| In addition to learning how to handle a sailboat it is also | | | | cleaning pads, aspirin, antibiotic cream, good sunscreen, |
| necessary to learn the safety rules. Sailing is an | | | | etc. If you take prescription medications regularly, be |
| exciting and adventurous sport. Like all sports, there is | | | | sure you always have these on board with you. |
| an element of danger in sailing and unfortunately | | | | 4. A Fire Extinguisher is a must. Get a quality |
| mishaps do occur. For this reason you need to be | | | | extinguisher to keep on your boat. The chances are |
| prepared for emergencies- not just with knowledge | | | | great that you'll never need to use it, but if you do it |
| but also with equipment. When accidents happen on | | | | could save lives and your boat. |
| boats people are usually not where they can get | | | | 5. Boat Anchors for docking, going to the beach or an |
| immediate help. Below are a few things that will help | | | | emergency. You should have one for both the stern |
| you be prepared in the case of an accident or | | | | and the bow. Extra tow rope is also good to have on |
| emergency. | | | | board; you can help tow someone stranded or be |
| 1. A Personal Flotation Device labeled USCG | | | | towed if necessary. |
| Approved for everyone, passengers and crew, on | | | | 6. Universal Boat Cushions come in bright colors and |
| board. Also make sure you provide the children with | | | | are very handy. They can be tossed to a swimmer |
| one that fits them correctly. Keep flotation devices in | | | | who needs help getting back to the boat or someone |
| an easily accessed place and be sure everyone | | | | who accidentally falls overboard. |
| knows where they are and how to put them on. Even | | | | 7. Keep extra dock lines for docking your boat to your |
| on a lake, a storm can arise very quickly and catch | | | | pier or to someone else's pier. Having a few loops |
| you unaware. | | | | already tied into the rope makes it useful when you |
| 2. A Handheld Signal Horn & Aerial Signal Kit to alert | | | | need different sizes. |
| other boaters in case of an emergency or fog and to | | | | 8. Keep a Cell Phone or Radio on board. These come |
| send up an aerial signal if you are stranded on a big | | | | in useful not only for emergencies but also when you |
| lake. You can store these items anywhere on the | | | | need to get a tow back or if someone wants to come |
| boat. | | | | out and join you for a ride. |
| 3. A First Aid Kit that has all the basics you would | | | | Always be sure to have plenty drinking water and |
| need in case of an emergency. It should include | | | | your boat's registration papers onboard. |
| bandages, gauze, instant cold compress, alcohol | | | | |