Boating Safety 101: 5 Tips Every Boater Should Know
Bridge Marina is dedicated to providing a safe, fun boating experience all season long. In honor of Boating Safety Week, created by the National Boating Safety Council, we’re sharing 5 boating safety tips as we kick off the 2024 boating season.
5 Boating Safety Tips for the Start of the 2024 Season:
1. Wear Your Life Jacket
One of the simplest and most effective ways to ensure the safety of you and your passengers is to have enough US Coast Guard approved, properly fitted life jackets in good condition aboard. We recommend always wearing a life jacket while boating, but accidents on the water can happen suddenly, so it is important that your guests know where they can find easily accessible life jackets if they are not already wearing one.
Just some of the other important safety gear to have onboard include the emergency engine cutoff switch, fire extinguisher, visual distress signals, a functioning radio, and PFDs.
2. Designate a Sober Skipper
Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not only illegal, but also extremely dangerous. Impaired judgment and coordination increase the likelihood of accidents and injuries on the water. Always designate a sober skipper who will abstain from alcohol and drugs for the duration of the boating trip. Encourage responsible alcohol consumption among passengers and provide non-alcoholic beverage options to stay hydrated.
Bridge Marina promotes safe and sober boating with the Sober Skipper Program, in partnership with Sea Tow Foundation. Learn more in the video below.
3. Get Your New Jersey Boating Safety Certificate and Take an On-Water Boating Lesson
New Jersey boating law requires boaters to have their NJ Boating Safety Certificate in order to operate a boat or PWC. Bridge Marina proudly holds the NJ Boating Safety Certificate Course at our marina on Lake Hopatcong and at select local businesses in Highlands. Get started on your boating journey with us and learn from the leaders in boating hospitality how to navigate the waters safely.
We also offer hands-on, on-water boating lessons in partnership with the National Safe Boating Council and BoatUS Foundation. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or just getting your sea legs, our multi-level course options will keep you engaged and teach you something new. We also hold group and private boating lessons on your boat or ours to help you become a better, more confident boater.
4. Check the Weather Forecast and Conditions
Before departing, and while out on the water, keep an eye on the weather forecast in your area. Sudden storms and high winds can lead to boating safety risks, especially to newer boaters. Familiarize yourself with the signs of approaching storms, such as drops in temperature or a quickly darkening sky, and always be prepared to end your trip early in the event of these warnings.
Lake Hopatcong boaters can check out our live Lake Hopatcong webcam, which offers a real-time peek on local conditions 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For Sandy Hook Bay boaters, our tide chart offers a glimpse into conditions there.
5. Keep Your Boat in Top Condition
If you are a boat owner, be sure your boat is ready for anything by inspecting it regularly and having repairs and maintenance performed by a trusted marine service professional. Be on the lookout for any leaks, cracks, or other signs of damage before heading out. It is important to note any issues early on and have them taken care of as soon as possible to prevent risks on the water.
Bridge Marina Boating Club members and boat rental guests at both of our Lake Hopatcong and Highlands locations are granted peace of mind with their boat’s condition, as our award-winning and trustworthy service department handles all maintenance and repairs on our fleet.
Stay Safe on the Water This Summer
At Bridge Marina, safety is our top priority. We hope these 5 boating safety tips will help you and your passengers stay safe on the water. Let’s make this season a memorable one for all the right reasons – with safe, fun boating!
Next Steps for Safer Boating
We can help you get started on your boating journey with our boater education programs, from getting your New Jersey Boating Safety Certificate to hands-on, on-water boating lessons in partnership with BoatUS Foundation and the National Safe Boating Council. We invite you to learn to boat with us!
Looking for More Boating Safety Tips?
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and LinkedIn for video boating tips and important updates throughout the season. Or visit the National Safe Boating Council website here to stay up-to-date on boating safety regulations!
You can also reach out to our team by filling out this quick contact form or calling us at (973) 663-1976.
We look forward to a safe, fun 2024 boating season with you!