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Protect Your Family Against Boating Accidents
Don't become a statistic this summer. Boaters need to take serious safety measures before stepping in the water to ensure a safe and happy water-filled vacation.
In 1996, the Coast Guard recorded 8,026 recreational boating accidents. Contributing factors to these accidents include traveling too fast, driving under the influence drugs or alcohol, failing to follow boating regulations, carelessness and inexperience.
To prevent boating accidents, the Insurance Institute offers these safety suggestions:
· Check Weather forecasts.
· Let someone know where you're going and when you expect to return.
· Check engine, fuel, electrical and steering systems, especially for exhaust-system leaks.
· Carry one or more fire extinguishers, matched to the size and type of boat.
· Equip the vessel with required navigation lights and with a whistle, horn or bell.
· Consider safety devices, such as a paddle or oars, a first-aid kit, a supply of fresh water, a tool kit and spare parts, a flashlight, flares and a radio.
· Make sure every person on board wears a life jacket.
· Know and obey marine traffic laws: the "Rules of the Road." Learn various distress signals.
· Keep an alert lookout for other watercraft, swimmers, floating debris and shallow waters.
· Don't overload, and distribute the load evenly.
Boating Insurance Is A Necessity This Summer. Call us at 800-444-3199 to discuss your needs.
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Mikkelsen Insurance Services
"Service You Can Count On"
1-800-444-3199
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