Boating season is March through October in Illinois. For many people, being out on the water is one of the great joys of life. However, as you get ready to head out for your adventure, it’s important to keep boating safety front and center. Here are some practical guidelines and tips to help ensure a safe (and hopefully stress-free) boating experience.
Exploring the waterways of Illinois
More than half a million Illinoisans own and operate recreational boats on our state’s waterways, according to a recent study. This includes various types of power boats, personal watercraft such as Jet Skis or Wave Runners, sailboats, pontoon boats, canoes, kayaks, and more. It’s not surprising, given the many rivers (more than 87,000 miles of rivers and streams!) and lakes (more than 2,900!) in this state — we do a lot of boating. In Illinois, the most-owned type of boats are kayaks (approx. 180,000), followed by open power boats (approx. 169,000), such as bass boats and ski boats.
With all this boating going on, it’s smart to think about ways to stay safe on the water. Boating safety involves using the right equipment, staying alert and planning ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or new to the activity, here are some key essentials of boating safety.
Gear up with the right equipment for boating safety
First and foremost: Always wear a life jacket. Whether you are using a kayak or a waterski boat, every person on board should have a U.S. Coast Guard–approved personal flotation device (PFD) or life jacket that fits properly.
Take special care with children. Children should wear a life jacket at all times — not just for regulatory compliance, but because drowning can occur in just a few inches of water. Teach children how to swim, teach older children basic safety skills, and ensure they know what to do in an emergency. It’s important to keep a constant watch on children, especially around throttles and moving parts.
If you are considering investing in inflatable life jackets, be sure to learn all the special considerations and follow the safety tips from the Safe Boating Council.
Equip your boat with essential safety gear. In addition to life jackets, ensure your boat has all the legally required equipment, including throwable flotation devices, navigation lights and sound-signaling devices. Carry a fire extinguisher, first-aid kit, flashlight and extra batteries. If your boat has a closed cabin, make sure your boat has a working carbon monoxide detector. Finally, be sure you have either a VHF radio or a charged mobile phone for emergency communication. Learn more about important safety gear.
Maintain your vessel. Regularly inspect your boat to ensure that engines, navigation lights and safety equipment are in good working order. Check that your fuel, battery and engine are service-ready before departure. Follow a pre-departure checklist to help ensure nothing is overlooked and that your boat is in optimal condition.
You can get a free vessel safety check from your local US Coast Guard Auxiliary.
Stay alert
Be aware of water conditions. Before heading out, check weather and water conditions. Always review the local weather forecast and be prepared for sudden changes. Keep an eye on water conditions, as currents and waves can change rapidly. Avoid boating in rough waters, storms or high winds.
Know the ‘rules of the road’ for operating your boat. While on the water, know how to operate safely in waterways, including right-of-way, buoy markers and speed limits. Keep a 360-degree lookout to avoid collisions with other boats, swimmers, and obstacles, including shallow waters and rocks. Read up on additional boating-safety tips from the National Safety Council.
Don’t drink and operate your boat. Finally, avoid using alcohol and other drugs while operating your vessel. Alcohol use is the leading known factor contributing to fatal boating accidents, according to the Safe Boating Council.
Plan ahead
Make a float plan and be prepared to communicate. Before departure, inform a friend or family member of your boating itinerary. Provide them with a float plan. A float plan should include details such as departure time, destination, planned route and an expected return time. This information is vital for quick rescue operations if something goes awry. Also, it is very important to carry a fully charged phone, marine radio (VHF), or emergency beacon for help in case of an emergency.
Take a boating-safety course. According to 2023 data from the Coast Guard, in 75% of deaths on boats, the operator had not been trained in boating safety. Boating-safety courses can teach you essential skills, from maneuvering your vessel to understanding maritime laws. Even experienced boaters benefit from refresher courses on safe-boating practices. The National Safe Boating Council offers a variety of free online boating-safety courses. You should also look into whether you need to get a boating license.
Learn or brush up on swimming skills. Make sure the whole family has basic swimming skills. Knowing how to swim and tread water can be lifesaving in emergencies. Drowning causes 75% of all boating deaths, according to the Safe Boating Council.
Get the proper amount of insurance coverage. There are several reasons to get insurance coverage for your boat and watercraft. A variety of coverage levels are available, depending on your vessel and boating activities. Taking a boating-safety class may result in a discount on your insurance rate. Additionally, some insurance carriers offer the option to bundle your boating insurance with your auto and home insurance, offering lower rates as a result. Contact your Bradish agent to learn your options.
Keep it safe — and fun
Practicing boating safety involves a combination of proper equipment, a good understanding of maritime rules, and preparedness for emergencies. Everyone, from seasoned boaters to those who are new to the water, should adopt these safety measures while boating. Doing so can significantly reduce risks and help create a secure, enjoyable experience on the water.
Whether you like to cruise around on the lake in your power boat, enjoy some relaxing fishing, or paddle along the curves of a winding river, remember to stay safe out there — and have fun!
by Kris A. Mainellis
