Owning a boat is an exciting adventure, but before you set off on your sunset cruise, it’s crucial to take precautions. Boating can be potentially dangerous if you are not aware of the rules and regulations. Ensure your journey is both enjoyable and safe with these essential tips.

General Safety Tips:

Life Jackets: Every rider, skier, and boater must wear a suitably sized South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) approved life jacket. This is a regulation in all provinces.

Experienced Crew: Always use both an experienced driver and observer in the boat. Keep people in view when they enter or exit the boat, and always approach the person in the water on the driver’s side (and downwind where possible).

Visibility: Always keep the rider/skier in sight. Whenever someone is in the water and not being towed, alert other boaters to take caution by displaying the “skier down” flag.

Safe Distances: Never participate in watersports close to shore, near swimming areas, in shallow water, or in water where you do not know the depth or what is beneath the surface.

Skill and Experience: There is no replacement for skill and experience when operating a boat. A boat is not an automobile; it requires additional time to manoeuvre and stop. Taking a course and obtaining a licence from Skipper’s Training South Africa is mandatory before operating any boat.

Warnings and Instructions: Read and heed all warning labels and instructions on the boat and in the owner's manual. Be aware of the potential carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning and propeller strike hazards.

Understanding Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning

What is CO poisoning and how can you prevent it?

Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, and dangerous gas produced by all engines and fuel-burning appliances. Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause death or serious injury. To prevent CO poisoning:

Why is it so dangerous?

Carbon monoxide enters your bloodstream through the lungs, blocking the oxygen your body needs. Prolonged exposure to low concentrations or very quick exposure to high concentrations can be fatal. Early symptoms of CO poisoning include irritated eyes, headache, nausea, weakness, and dizziness. These symptoms are often confused with seasickness or intoxication, so those affected may not receive the medical attention they need.

How can CO accumulate?

• In inadequately ventilated canvas enclosures or enclosed places.

• Blocked exhaust outlets.

• Another vessel’s exhaust. CO from the boat positioned next to you can be just as deadly.

• Station wagon effect or backdrafting.

• At slow speeds, while idling, or when stopped.

• Under swim platforms.

How can you protect yourself and others?

Understanding and preventing carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is crucial for boaters. It's important to recognise where and how CO may accumulate around your vessel. If you can smell engine exhaust, you are already inhaling CO, a clear warning sign. Always adhere to all safety instructions and warnings related to canvas, engine, and blower operations. Ensure fresh air circulates throughout the boat at all times. Be aware of the locations of your engine and generator exhaust outlets and keep everyone away from these areas. Never enter spaces under swim platforms where exhaust outlets are located, as these can be particularly hazardous. Regular maintenance of your engine is vital, as engines that are not properly tuned produce higher levels of CO. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for engine upkeep to minimise the risk of CO poisoning.

Ensure your boating adventures are secure and stress-free by having comprehensive insurance. At Mont Blanc Financial Services, we offer top-notch boat insurance at competitive prices, tailored to your needs.

Ready to Set Sail? Get Insured Today!

Ensure your boating adventures are secure and stress-free with comprehensive insurance from Mont Blanc Financial Services. We offer top-notch insurance at competitive prices, tailored to your needs. Don’t leave your boating experience to chance—protect your investment and ensure peace of mind with our specialised boat insurance. Contact Mont Blanc Financial Services today at 0800 467 873 to get a quote and secure the best coverage for your water wonder. Our friendly experts are ready to assist you in finding the perfect insurance solution that fits your budget. Call us now and set sail with confidence!

Mont Blanc Financial Services - is an Authorised Financial Services Provider. FSP 8271