Boat Insurance Tips: 5 Safety Rules
Regardless of whether you like to sail, cruise, fish or even dive there is a list of 5 absolute key safety rules that as a boat insurer it is essential we ask you to always follow (irrespective of your journey, experience or the size of your vessel).
Five simple rules for you to follow for every trip;
- Leave message: Tell someone exactly where you're headed before you travel
- Life Jackets – take the correct sized life jacket for each person on board.
- Stay in touch: Always carry not only one but two (for backup!) forms of communication device.
- Check the weather: review the latest marine weather forecast prior to going out (even on inland waterways as rain deluges or hard frosts create their own hazards). Then when aboard keep a regular check for any changes.
- Captains take responsibility! The captain (usually the owner in private boat insurance terms!) is ultimately the one who will be held legally responsible for the safety of those on the vessel. He/she must pro-actively prepare for any eventuality
It is easy for a simple pleasure trips to turn into tragedy if not careful, whilst there are a lot more precautions you can and should also take (see our other articles!) consistently following the above 5 rules is a sure way to immediately minimise the risk significantly.
Reviewed: 20/10/2011
Back to boat insurance articles