BOATING SAFTY

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As you probably are well aware, days spent boating, fishing and water skiing create memories that last forever. We've provided a few safety tips to help keep you, your family and friends as safe as possible when you're on the water.

. Be weather wise - Calm wind and seas make for enjoyable power boating, waterskiing and fishing. But sudden wind shifts, lightning flashes and choppy water all can mean a storm is brewing. If you have a VHF transceiver with built-in NOAA Weather Radio channels, use it. If not, take along a portable radio to check weather reports.

. Bring extra gear - A flashlight, extra batteries, matches, a map of where you are, flares, sun tan lotion, first aid kit, extra sunglasses. Put those that need to be protected in a watertight pouch or a container that floats.

. Tell someone where you're going, who is with you, and how long you'll be away - Then check your boat, equipment, boat balance, engine and fuel supply before leaving.

. Ventilate after fueling - Open hatches, run blower, and most important, carefully sniff for gasoline fumes in the fuel and engine areas before starting your engine.

. Stay dry and warm - Wear several layers of light clothing; bring rainproof covering. Never wear hip waders in a small boat.

. Keep fishing and hunting gear clean and well packed - A loose fishhook can cause a lot of pain and ruin a great outing. Bring an extra length of line to secure boat or equipment.

. When changing seats, stay low and near the center line of a small boat.

. Be ready for trouble when a powerboat passes you in a narrow channel - As the lead boat (which always has the right of way) stay on your side of the channel and maintain a steady speed so that the overtaking vessel can pass you safely. Use your radio to discuss this with the passing boat.

. Anchor from bow, not the stern - Use anchor line length at least five times longer than water depth.

. Take a safe boating course - As an extra benefit, you may earn lower boat insurance costs.