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Teens Rescued After Dragon Boat Capsizes In Lake Washington...
Posted on 7/26/2011
One Killed When Boat Capsizes In Puget Sound Near Camano Island...
Posted on 5/11/2011
Washington Man Dies In Hydroplaning Race Accident...
Posted on 4/20/2011
Two Injured In Boat Accident Under Evergreen Point Floating Bridge...
Posted on 3/26/2011
Man Dies After Falling Overboard From Sailboat Near Cathlamet, WA...
Posted on 11/25/2010

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What To Do If Your Boat Capsizes | Washington State Boat Accident Attorney

What should you do if you are on a boat that capsizes? All Washington State boaters should know the answer to this question. Many of the boating fatalities in the state take place after a capsize, but a simple list of things to do before and after a capsize can minimize boat accidents and boat accident injuries.

First and foremost, there is an important list of things to do before you even step on the boat:

• Take boat safety and water safety courses.
• Make sure that you and everyone else on the boat is wearing a well-fitting and secured life jacket.
• Go over the location of safety items with everyone on the boat, including the location of the boat’s horn and the boat’s flares.
• Also make sure that everyone is familiar with the planned route.
• Tell a friend or family member not going on the trip your planned route and your planned return time.
• Paint the hull of your boat a bright color so that it can be seen more easily from the air.

After a capsize, there are other important steps to make:

• Remain calm
• Do a head count and check everyone for injuries or immediate dangers.
• Make sure everyone has a floatation device, knowing that coolers and other items can be used. Do not leave the capsized boat unless it is dangerous.
• Try to right the boat if you have knowledge on how to do so.
• Use signaling devices to call for help. Flares, brightly colored life jackets, whistles, flashlights, and mirrors can help.
• If you know it may be a while before you are found, conserve energy and only signal when needed. Try to keep warm and stay strong.