Beacon Watch

boats, safety, sports

Water Safety

  Because no boat is entirely trustworthy—think of the Titanic—even if you are the greatest boater in the world, you may one day need to be able to survive in the water without it. This is why one of the most important aspects of boating safety actually has nothing to do with boats. Swimming is one of the most crucial skills to a safe boater, and, of all of the different methods of staying afloat, treading water may be the most useful to a boater. This is because rather than trying to swim to the shore, the passenger of a capsized boat is typically simply waiting where he or she is in order to be rescued. Below are 5 steps on how to tread water efficiently and correctly.

  • Do not try to swim. When swimming, you turn your body horizontally in the water and kick your legs. However, when treading water, you keep your body upright and use both your arms and legs.
  • Move your arms horizontally, and your legs back and forth in a circular motion.
  • Do not panic. Additionally, continue breathing normally. Panicking and hyperventilating can only waste your energy and make it more difficult to actually stay above the water.
  • Lie on your back if you are having trouble staying afloat in the normal position. This will also become difficult after a while, but it uses different muscles and different technique than regular water treading, so it may help you rest and stay afloat longer.
  • Use anything around you to stay afloat. This may seem like a no-brainer, but if you happen to see any floating debris—wood, garbage, etc—in the water, do not hesitate to grab onto it.

Looking for more ways to stay safe while boating? Check out BeaconWatch today for state of the art boating safety solutions.

The United States Coast Guard mandates that a certain set of safety equipment be present on any recreational boat.  This list includes a number of basic items that are absolutely crucial for emergency mitigation.  However, there are a number of other items that aren’t legally required, but can make a huge difference in your safety and enjoyment of the trip.  Here are our top ten items all boaters should bring along on all outings.

    1. A first aid kit. Though not a legal requirement, having bandages, gauze, antiseptic cream, and other first aid items is a big safety bonus.
    2. Sun protection.  For your long-term safety and your short-term comfort, sunscreen and sunglasses are a must.
    3. Waterproof bag. This will help you keep items that must stay dry (cameras, towels, clothes, documents, etc.) dry.
    4. Water. Dehydration can creep up quickly on hot days full of fun and action!
    5. Jumper cables. Should you experience unexpected battery problems, this could save the day.  If you see someone with battery troubles, you can be their hero,
    6. Rope.  This will allow you to tie up to docks; it will also allow you to tow other boats to safety in an emergency situation.
    7. Swiss army knife/multi-tool.  Be prepared for minor maintenance issues!
  • Emergency locator beacon.  In water-based emergencies, every second is precious.  Emergency locator beacons can play an important role in rescue missions.  Whether you’re just relaxing at sea, or engaging in extreme water sports, it’s definitely worth considering the benefits an emergency locator beacon could offer should a dangerous situation arise.

SeaMe™

The SeaMe™ emergency locator beacon by Beacon Watch is designed with you in mind!  Featuring patented technology and a three year battery life, the SeaMe™ is always ready at a moment’s notice.  Contact us today for more information.

Tips for Swimming in Natural Bodies of Water

Though caution must always be exercised when swimming, there are special precautions to be taken when swimming in a natural body of water as opposed to in a pool or in other “controlled” bodies of water.  In fact, the American Red Cross includes a special section of their water safety webpage reminding swimmers of exactly that. Here are a few important tips to keep in mind when you do swim in lakes, oceans, rivers, etc.

  • Avoid Swimming Alone.  One way to greatly reduce the risks associated with swimming is through the buddy system.  If someone nearby knows that you are swimming, they will  be able to react should you need help.  Ideally, of course, swimming should only be done in areas that are patrolled by a lifeguard.
  • Beware Unseen Dangers.  Objects underwater such as rocks, broken glass, or even water-critters are oftentimes difficult to see, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings.  It is also very important to avoid diving in areas that you do not know well, as hidden sandbars, rocks, etc. can cause serious or even fatal injuries.
  • Watch out for Currents.  Natural bodies of water often present some form of current–be it the movement of a river or the riptide of an ocean or lake.  These can make swimming extremely challenging, so it’s important to pay attention and play it safe.
  • Extreme Conditions Call for Extreme Precautions.  Cold water can cause rapid fatigue and even hypothermia. Hot conditions and direct sunlight can also cause fatigue or even heatstroke.  Storms can turn even the calmest bodies of water treacherous. Be sure to check the forecast and plan accordingly.
  • Heed all Posted Signs.  At many beaches, posted signs will alert you to any specific hazards.  Be sure to keep an eye out for them and to obey their instructions.

Visit the Beacon Watch blog for more safety tips, or visit our online store for a selection of important water safety equipment such as the SeaMe Beacon.

