Looking at recreational boating accidents may shed some light on hazards that ship owners and mariners might encounter. There were 4,515 recreational boating accidents in 2012 that resulted in 651 deaths, 3,000 injuries and an estimated $38 million in property damage, according to a U.S. Coast Guard report. Many maritime accidents are preventable with proper training and by following basic safety rules.4 Most Common Types of Boating AccidentsThe following are some common types of boating...

Maneuvering around obstacles, such a traps and buoys, is one of the first basic skills a boat captain must build. It’s a skill that requires proper training, smart safety practices and paying attention on the water.Receiving Proper Training for Maneuvering Your VesselCaptains can meet the challenges of staying clear of obstacles in the water by first securing proper training in marine navigation and maneuvering methods, and then getting plenty of practice on water.Some of the basic boating...

Each year, hypothermia claims the lives of 800 recreational boaters, commercial fisherman and merchant mariners in the United States, reports Hypothermia.org. It’s essential for captains and crewmembers to exercise precaution and follow basic safety protocols when travelling through cold waters to preempt hypothermia-related injuries and fatalities.Hypothermia BasicsHypothermia occurs when body temperature drops below 95 degrees; in severe cases, core temperature can drop even lower. When the...

An onboard carbon monoxide (CO) leak warrants prompt attention and repair as performed by a qualified maritime mechanic. A vessel should not be operated until confirmation that the carbon monoxide leak has been repaired.Carbon monoxide poisoning is a harmful and potentially fatal medical emergency. An individual exhibiting signs of carbon monoxide poisoning should receive immediate attention from a qualified medical professional. Maritime workers and recreational boaters are among those at risk...