Expert shares boating safety advice to help avoid tragedy

JACKSON, Tenn. — Boating season is in full swing with friends and families hitting the water for some summer fun.

Boating is for fun, but to keep the fun from turning into a tragedy, experts are reminding boaters of important safety measures to keep in mind before you get on the water.

It’s important for everyone on the boat to be on the lookout.

“Everybody on the boat, number 1: knows how to swim. [Everybody] knows where the life jackets are located,” said Don Fountain, board certified trial attorney and author of “Defect Safety.”

Experts say operator error, operating under the influence, ejection from the boat and drowning are the most common reasons for boating accidents.

“It’s important for–especially whoever is the captain or in charge of the boat–to establish a relationship with passengers that informs everybody about safety devices, talks about what would happen in the event of an emergency, and to have a plan if something goes awry,” said Fountain.

There are many potential hazards on a boat.

Oftentimes, people are drinking, there is loud music. Many are not wearing shoes–all risks for injuries.

Many boats sit for a long period of time during the colder months. Unlike vehicles, its trickier to see what features are properly working after sitting in storage.

“Some of the things are maintenance related. Some of the things are designed related. Boats are subjected to harsh environments. There’s corrosion; we’ve seen steering failures, engine failures, failures under power when you really need power,” said Fountain.

Experts say the best source for boat safety is the owner and operator, as they are the one responsible for making sure the boat is in good condition and is properly maintained.

For additional safety standards, the United States Coast Guard provides a guide to the federal requirements for recreational boats.

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