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A great deal of the basic safety requirements whilst at sea can be, and should be, dealt with before the boat is even launched.

First of all the boat itself should be reliable and well maintained. All modifications to the boat's original design should be done professionally and be approved. The engine, if one is fitted, should be serviced regularly and spare parts carried. Take careful note of any hull damage and check steering and electrical components.

If the boat is up to scratch, the next thing to make sure of is safety equipment. The necessary equipment needed will depend on the State or Territory in which you live. Boating Regulations for your area will stipulate exactly what the legalities are in relation to this gear.

A life jacket for every crew member should be carried and make sure they are stored in an easily accessible position. Take note of the size of the vest and match it to the individual. A bailing bucket and lanyard should be an essential part of the safety kit. Water can be quickly bailed out if there is a leak using the bucket. Not very technically advanced, but it works.

A marine radio, and the license to operate one, is a very handy item to have aboard. It's then possible to leave your intended destination and estimated time of return with the Coast Guard. Updated weather reports can be heard and it allows you to communicate with other boats in the area.

EPIRB's are now common and most boats traveling to offshore waters will have one on board. EPIRB stands for Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon. It will allow emergency services to pinpoint your location if things go horribly wrong.

Other electrical equipment such as sounders and GPS systems are not necessarily essential safety gear, but they offer peace of mind and another tool for the keen offshore boat operator.

Know your boating laws. You may be a bit rusty in this area if you have had your license for years, but re reading these may help you to avoid trouble. Even recalling some of the simple flag symbols used as warnings can be very beneficial.

If your boat is equipped with a motor then a fire extinguisher would be a good inclusion. If you are miles out to sea, then putting any flames out as soon as possible could be the difference between losing you boat and some minor engine damage.

Paddles or oars in smaller motor boats are useful also, especially if the boat is used in inshore waters. If the motor fails, then rowing or paddling home may be the only option and it will save you the embarrassment of being towed in by the Coast Guard.

The weather plays a major role in boating. Always make sure the conditions are suitable. Don't be afraid to cancel if the weather is looking a bit dodgy. Better this than a possibly disastrous alternative. When out in the boat, keep an ear on the radio (a transistor type will do for weather updates if you don't have a marine radio) and head home at the first suggestion at a change in the weather. Storms can come up very quickly and make your day very uncomfortable if not dangerous.

Common sense plays a big part in boating and safety at sea. Please keep equipment up to standard and keep an eye on that weather.

Learn more about this author, Steven Pike.
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