Safe Boating

Before you go boating on our seas, lakes and rivers follow these tips to help you stay safe.

The Boating Safety Code serves as a quick reminder of the key points. Click on the links below for more detailed information.

Checklist of Essential Equipment - Before you head out on the water, make sure you've got all the right gear, by checking out this list of essential equipment
Life Jackets - Safe enjoyable boating means taking and wearing your lifejackets as the unexpected can happen so quickly.
Check your batteries and get your engine serviced - Time spent now could save you headaches later. A few quick checks and some basic maintenance, such as replacing old fuel, can make all the difference to the outcome on the water.
Skipper Responsibility - Every skipper has both a legal and moral responsibility for everyone aboard.
Communications:

Key things to do to stay in touch and call for help if you need it - including major changes to VHF channels on 1 October 2016
Get a VHF Callsign and check your details are correct - A VHF Callsign is a unique identifier that holds key information about your vessel and emergency contact. It’s used in an emergency and also with Coastguard Radio when logging a Trip Report or Bar Crossing. Obtain a VHF Callsign or check and update your details.
Log a Trip Report or make a Bar Crossing Report - Getting in touch with Coastguard Radio when you hit the water and again when you’re back at base is a great way to let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to be back. That information, along with the number of people on-board, means that in the event we need to search for you, the search area is dramatically reduced and we can find you that bit quicker.

Marine Weather - including major changes to Nowcasting channels on 1 October 2016
Alcohol & Boating - Things can change quickly on the water. You need to stay alert and aware.
Bar crossing safety - advice and videos on crossing a bar safely
Other Safety Information - All boats should carry a minimum amount of appropriate safety equipment.
In An Emergency