A cottage is a wonderful place to enjoy the great outdoors. It’s also a great place to participate in some activities that you normally don’t get the chance to do. At every cottage rental there is a vast number of new experiences and exciting adventures for you to discover.
One of those activities is boating. Many cottages are located near a lake and they are the perfect place for boaters. Those who don’t live near a body of water during the rest of the year will likely jump at the chance to take a boat around their cottage rental. However, like with all activities, there are a few safety precautions necessary. Both first time and veteran boaters will want to pay attention to the following safety tips.
- Don’t Boat Alone
This is especially true for new boaters. You should always make sure to have an experienced boater on board with you. Even if you have been boating for a while, it’s smart to bring someone with you in case of emergency. Many times, it’s often more fun too! Also, make sure to tell someone when you’re leaving and what time you’ll be back. They’ll be more likely to know if there’s been a problem when you don’t return on time.
- Wear Safety Equipment
Always wear a life jacket or another flotation device on the boat and we advise that keep it on at all times. You never know when something could go wrong. Your trip to the cottage could be cut short by a fall in the water and a potential injury.
- Never drink and boat
Drinking seriously impairs your ability to make fast judgments and slows your reaction time. In many areas drinking and boating is against the law as well. This is especially true for motor boats. During the summer, local law enforcement agencies typically spend time around “cottage country” looking for people breaking the law and the fines can be quite heavy.
- Have an emergency kit
Always have a flashlight or a torch with you and make sure that you have extra batteries available. You may wish to bring a cell phone, GPS and flares with you as well. Again, you never know when you could end up alone on the water and in trouble.
- Get to know the boat
When renting a cottage, the boat you are using is often not your own. Ensure that you take some time to get to know it. Figure out where everything is and, if possible, ask the owner for some pointers. Being prepared will make your trip more enjoyable and safer.
- Don’t take chances
Never jump on or off your boat. Don’t travel farther from shore than you feel comfortable and watch out for weather conditions. The water can go from being calm and serene to very rough quite quickly, so plan ahead and consider heading back to the dock if thing look to be getting rough.
- Take lessons
If you’re renting a cottage and have never boated before, consider taking some lessons. These will prove invaluable in the long run. Your time on the water will be more enjoyable and safer.
One of the best parts of renting a cottage near the water is the extra activities you can take part in. Boating can be a wonderful, exciting activity and, if you take a few important precautions, your trip to your cottage rental will be a vacation you never forget!
Tags: Boating, canadian cottage rental, Cottage Rental, Cottage Rental Tips, Lake, Safety, Water