Tips for A Safe Pontoon Experience

Summer is pontoon boating season and there’s nothing like taking your boat out on the water and having a good time with family and friends. The weather is sunny, the food and drinks are flowing, the music is rocking and everyone is ready to have a good time! 

Before you cast off, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead and make sure that you and your guests will be safe on the water and that you have everything you need if you’re faced with the unexpected.

1. Don’t Forget Flotation Devices

Before you make your guest list, make sure you have enough safety-vests for everyone on board. Make sure everyone is seated and wearing a vest when you cast off and have a life preserver on deck just in case. You never know what can happen and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

2. Have a Designated Captain

It’s illegal to operate a boat under the influence, so if you’re planning to serve alcohol at your pontoon boat party, have a designated captain to keep you on course. 

3. Watch the Weather

Check the weather reports and do your research before you sail. Make sure you keep your eye on the horizon. If you use your boat frequently, you may want to invest in a boat weather station. 

4. Drop Anchor

No matter how calm the water may seem, remember to drop your anchor if you’re planning to stay in one spot for an extended period of time. 

5. Don’t Rush

Pontoon boats aren’t built for speed, but they can move faster than you might believe. Be careful when you accelerate, excessive speed is one of the key causes of boating accidents. Enjoy your time on the lake and drive slow when necessary. 

6. Stay in the Shade

According to the CDC, the sun’s UV-radiation can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes! You don’t want to ruin your fun day in the sun by getting a sunburn. With the average pontoon boat trip lasting over five hours, and when you add in the reflective properties of water and fiberglass, the chances of getting sunburned increases while you’re on the water. Keep yourself covered and use sunblock whenever you’re on the water. Even on overcast days!

7. Buy a Bimini Top

One of the easiest ways to stay in the shade is to install a Bimini top when you’re on the water. A Bimini top combines a lightweight, collapsible frame with a UV-resistant top and many can be installed to cover a pontoon boat. This is an easy and affordable way to stay safe on the water! 

8. Try a T-Top

One issue for pontoon boats is that a Bimini often doesn’t always cover the center console. If you want to make sure everyone is able to get some shade, a T-Top might be a good option for you. Adding a T-top frame can provide extra shade so the captain can keep his hands and attention on the wheel. 

9. Watch Your Weight

Know your boat’s weight capacity! The more the merrier but only to a certain extent. Don’t overload your boat with too many people. This applies to equipment and recreational gear like water skis as well.

10. Don’t Burn the Boat

Not satisfied with sandwiches? One of the great things about a pontoon boat is that the extra space enables you to have a grill! However, before you fire up the burner, make sure that you and everyone on the boat stays safe. Only use the grill when the boat is tied up or anchored, keep the grill downwind of Bimini tops and other boat fabrics.

You may also want to consider purchasing a grill designed for boating. Many are designed to attach to the rail and hang out over the surface. That way, you run less of a risk of hot embers falling onto your boat and causing a fire.

11. Have the Must-Haves

Whether you grill or not, a fire extinguisher is required by law. You should also have a first-aid kit on board and some kind of distress signals like flares or flags. Check out our blog on Boat Accessories Safety List to learn more about what kind of gear you should have on your boat.

12. Keep Your Pontoon Boat Covered

When not in use, it’s always a good idea to keep your pontoon boat covered. This prevents UV damage, weather, and other environmental pollutants from damaging your finish or causing wear on your boat. Want to keep your guests comfortable? Boat seat covers can keep seats clean and prevent fading when not in use!

 

We hope these tips helped you prep for a safe time in your pontoon! Need help choosing some of the items mentioned in this blog? Reach out to one of Bretz Capital Sports Sales staff members today! Feel free to stop by and visit us at 9900 FAIRVIEW AVENUE, BOISE, ID 83704 or call us at (208) 323-1500.