Central New York is full of beautiful lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, and if you own a boat, you get the full experience of these bodies of water in the summer months. But before you take on the waves, you need to make sure you have a few boating supplies and essentials to help you out of sticky situations.

Top 10 Essential Boat Supplies

We’ve come up with a list of top 10 essentials boat enthusiasts should have on their boat before they ride. If you’re an avid boater, do you have all of these?

1. Current registration – Make sure you are following the law while operating the vessel.
2. Boating and fishing license – A boating license is required to operate a boat and a NYS fishing license is needed in order to fish while on the boat. Make sure you have the proper documentation to legally execute these fun hobbies.
3. First aid kit – In case someone is injured on the lake, include a first aid kit complete with bandages, aspirin, motion sickness pills, antiseptic, etc.
4. Boat safety kit – This kit is full of items you would need on a boat in case of emergency such as a life jacket, boat flares, fire extinguisher, raft, non-perishable snacks, and water.
5. Marine radio and/or cell phone – If you need help, having one of these to reach someone is crucial. Marine radios are continuously monitored by the US Coast Guard to help anyone in need.
6. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and/or a hat – While out on the water, boaters are exposed to the harsh rays of the sun. Be sure to have sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself.
7. Towels – You need something to dry off after jumping in the lake!
8. Extra clothes sealed in a bag – After being in the water, it can be uncomfortable wearing wet clothes for the rest of the day. Be sure to pack extra clothing that is sealed in a dry bag. Throw in a sweatshirt as well, in case it gets chillier in the evening.
9. Cooler – Keep your beverages chilled in a cooler! You also need one if you intend on taking home any fish, pending the laws of the lake.
10. Waterproof camera – Capture the memories on a waterproof camera!

How to Make Sure to Avoid a Boating Accident

If your boat is stocked with all of the essentials listed above, awesome! You are on your way to making the lakes in Central New York a safer place for you and your family. However, there is still more you can do to promote boating safety and avoid a crash. For example, have you taken a NYS boater safety course? Take a look at our previous blog, where we discuss measures you can take while boating to avoid an accident.

What to Do If You Are Involved in a Boating Accident

If the unfortunate strikes and you are involved in a boat collision, The People’s Lawyer is here to help. In a previous blog, we discuss the actions you can take following a boating crash including what you can do at the scene of the accident, what to do after seeking medical attention, and determining the liability in the boating accident. You can find the steps here.

If you have been involved in a boating accident, contact Brindisi, Murad, Brindisi & Pearlman for a free consultation. We’ll be able to speak up for you, and get you the compensation you rightfully deserve. If you prefer to contact our office by phone call 1-800-8LTB-LAW today.

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