You must ensure that everyone aboard a pontoon boat is safe when you take it out on the water. Also, you need to be prepared for any safety inspections by local law enforcement officers. The coast guard pulling you over is the worst thing that can happen to a buzz.
What safety equipment is needed for a pontoon boat? Do you have a list?
Yes, the answer is yes. And while I may be joking about the coast guard, it’s a serious matter. It affects not only your safety but that of everyone else on the lake or in the water.
It is very easy to ruin a day of pontooning because you didn’t pay enough attention to safety equipment on-board. For example, what would you do if a passenger fell into the water and drowned?
Although these events are rare, they do happen. You need to be prepared before you take people out on your pontoon onto water.
Pontoon boat safety: things you simply must-have
You must have certain safety items on your North Myrtle Beach pontoon boat rental. These items should be kept on each pontoon boat. Also, you should regularly inspect them to ensure that they are working and in good condition.
Valid Registration Certificate
Are you missing one? If you don’t have one, your pontoon boat rental should not be on the water. It is important to be familiar with the laws in your state.
Make sure your capacity plate is visible from the helm. Are you unsure what one is? Learn more about the replacement of capacity plates here.
Selection of Personal Flotation Devices
This is a law that must be observed. Everyone who uses your pontoon boat should have a life jacket or PFD that is properly fitted.
It’s a good idea for everyone to have a variety of PFDs, so you can have one that fits all ages and shapes. Your ability to adapt to any situation involving a passenger on your pontoonboat is essential. As captain, you are responsible for safety.
Marine Fire Extinguisher It is not enough to just have any fire extinguisher. You need one that was specifically designed for marine use. The Amazon First Alert extinguisher has been approved for use on boats by the Coast Guard.
Keep track of the expiration date of the extinguisher. Make sure everyone knows where it is located so they can respond in an emergency.
Audible Warning Device
You will need to be able to draw attention of other boats in emergency situations on the water. You will need a device that makes noises, such as a whistle and a horn.
Amazon has a marine air horn that is extremely loud. It is louder than any whistle. This is my favorite warning device because it can be heard above loud music and turbulent water. You won’t regret buying one.
Throwable PFD
Although everyone should have a PFD on their boat, it is still important to have a spare in case of emergency. No matter what kind of device you use during water sports, it doesn’t really matter. Provided that it is maintained well.
The US Coast Guard has approved the Flowt Type IV throwable PFD. It has webbed throw handles and comes in multiple colours. A bright color is more noticeable once it’s thrown in the water.
Skier down flag
Skiing, wakeboarding and tubing require a skier down flag. This allows other boats to see the situation and can help them take preventive measures.
Without this equipment, skiers who fall in the water can be seriously injured. These pieces of safety equipment are very affordable and can be purchased on Amazon.
Additional Safety Equipment I Recommend If you want everyone to be safe, there are additional safety equipment you should have. These items might not be required by authorities, as the rules in each state can vary. It’s best to verify your state laws.
These are items that I use personally, because pontoon boat safety has been very important to my family.
You can use your eyes to signal that you are in need of help.
- Fully functional navigation lights A red and green light should be located on the deck. A white light should also be installed as high as possible.
- Flashlight and spare batteries.
- Anchor and line.
- Form of emergency propulsion.
- Stocked first-aid kit. Even if the injury is minor, it can happen. It is easy to get into an accident at sea.
- You can use tools and spare parts while on the water to fix any problems.
- A cell phone with a signal.
- Charger.
You should ensure that all safety equipment is in place if you’re new to pontooning or jet skiing and are just starting out with a pontoon boat. Before you take to the water, make sure that you have all the necessary safety equipment.
You are risking your safety and the safety of your passengers by not doing so.
If your safety equipment is not in compliance with local regulations, you could be in serious legal trouble.
It should be easy to shop online at Amazon for all your items. It shouldn’t take too long to get all your items ready for your first trip.
Call Action Water Sportz if you are looking for a pontoon boat rental in Myrtle Beach.
Action Water Sportz
1525 13th Ave N
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
(843) 280-4100
http://www.actionwatersportz.com/
Action Water Sportz Little River
4430 Kingsport Road
Little River SC 29566
843-280-3100