Boating safety and equipment that is required at sea

When you are out in a boat anything can happen, the weather can change quickly and accidents happen when you don't expect them.

Did you know that on average 2 young people are rescued from boats by the RNLI every single day.

Shorething gang prepared for safe boating trip

Always be prepared and plan ahead. Make sure you have the appropriate boating equipment and know what to do in an emergency to stay safe at sea.

Here are 5 top tips to help you.

1. Wear a lifejacket
2. Check the engine and fuel
3. Tell others where you are going
4. Carry some means of calling for help
5. Keep an eye on weather and tides

Above all be prepared and get proper training

Why not test your skills by playing the boating safety game? How safe are you?

1. Wear a lifejacket

It could save your life! You never know what might happen when you are out in a boat so always make sure you wear a lifejacket. Make sure it is the right size for you, fasten all straps properly (including the crotch strap) so they don't feel loose or you will struggle to keep your head above water.


Click here to view a video clip of how a buoyancy aid should be worn correctly. Back to top If you are going out in a boat remember to take enough food and water with you. If your boat has an engine, check with an adult that it works properly. Make sure you have enough fuel for your trip, with an adult, after all you want to make sure you get home safely! Back to top Always tell somebody responsible where you are going and when you will be back. They will be able to raise the alarm if they get worried and you are not back on time. Back to top
Do you know what to do if there is an emergency and you need to call for help? Here are 4 important pieces of boating equipment and how to use them. 1. Always carry a whistle with you; it will let others know you are in trouble. 2. A VHF radio is the best way of letting someone know you are in trouble; do you know how to use one?
Click here to view a video clip of a VHF radio being used Click here to read the Mayday tips Click here to download the Mayday call sticker 3. A mobile phone may not work as the signal could be poor and you may not be able to get through to the person you want. 4. Flares are a simple way of letting others know you are in trouble and show where you are but remember it is illegal to let off a flare if you are not in distress. There may be a few ways of operating a flare. Always read the instructions beforehand or speak to an adult about the types of flares on the boat. Click here to view a video clip of a flare being used Back to top
Always check the weather forecast before you go out on the sea. The weather can change very quickly and you can find yourself in danger if you are not careful. Do you know the times of the tide? Always check them with an adult before you set out, this will help you to navigate past hidden dangers. If in doubt, don't go out! Back to top
Did you know that every year RNLI lifeboat are called to around 8,000 incidents? Many of these could be prevented. Don't let this happen to you. Get some proper training so you know how to keep safe. Be prepared, there are lots of courses which will teach you how to sail safely. Click here to find out more about the different courses available for young people and the one that is best for you. http://www.ryatraining.org/leisure/dinghymultikeel/coursesforunder16s.htm If you or your parents would like more details information about boating safety, email seasafety@rnli.org.uk for your free complete guide to sea safety. Back to top