Boat Safety & Maintenance

Latest Feature Articles


 		SPOT Assist Maritime Service
A new service is available to boaters that connects them by satellite with help on the water for fuel assistance, jump starts, soft ungrounding or towing to repair.
Improper EPIRB Battery Replacement
Maintenance of Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRBs), which are sophisticated electronic devices, requires the use of approved replacement batteries.
Winter Boat Preparation for Storage
Boaters and governmental agencies shut down their boating operations every year for the winter. Proper preparation after haul out will make spring commissioning easier.
Fall and Winter Dangers of Carbon Monoxide
Cold weather is linked to increased exposure to poisonous carbon monoxide gas in boaters. There are a number of safety precautions that can be taken.
Coast Guard Search and Rescue Resources
The U.S. Coast Guard employs a number of systems and technologies to bolster its ability to perform search and rescue missions. These tools make the water safer for all.
The Value of Wearing a Lifejacket in Cold Waters
Cold water injury researchers and the U.S. Coast Guard have long known the value of lifejacket use. New York has started requiring the use of lifejackets in the winter.
Lessons Learned in Texas Boating Survival Story
The recent survival story of boaters stranded in the Gulf of Mexico highlights lessons learned in how to make it easier for rescuers to find a vessel in distress.
Recreational Boating Fatalities Increase
An increase in recreational boating fatalities and a decrease in the number of registered boats was seen by the Coast Guard in 2008.
The Dangers of Alaskan King Crab Fishing
Alaska King Crab and commercial fishing in general is a risky occupation. Successful fishing crews can teach recreational boaters much about safe boating practices.
Register PLB and EPIRB Locator Beacons
Providing current user information through the registration of PLB and EPIRB radio locator beacons increases their effectiveness to rescuers.
NTSB Chairman Comments on Boating Safety Demands
The US NTSB Chairman points out the need to improve boating safety through children's wear of lifejackets, mandatory safety education and instruction for renters of PWCs.
About Boating Safety and Boat Ed
The US Coast Guard Auxiliary has developed an innovative boating safety course that offers participants some new options for gaining safety certifications in 42 states.
Summer Boating Safety Tips
Most boaters know how to be safe on the water throughout the year. Summer adds some unique challenges and here are a few specific summer boating safety suggestions.
Boaters Can Learn from Commercial Fishermen
Recreational boaters can learn much about boating safety by observing and using the same equipment and practices exercised by commercial fishermen.
Constructing an Abandon Ship Kit
Having an abandon ship kit available will greatly supplement the personal survival kit carried by prepared mariners.
Safe Boating Preparation and Training
Time spent preparing for that next boat trip could be time well spent in preventing problems on the water. Be a better mariner and learn more about the avocation.
Hoax Distress Calls Waste Funds and Risk Lives
False alarms and hoax distress calls made to the Coast Guard put rescuers at risk, divert resources from true emergencies, and cost taxpayers millions each year.
Avoid Boating Under the Influence BUI
Many boaters see little harm in drinking alcohol while out on the water. Safety statistics and research prove otherwise, it is a dangerous and preventable practice.
USF&WS Boating Infrastructure Grant Program
U.S. federal excise tax funds collected on fishing gear and boat fuel are available to construct mooring facilities for non-trailerable transient recreational vessels.
AMSEA Marine Safety Instructor Training MSIT
Training developed in Alaska to survive the cold water marine environment is available from qualified AMSEA instructors found throughout the United States.
Why Do Some People Not Heed Weather Warnings
The National Weather Service explores why people ignore warnings of approaching severe weather. Answers are vital to those that utilize NWS forecasts including mariners.
Personal Flotation Devices and Children
Recommendations for open water safety practices developed for pediatric health care providers provide useful safety information for everyone.
Alcohol Use Among Recreational Boaters
Alcohol use is known to affect the ability of boat operators and is negatively associated with boating incidents. Australian researchers study its effects on boaters.
Understanding Boat Capacity
Determining a small craft's capacity for carrying passengers and cargo is the first step required for planning a safe voyage.
Wear It! The 2009 Safe Boating Campaign
Boating safety is an important topic for everyone that's out on the water. Taking the time to learn about proper use of safety equipment enhances the boating experience.