5 Boat Prop Safety Tips Every Owner Should Learn

by Abhinav G. Movie Enthusiast Boat propellers feature powerful, sharp blades with the potential to cause considerable injury upon contact. If you are not careful when operating your boat or swimming, snorkeling, or scuba diving near the vessel, your chances of an injury significantly increase.

The propeller is out of sight, so it tends to be out of mind, making boating expeditions seem safer than they are. Let's take a few boat prop injury statistics and safety tips to help you prevent a boat propeller accident.

Boat Propeller Statistics of Note
According to the United States Coast Guard, 177 boating propeller accidents occur yearly. Sadly, more than two dozen people pass away annually on average as a result of these unfortunate boat prop accidents. These occurrences are not only possible - but much more common than most people think!

Safety Tip #1: Plan Our the Worst Case Scenario Beforehand
Use your mind's eye to envision a scenario in which someone on your vessel falls overboard. Consider if a scuba diver emerged near your boat or a wayward swimmer found themselves in the vicinity of your propeller. What would you do? Play out this scenario beforehand, and you will be that much more likely to respond in a quick, decisive, and safe manner if such a situation arises.

Take time to memorize where your boat's motor shutoff switch is positioned. This way, you will know exactly where to start if anyone gets near your boat propeller.

Ensure a full first aid kid is stocked and within easy reach. Regularly test onboard communication devices to ensure contact with outside help occurs when the situation calls for it. Plan out these potential scenarios beforehand to provide the best response should disaster strike. It's a boat owner's responsibility!


Safety Tip #2: Scan the Area Before Starting Your Boat Engine
It is a mistake to assume that no one is in the vicinity of your boat when beginning an expedition. Don't crank up the engine until you've thoroughly scanned the area for swimmers, snorkelers, scuba divers, and fellow boaters. Every time.

Safety Tip #3: DO NOT let People Ride in Vulnerable Parts of the Boat
Taking a boat ride is a thrilling experience for the entire family - one that invites reckless behavior from individuals unfamiliar with the potential danger a boat can cause. Never let passengers ride on the transom, gunwale, bow, or another part of the vessel that heightens the chances of falling overboard.

If someone were to fall overboard, they would be in grave danger of landing near that dangerous propeller below. This potential hazard is not something a child or individual unfamiliar with boat safety will consider, so it's YOUR responsibility to make sure these actions do not occur.

Safety Tip #4: Mind the Engine as People Enter/Exit the Vessel
The boat engine should not be on as people board the vessel - under any circumstances. Furthermore, the boat engine should be in the off position as people depart the boat. The bottom line is that the propeller might still be spinning while the boat is idling. Be safe rather than sorry by turning off the engine when someone enters or exits the watercraft.

Safety Tip #5: Stop Immediately When Someone Falls Overboard
If anyone on the boat falls overboard, stop right away. Turn off the engine. Do not reverse the vessel in an attempt to pick up the person who fell overboard. If you were to put the craft into reverse, the fallen boater might be sucked directly into the propeller. Keep an eye on the person in the water and approach him or her slowly.

Boat Safely. Delta Propeller Has All Your Needs Covered
The pros at Delta Propeller hope you have a safe and exciting boating season. Whether it's safety accessories or brand new boat prop options, we have all your needs covered.

Take a look at our inventory today, and you'll find the best deals from top brands - from a supplier you can trust.

Reach out to us today to learn more about our inventory by dialing (513) 467-0601 or email us at sales@deltaprop.com.

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Created on Jul 28th 2020 00:33. Viewed 341 times.

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