Whether wakeboarding, tubing, or waterskiing, water sports are exhilarating. While enjoying yourself, serious injuries may not be on your mind. If you’re going to take friends or loved ones on the new boat, though, you’re responsible for their safety. Here are a few tips to make sure everyone has a fun and safe experience.

How to Prevent Water Sport Accidents 

1. Use Coast Guard-Approved Life Jackets 

Everyone on your new boat should wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times. Give all passengers this gear and make sure they’re fastened correctly. This is the most effective way to ensure people are safe if an accident occurs.

2. Limit Alcohol Consumption

You should avoid drinking if you’re operating the vessel. This will reduce the chances of an accident and improve your judgment. If some of your guests want to relax with a beer or wine cooler, though, there’s nothing wrong with that. However, they shouldn’t participate in water sports or assume control of the boat. 

3. Scan Your Surroundings Constantly 

When waterskiing or wakeboarding, watch out for potential obstructions, such as rocks or tree limbs. As such, those doing the towing must remain alert at all times. The more aware you are, the better chance you have of averting an injury.

If you want to buy the family a new boat for all your favorite water sports, turn to Silver Lake Marine in Silver Springs, NY, this dealer boasts the largest on-water showroom in the Finger Lakes region. For more than 40 years, they've been supplying boat enthusiasts with pristine vessels that are built to last. To browse their vast inventory of new boats, visit their website, or call (585) 237-5185 to see if they have the make and model you’re looking for in stock.