3 Simple Steps You Can Take For Your Boat

In many aspects, boating safety begins long before your boat ever touches water.  Additionally, boating safety is also about habits.  By developing and practicing good maintenance habits, you can reduce the likelihood of a dangerous accident while also prolonging the lifespan (and protecting the value) of your boat.  Here are 3 simple steps that all boat owners should practice.

#1 Wash your boat

This step is so simple, yet extremely important–especially for people who use their boats in saltwater environments.  All boats should be washed off with fresh water each and every time they are taken out of the water in order to prevent problems such as salt-related corrosion and the ever-persistent zebra mussel.

#2 Check the Propeller

Propeller maintenance is important for a number of reasons.  Not only can fishing line or other materials become tangled up against the propeller–an issue which, though easily unnoticed, actually requires professional attention–propellers are also prone to chips and dents.  Propeller issues can lead to higher fuel consumption and lower overall performance.  The best way to check your propeller for issues? Several times per boating season, use a deep well socket to remove the propeller and examine it closely.

#3 Cover the upholstery when not in use

Let’s set the record straight on this one: boating upholstery is meant to be resistant to the water exposure it receives through regular use.  That being said, excessive water exposure can damage boat upholstery in the same way that it would damage your leather sofa if you left it out in the sun and the rain all of the time.  Save yourself hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars in upholstery wear and tear by covering your seats when the boat is not in use!

Check out the Beacon-Watch blog for more information on all aspects of boating safety.

3 Tips for Learning How to Swim

If you’re an adult who has never learned how to swim, don’t worry–you’re not alone.  According to a recent article published in Time Magazine, only 56% of Americans were able to pass a basic swimming exam that tested 5 core competencies.  Thankfully, learning to swim is much easier than you may think–and it can even be a lot of fun.  There are so many reasons to learn–ranging from improved health, to boosted self-confidence, to the ability to develop a lifelong hobby.  As a part of our commitment to improving water safety for everyone, Beacon Watch would also like to point out safety as another very important reason to learn.  That’s why we’re presenting these 3 tips for learning how to swim.

#1: Get Used to the Water!

The most effective way to learn swimming is by feeling comfortable and having fun.  (In fact, I would venture to say that is the most effective way to learn just about anything!)  That’s why an important first step should be simply getting used to the water.  Get into the shallow end of the pool (where you can still easily stand) and enjoy wading around.  Eventually, you’ll want to practice submerging yourself up to your neck, holding your breath underwater, and lifting both feet off the ground at the same time.  This will go a long way towards helping you feel more relaxed throughout the process.

#2: Find a Swimming Buddy

Once you’re ready to start practicing, it’s a good idea to bring a friend along.  Not only is this an important safety measure, it will also make the whole process a lot more fun.  Last but not least, you will have an experienced partner who can help point out areas for improvement in your form.

#3: Never Give Up!

Swimming, like most other sports, is very rewarding–but does require a bit of hard work.  The most important advice anyone can give, therefore, is to stay committed! You’ll be glad you did!

 

For more information on water and ski safety, check out the Beacon Watch website today!

Bring the Right Equipment!

Safe boating is all about responsibility–and that responsibility starts before ever getting in the water. One important step to take before voting is making sure that you comply with all standardized list of required equipment. You can see a full list of all federally required items to be carried on recreational boats here. in this article, we will highlight three important items that are most likely to be overlooked.

Number one – fire extinguisher

Fire extinguishers are not just for large vessels. When you’re on the water, help can be very slow in arriving, and fire damage can quickly render a boat unserviceable. Make sure that you have a fire extinguisher on hand at all times.

Number 2 – sound producing device and visual distress signal

In the event of a water emergency, it is crucial to alert other people in the surrounding area. This both allows them to help you, and prevents you from becoming a danger to them. Though radios can come in very handy for reporting incident to the proper authorities, visual and audio signals remain the most effective way of learning your fellow boaters share the water with you.

Number 3 – Personal flotation device

How did life jackets land on this list of items likely to be forgotten during a boating outing? After all, most boaters do understand the importance of bringing along life jackets. Sadly, many boaters feel that they do not need to wear their life jackets at all times – thus exposing themselves to unnecessary danger.

A final word

As we mentioned before, the above list was incomplete, and is only intended to highlight a few important items. Be sure to visit this link for a full list of required items. Last but not least, it is important to remember that some important items are not necessarily required, but are still worth investing in. For many, especially extreme sports enthusiasts, a personal locator beacon is a perfect example of this.

Visit the Beacon Watch Blog for more information on boating safety.