BOATsmart! USA Knowledge Base

Module 03 - Getting on the Water

Staying Safe in Stormy Weather

If you get caught in a storm, take the following actions:

STEP 1: Make sure every passenger is wearing a lifejacket.

STEP 2: Reduce your speed and maintain your movement forward.

STEP 3: Turn on your required navigation lights—you may not be the only boater out there.

STEP 4: Seat your passengers on the bottom of the boat, along the centerline. This will help stabilize the boat and prevent your passengers from falling overboard.

STEP 5: Stow away any loose gear. A wakeboard or fishing pole can catch the wind and fly at you or your passengers.

STEP 6: Cut through large waves at a 45° angle—this will reduce the chance of your boat being swamped by them. If you’re operating a PWC, cut through the waves at a 90° angle to help maintain lateral stability.

STEP 7: Keep the bilges free of water in order to stay well above water level (make sure you have a good bailer or working bilge pump on board).

STEP 8: If it’s safe to do so, head towards shore.