Safe at Sea: Tips to make boating with children fun and safe
Whether the children on board your boat are your own or are their friends, or even the sons/daughters of house guests, there are a few “tips” that will improve everyone’s day on the water. A few of the ideas are “age dependent” and may not be appropriate for young boaters; on the other hand, a few of the tips are meant for children of all ages. (Ahem.)
Children must keep that life jacket on at all times.
A great rule is, “When you step onto the dock, have your life jacket on; when you depart the dock after boating, you’re free to take your life jacket off.” This rule needs to be ironclad.
It is also important that the life jacket fits them correctly, supporting their weight, and needs to be comfortable. An ill-fitting or overly-bulky PFD will make for a cranky young boater.
Teach them the rules.
While they may seem self-evident, always review the rules clearly. They should include the following:
– Do not lean over the rails.
– Stay seated at all times when the boat is moving.
– Do not play with any of the switches.
– Stay clear of all hatches (which can pinch fingers).
Truly teach young boaters.
Youngsters are intrigued by boats, so take advantage of this. Here is a partial list of what you can “teach” them – age-dependent – while boating:
– How to call for help; teach the use of the VHF radio.
– How to read and use a GPS.
– How to use the kill switch/lanyard.
– Talk about Rip Tides and what to do if they arise.
– It is never too soon to start teaching kids “The Rules of the Road.”
Keep sunscreen handy.
Guidelines are to reapply every two hours at least. Pay close attention to this, especially on an overcast day.
Be alert to sea sickness in children.
While they cannot take medication, peppermint is a great antidote. In fact, you may wish to keep individually-wrapped peppermints on your boat. They are a natural – and pleasant – response to dizziness and upset stomaches for children and adults.
Kids get bored easily.
Consider:
– Shorter trips for the very young.
– Packing a few “pocket toys,” coloring books – make them nautical – and books.
– Stop to fish.
– Stop to fly a kite off the stern.
Pack plenty of food and drink.
And then pack some more. Be sure to include enough large dry towels, or even dry clothes to change into. Wet kids equal cold kids, and cold kids equal cranky kids.
Show them how much fun boating is and you will have boating partners for life.
Pat Schmidt is a member of America’s Boating Club of Sanibel-Captiva. For more information, contact 239-985-9472 or Commander@SanibelCaptivaSPS.org or visit online at sancapboating.club.