Having the right equipment on board is the best way to practice boat safety. Keep reading this post by AED Marketing Inc. in Pasadena to find out how to equip your vessel and ensure a fun experience out on the water.

For most boaters, fall means the beginning of the boating off-season. But for Texans, this time of year is ideal for recreational boating activities. And it's no wonder since the weather isn't as hot, and the breeze is more pleasant. Considering that, you're probably eager to spend some weekends out on the water with family and friends this fall. To create fun and memorable boating trips, you must ensure everyone's safety. To that end, you must practice boat safety and get the required equipment ready. That way, you can enjoy the peace of mind that everyone is safe on board. Keep reading the following post to find out what equipment you need.

Rely on top-quality formulas like AMSOIL 10W-40 Synthetic Marine Engine Oil to keep your boat in top shape for longer. Visit AMSOIL's website or call AED Marketing Inc. at (281) 507-8721 to place an order for the most reliable synthetic oil in Pasadena.

Must-Have Items to Practice Boat Safety

Life Jackets

Having life jackets on your boat can make a big difference to the safety of every person on board. These devices keep the user afloat and face up if they fall into the water. For this reason, they are a must-have on board. To choose suitable life jackets, check that the U.S. Coast Guard approves them. Also, ensure that each vest on your boat fits each individual you plan to take on board. To that end, always look at the manufacturer's label on the inside of life jackets before buying them. Such a label indicates whether the device fits a child or an adult. Likewise, you'll find recommended chest size and weight range for the jacket's wearer. Once on the water, ensure all your passengers have their life jackets on. After all, you never know when an accident may occur.

Throwable Flotation Devices

Is your boat more than 16 feet long? If so, Texas law requires you to have a Type IV launching device on board. This personal flotation device is meant to be thrown at vulnerable people in the water. Even if all your passengers have their life jackets on, you never know when you'll encounter a person from another vessel asking for help. An advantage that sets these devices apart is that, unlike life jackets, they can be of help to anyone regardless of size or weight. Likewise, they have an attached rope that makes it easy to pull the person holding the device onto the boat quickly and safely.

Fire Extinguisher

Having fire extinguishers on board may sound strange since boating entails being surrounded by water. Yet, having the means to deal with potential fires is vital to ensure everyone's safety on board. You never know when a fire might break out due to electrical problems or a flammable liquid leak. That said, make sure your boat has sufficient fire extinguishers. Also, don't forget to check that they are full and in good condition.

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Visual Distress Signals

Having visual distress signals is vital for dealing with an emergency on board. For example, imagine your marine battery draining while having fun with family and friends on the water. In such a case, you would have no choice but to use aerial flares, red flares, or orange smoke flares to call for help. In the face of such a risk, keep your visual distress signals handy on board. Also, take note of the expiration date of each device to keep all your flares in optimal condition.

Sound-Producing Devices

A whistle, horn, or bell on board is vital to safe navigation. Among their many uses, sound-producing devices make it easy to interact with others, warn of waterways' hazards, or serve to call for help. Of course, you can use a wide variety of noisemakers; yet, you must choose the right one for the size and type of vessel you have. With that in mind, check state requirements before looking for a sound-producing device.

Navigation Lights

Setting up your boat's lights is vital to safely face fog, rain, or times of low visibility. Thus, ensure your navigation lights match the state boating regulations. Most powerboats must display red and green sidelights. On top of that, they must feature white stern or masthead lights.

If it has been long since your boat's last oil change, call AED Marketing Inc. at (281) 507-8721 to get the most reliable synthetic oil change in Pasadena. Don't forget to browse AMSOIL's online store to place your order for the best products for your boat.