a child steering a boat

Life Is Better On A Boat

SAFE BOATING TIPS FROM YOUR MARINE HEATING & COOLING PROFESSIONALS

‘Tis the season in Michigan … boat season, that is.

With more than 11,000 inland lakes and shores that border four of the five great lakes, Michigan is a haven for boats of every shape and size. And now that summer is in full swing, those boats are heading out of their winter ports and cruising into open water.

Mast Heating & Cooling are the preferred HVAC-R specialists in the western Michigan area, and we know that many of our customers are ready to enjoy a great summer out on the water. And we want to remind everyone that while having fun is the goal, being safe while having fun is the name of the game. So, here are a few boating safety tips to follow to ensure that your summer on the water is a safe one:

BEFORE YOU BOARD

  • Check your vessel’s engine to make sure it is running properly and all fluids are at their proper levels. Make sure all navigation lights are in good working condition.
  • Test your radio and other communication devices and let a friend or family member know where you are going and when you expect to return.
  • Make sure you have copies of your boat certificate and registration onboard.
  • Attach your vehicle and boat keys to a floating bobber/keychain.
  • Make sure there are enough personal floatation devices (PFDs) for each person boarding the boat.
  • Check the weather forecast … if it looks suspect, keeps the vessel docked!

WHILE ONBOARD

  • Wear PFDs. Michigan law states that all persons under the age of six must wear one at all times, but it’s a good idea for everyone else, too.
  • Stay seated while the boat is in motion.
  • Shut off the boat while passengers are getting into or out of the water for such activities as skiing, swimming or tubing.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and take note of other boats or persons in the water close to your vessel.
  • Don’t consume alcohol while boating, especially if you are the primary or backup boat operator.

It is also wise to make sure your boat’s marine HVAC systems are in good working order. Let our HVAC-R professionals check out your boat or lake house cooling and heating systems on a regular basis to make sure they are operating smoothly and efficiently. And don’t forget about the Wi-Fi thermostat. Installation of this handy equipment can make sure that your home is cool and climate-controlled after a hot summer day on the lake.

We offer sales, service and maintenance for a complete line of Marine Aire and Cruise Air marine HVAC products, so give Mast Heating & Cooling a call today. Happy boating!