Tips for Navigating Social Distancing Restrictions While Boating
APRIL 7, 2020 by National Safe Boating Council
COVID-19 is forcing everyone to navigate uncharted waters, including boaters. Many people are wondering if they can go boating, who they can boat with, and where they can go once they leave the dock. Unfortunately, there is no simple answer as many states have issued Stay-at-Home orders, with some prohibiting outdoor recreation and recreational boating, and permitted in others.
The United States of America are in a public health crisis, and it is critical that guidance is followed. As responsible boaters, it is important to understand that the primary purpose of Stay-at-Home orders is to limit the spread of the virus. Risking unnecessary exposure is not just a hazard for you – it puts law enforcement, emergency responders, seniors, and vulnerable populations in danger.
Here are some tips for practicing social distancing and safety while boating:
Follow state and local guidance from public health officials, marine law enforcement agencies, department of natural resources, park services and others. For example, some areas prohibit powerboating while allowing paddling (e.g. kayak, SUP, canoe) as exercise. Read this helpful state guide from NMMA, and check with your state and local community for the latest advisory as information changes daily.
- Limit the people aboard your boat to people in your immediate household. No guests, no friends, no grandparents that don’t live in your house, you get it.
- Stay at least six feet away from other people who do not live in your house.
- Maintain safe distance at the fuel dock or loading up at the marina.
- After touching a marine gate, fuel pump or something someone else may have touched, wash your hands or use a hand sanitizer to disinfect them.
- Don’t raft up to other boaters or pull up onto a beach next to someone else as it could put you in close proximity to others. Some states are requiring 50 feet between vessels.
- Go right from your house to the boat and back so that you don’t have unnecessary contact with anyone.
- Wear a life jacket when you’re on the water. You never know when an accident may happen, and a life jacket can help save you until search and rescue assets can arrive.
- Carry all required boating safety equipment such as flares, navigation light, a horn or whistle, a first aid kit. Learn more about required equipment.
- File a float plan. Make sure a friend or loved one knows the details of your trip in the event of an emergency.
- Pack food, water and other things you may need as restaurants and marina stores may not be open.
- Maintain proper handwashing.
- Be sure to have at least two communication devices that work when wet, such as satellite phones, emergency position indicating radio beacons (EPIRB), VHF radios and personal locator beacons (PLB). Cell phones are not reliable in an emergency situation.
- Don’t go boating if someone in your household is sick.
- Don’t drink and boat.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your boat, the water, sunshine and fresh air responsibly. For additional boating resources and tips, please visit SafeBoatingCampaign.com/Resources.
The current health crisis is uncertain and changing from day to day. Check the Safe Boating Campaign website for updates on boating restrictions related to COVID-19, as well as general boating safety tips, or contact outreach@safeboatingcouncil.org with questions.