February 2021
When getting ready for a voyage, there is no such thing as being overly prepared. When an emergency occurs afloat, help is not near-at-hand. In addition to conducting maintenance checks and regular vessel safety inspections, you need to outfit your boat with a safety kit.  

Here are four tips for making and keeping your boat safety kit:

  • Start with a chart. Navigational charts are routinely updated—make sure you have the latest from OceanGrafix.

  • Be prepared for repair. Assemble a collection of tools and parts for boat repairs that you are able to perform. Get to know your vessel and understand how it works.

  • Grade your first aid. Create a list of first aid items you need on board. Your list should include items such as antibiotic cream, bandages, a solar phone charger, and waterproof matches.

  • Don’t set it and forget it. Check your safety kit regularly to be sure it is complete and up to date. Check expiration dates, replace expired supplies, and replenish any used contents. 

Safety at Sea
Seasoned Sea Tow captains recommend addressing these not-so-obvious safety measures before setting sail. 

1. Maintain an external battery source
A VHF radio is the gold standard for communication, but the use of cell phones and tablet-based apps are becoming more prevalent. Boaters need an external source to keep devices charged in the event that onboard electronics fail.

2. Know your location
Understand how to find your location on your cell phone or device. Apple users can ask the personal assistant app, Siri, “What are my GPS coordinates?” Android users can open Google Maps and click on the blue dot for coordinates.

3. Carry extra fenders, lines, and anchor
Tying up anywhere other than your home dock or pier may require your own fenders and lines. Have those onboard. Also, carry a spare anchor (with additional line) to help reduce dragging when needed.
Join regional representatives and members of the U.S. Congress for the Great Lakes Day Congressional Reception. Sponsored by the Great Lakes Commission and the 
Northeast-Midwest Institute, the event will include discussions about priorities and critical issues concerning the Great Lakes.

Although typically held in Washington D.C., this year’s event will be held virtually on March 3 at 9:00 a.m. EST.