Pontoon Boat Safety Tips

If you’re looking for a boat for leisurely riding, fishing, or other fun activities, pontoons are an excellent option. They’re a great place to throw a party with friends, and with some models, you can even water ski, wakeboard, or inner tube behind them. However, no matter what you like doing, you’ll need to prepare yourself for the risks you might run into on the water. When it’s easy to have so much fun on a pontoon, it’s also easy to overlook the best safety practices.

Here at Rockingham Boat, we want our customers to stay safe! That’s why we have created this brief guide to pontoon boat safety. If you have questions or you want to explore pontoons for sale, get in touch with us at our dealership in Hampstead, New Hampshire.

Follow the Rules and Regulations

It’s important to remember that every state and many individual bodies of water have regulations governing boating. Make sure you familiarize yourself with all local regulations before you go. In many states, laws for drinking and operating a boat are similar to those associated with drinking and driving a car, so just leave the alcohol on the shore. There are even laws governing boats crossing state lines so you will probably need a specific boating permit.

Gear Up

Before you head out on the water, get all your safety equipment together, and test them to make sure they work properly. Every pontoon boat should have at least one or two fire extinguishers that are regularly serviced. An electrical fire or gas fire can spread much more quickly than you might imagine. Next, make sure you have a set of emergency supplies. This should include flares, a GPS beacon, a first aid kit, and a space blanket. You also need at least one life jacket for every person on the boat. People might be tempted not to wear them, but these are very important, especially for anyone who’s not a good swimmer. Make sure to tell someone on the shore about your plans, too. If anything happens, this will allow them to point emergency services in the right direction.

Prepare for the Weather 

Always keep an eye on the weather when you’re boating and check the forecast before you head out. It’s best to cancel the trip if any inclement weather is predicted. Not only will rain showers ruin your trip, but bad weather can also lead to tricky situations. Imagine being caught under a lightning storm. It’s always better to head back to safety and go back out if the weather improves

If the weather is suitable for a pontoon boat ride, make sure that everyone is dressed appropriately. If there is a chance of rain, check that all the passengers have a waterproof jacket with a hood or hat. If it's going to be sunny, make sure you have extra sunscreen. Remember that once you get moving, it can feel much colder on the water, so pack along extra blankets to keep everyone cozy.

Keep the Party in Check

Pontoon boats are a great place to throw a party with friends and family. They have a lot of deck space to move around, and they can take the party anywhere the waterline allows. However, the problems start when the party gets out of control. Out on the water, your party might attract the attention of other boaters who want to join in on the fun. You should be careful not to let too many people aboard. Pontoon boats can quickly get overloaded, and in some extreme circumstances, this can lead to the boat overturning.

Stay Safe on the Water

Finally, you should always follow the best safety practices when you’re on the water, whether you’re out fishing on the lake or just cruising along the coast. As the boat operator, you should not drink alcohol or use recreational drugs before your trip. You need to remain sober to ensure that your reflexes are fast and your mind is sharp so you can react to obstacles and steer carefully around them. Be courteous to other boaters and give them plenty of room when passing. Know the ability of your craft to handle the waves and keep it from running in shallow waters.

Pontoon boats are great for parties and for having fun on the water, but make sure you also keep safety in mind. We hope that this guide is helpful and if you follow these tips, you can enjoy your trip without any worry. For more information, or if you would like to check out our selection of pontoon boats for sale, visit Rockingham Boat in Hampstead, NH. We welcome all our friends coming from Manchester and Nashua.