Stop Your Boat From Capsizing

A capsizing sail boat | Stock image

Capsizing and swamping are two of the worst things that are guaranteed to ruin your time on the lake. Not only is this situation dangerous for everyone onboard, but you are also causing expensive damage to your boat. 

Trust us, you don’t want this to happen. 

Capsizing occurs when a vessel turns onto its side or is completely turned over. Swamping is when a vessel fills with water.

To help you prevent capsizing or swamping your vessel, the Utah State Parks Boating Program has out together this simple lists of do’s and do-not’s. Remember, most accidents can be prevented by taking the appropriate safety measures, so always remember to check your to-do list.

Here’s what you can do to reduce your risk of capsizing or swamping when out on the water:

• Don’t overload your vessel.
• Balance the load of all passengers and gear.
• Turn vessel at controlled speeds.
• If anchoring, secure the anchor line to the bow of the vessel, never to the stern.
• Don’t boat in rough water or bad weather.

If you should capsize or swamp your vessel, or if you have fallen and can’t get back in, stay with the vessel and signal for help.

 
Learn What To Do If Someone Falls In The Water