BY ALI BICEK, OT/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
In the spring of 2012, our family went out for a quick boat trip on Lake Minnetonka. The day was going to be filled with fun and sun until my older son fell off the boat and his legs came into contact with the moving propellers. What followed was a major surgery to repair multiple lacerations on his legs, a week in HCMC, and almost a year of rehabilitation! Since his accident, our family has taken boat safety VERY seriously! Here are some tips to keep your family safe out on the boat:
TIP 1: Be clear and consistent about boat rules, and review them every time you get on the boat. If you have a rule, follow it EVERY time! If your rule is to wear a life jacket, make that part of the routine each time, and you’ll see your kids adopt this habit without any reminders.
4 SIMPLE RULES:
1. Kids wear life jackets 100% of the time!
2. Stay seated when the boat is moving!
3. Quiet and still when launching and docking the boat!
4. The Captain is in charge! Listen to the Captain!!
TIP 2: Have an emergency plan and all the necessary equipment. Review the plan on each boat trip!
TIP 3: Tell your kids about what could happen. A little fear isn’t a bad thing and can keep your kids more mindful of safety on the boat. This may seem like overkill, but things can go from BAD to WORSE with lightning bolt speed when you’re on the boat! My kids have learned the hard way to always think about safety on the boat so they can continue having our fun family boating adventures! Check out these local programs that provide adaptive water sports!
Capable Partners: Adaptive outdoor programs
www.capablepartners.org | (763) 439-1038
I Can Programs – DNR: Adaptive canoeing and fishing programs
https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/ican/index.html
(651) 296-6157
Wayzata Community Sailing Center: Adaptive sailing lessons
wayzatasailing.org | 952-476-5875
PHOTO: scuba.com
