It is important to remain safe while boating. Unfortunately, there are a lot of fails that can occur while out on the water. As a former captain, I have seen people make serious mistakes and some of which lead to the loss of the vessel. Here are the 6 most common boating fails and ways to prevent them from happening to you. 

Leaving The Bilge Pump On

A bilge pump is a critical component of a vessel to help pump out water accumulated in the bilge of the boat. 

It should be noted that bilge pumps are fitted with a float. When the float rises as a result of water, the pump automatically turns on. However, once the water level falls, the pump will shut down. 

In addition to the float toggling the pump on and off, a switch is positioned at the helm. The operator has the option to turn the pump on  at any point. With that said, the bilge pump is often left in the on position. 

Unfortunately, a pump that is left to run dry for several hours is likely to burn up and fail. To avoid burning up a bilge pump I suggest checking the switch after use. 

Failing To Install The Drain Plug

Don’t be caught pulling away from the dock with the bilge pump anywhere else but where it should be. 

Yes, boat owners forget to install the drain plug before launching the vessel from a trailer and a marina forklift. 

Without a doubt, your bilge pump will need to work overtime if the plug is left out. You’ll want to get back to the dock and lift the boat as as soon as possible. In order to forget reinstalling the plug, put it in an easy to spot place so it will catch your attention. 

Running Aground

Look, as a former captain I can tell you that running aground is common. However, measures can be taken to avoid this from happening to you. 

I have run aground in a multitude of boats but fortunately had little to no damage. Conversely, I have witnessed operators running full speed into sand bars. This is very dangerous because of how quickly the boat stops. As a result of the rapid deceleration, passengers are at risk of being thrown overboard. 

To avoid running aground, utilize channel markers and your chart plotting electronics. Stay away from shallow water despite needing to travel over longer distances. 

Allowing Passengers To Sit On The Bow Underway

Riding on the bow is not only illegal in most states it is incredibly dangerous. All too often you see people positioned beneath a bow rail, sitting on the gunnel with their legs dangling over the front. 

It doesn’t take much thought to understand why riding on the bow is dangerous. As the vessel makes contact with waves, passengers are tossed. The combination of wet surfaces and motion from the waves causes passengers to lose grip and fall into the water.

Taking into consideration its bow riding, passengers are struck by the vessel as it continues through the water. As obvious as it sounds, eliminate the risk of injury or death by sitting in a seat versus the bow. 

Anchoring From The Stern

Anchoring solely from the stern is a bad idea. However, in some cases you can combine a bow anchor with a stern anchor. 

The primary reason that dropping an anchor from the stern is dangerous is because it is easily swamped. 

A vessel’s stern, unlike the bow, cannot break waves and does not sit as high up out of the water. With that said, a vessel is prone to taking on water when the anchor is deployed from the back of the boat. 

It should be mentioned that people have died as a result of securing the anchor to the stern versus the bow. To avoid a potential situation, only tie the anchor to the bow. 

Not Giving The Right Of Way

Accidents on the water do occur. However, they can be avoided by learning and memorizing the rules of the road. 

In channels and crossing situations, boat operators need to be able to adjust course and speed appropriately. Failing to do so is likely to cause a collision between two boats. 

Without a doubt, you will want to learn and memorize navigation laws before getting out on the water. Read the rules of the road, learn and know how to react appropriately under a stressful situation. 

Avoid These 6 Boating Fails

Boating fails happen every day across the country. Don’t fall victim to making a boating fail while you’re out on the water. Making mistakes while boating can not only cost you money in repairs but also medical bills if someone is injured. Remember these 6 boating fails the next time you’re on the boat.