Safe boating tips

1. Life Jackets: Give a correctly sized life jacket to those who wish to wear one, show guests where they are stored and how they are properly worn.
2. Fire Extinguishers: They should be easily visible near engine and galley areas. Take a moment to explain what types they are and how they are meant to be used. Point out any fire port locations for snuffing out engine compartment fires.
3. Flares: Show where they are located and how to safely activate without causing injury.
4. Engine and Fuel Shutoffs: Especially on sailboats, it's not always clear how to shut off the engine (usually by pulling out the "kill" knob).
5. VHF Radio: It's very important to familiarize the crew with its operation, how to make a radio distress call, and DSC one-button rescue mode (if equipped).
6. Battery Switch: Show the crew how to turn off power in case of an electrical fire.
7. Chartplotter, GPS, and Loran: At a minimum, crew should know how to find a latitude/longitude position with these electronics. Pinpoint its location on the unit's screen. Have a paper chart aboard, show your crew where you're departing from and headed for the day.
8. Man Overboard Gear: Show where it is and give a brief explanation on how to use it.