before you join a boat, yacht, or a sailing course, it is a good idea to be aware of the boating essentials. For those that plan to buy and own their own boat, it is vital that you are aware of the safety equipment required. Check out this yachting checklist to discover the top essentials to bring aboard.
Life jacket
Even if everyone in your group knows how to swim, it’s still essential that you each have a life jacket. In fact, many locations and sailing providers require you to have life jackets on board.
Even if you’re a great swimmer, if you get caught in rough or high winds, paddling to shore can be incredibly difficult. Even without choppy waters, swimming to shore from the middle of the lake or another body of water can be tough. A life jacket will ensure that your arms and legs don’t give out while trying to stay afloat.
Additionally, if you were to get in a boating accident and lose consciousness, life jackets are designed to keep you on your back with your face in an upright position, therefore preventing you from drowning.
There should be enough life jackets for each person on the boat, and you need to ensure that each jacket is a proper fit for the person wearing it.
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Boating safety equipment
There are a number of other items tat are required by law on sailing boats.
Throwable Flotation Devices
In addition to life jackets, you also need at least one throwable flotation device. This can be a ring buoy, cushion or other device. Although only one is required by law, on each boat it’s best to have several on board, especially if you’re boating with a large group.
Fire Extinguisher
Boats under 26 feet need at least one B-1 fire extinguisher, while boats longer than 26 feet need two B-1 or one B-2 fire extinguishers. Before heading out on your yachting trip, make sure everyone knows how to operate the fire extinguisher.
Visual Signalling Device
Should you need help while boating, it’s very important to have a visual signalling device with you. Depending on where you live and the size of your vessel, there are different requirements for the type of signalling device you should have aboard. Examples of visual signalling devices include flares, strobe lights, and flags.
Sound Signaling Device
In addition to a visual signalling device, it’s also necessary to have a sound signalling device. These are vital for attracting help both day and night and are especially useful if you’re caught in the fog. Examples of sound signalling devices include fixed horns, portable horns, bells or whistles
More safety equipment
- First aid kit for small emergencies, cuts, scrapes, and seasickness
- Anchor with a line to hold your boat in while you wait to dock
- Cell phone and radio to call for help
- Heavy-duty flashlight
- Oars or paddles if the engine stops
- Bucket to remove water
- Snorkel mask
- Knife.
With these items handy, you’ll ensure the safety of everyone on the boat.
IDs and Documents
The last thing you want is your day on the boat to be spoiled because you forgot to bring the proper documentation with you. Without the proper documentation, an officer could give you a hefty fine. In some cases, you may even lose your boating licence. In addition to your licence for operating the boat, you’ll also need your current boat registration. If you don’t have a boating licence, you can always hire a captain to operate the boat.
Cleaning Supplies
Whether you own your boat or are just renting it, it’s very important that you bring cleaning supplies aboard in case of an accident. Additionally, you should clean your boat after each trip so that when you return, it’s looking as good as new. Here are some of the best boat cleaners for a spotless vessel.
Other Miscellaneous Items
In addition to all of the above, here are some other miscellaneous items you should bring with you when boating:
Sunscreen
We suggest packing a waterproof variety, as this will ensure you stay protected from the sun’s harmful rays even after taking a dip in the water.
A Change of Clothes
There’s nothing worse than sitting around in your wet swimsuit. After a fun day out in the sun, you’ll definitely want to change into a pair of dry clothes for the way home.
Dry Bag
This is essential for keeping your phone, wallet, car keys and other important items safe and dry.
Boating Checklist: Are You Ready for Your Day on the Boat?
Now that you’ve read this boating checklist, it’s time to get ready for a fun day out on the boat.
