There are times throughout ones life that we undoubtedly
find ourselves asking the question, "what the hell was I thinking," and "how on earth did I get into this mess."
We are all human and make the same mistakes as one another. Whether it be bad decisions as teens, or investment decisions
that at first glance seemed the correct way to go, don't feel bad, again, you are only human.
Having said that, why should we make the same bad decisions over and over
again? After all, the definition of insanity is, "doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different
result."
When it comes to summer time
with the kids, there are many opportunities that you may find intriguing, exciting and a once in a lifetime chance. That,
does not however, mean that your families safety takes a backseat.
What about the chance to get onboard a nice powerboat or sailboat for the very first time? Not knowing
what to expect, or not having any experience at it is no excuse for stupidity. Your family comes first and foremost, end
of story.
BOATsmart, is committed to making
sure that all Canadian families practice safe boating whether it be for beginners or the saltiest of dogs. According to BOATsmart,
almost every single fatality is preventable. And with that in mind, BOATsmart has put together a list of the top five boating
safety tips to make the summer a more enjoyable time.
1- Suit
Up: Make sure that every member wears PFD (personal floatation device) suitable for their size. For children, choose
one in a bright colour with a collar that turns a child's face up in water. Don't let your pride get in the way. No one
is too cool to wear a lifejacket.
2- Pre-launch
review: Before embarking, make sure all passengers onboard are familiar with the safety equipment you have at your
disposal. You can download the BOATsmart Connect App to access free animated refresher lessons. Common sense is a wonderful
thing if we all practice it while on the water. The app can provide you with an instant boat insurance quotation and save
up to 25% as a Connect member.
3- Make
it fun: Plan activities such as tubing, swimming and wakeboarding that involve the whole family. For younger children,
bring toys onboard like binoculars or bubble machines they can use while exploring.
4- Get insured: BOATsmart! Assure is insurance for smart boaters.
The best in class coverage for your boat or watercraft. Make sure you review water sports hand signals each time a new individual
gets into the water. Being unprepared can result in a bad injury or worse.
5- Get certified: Any individual operating the boat must obtain their pleasure craft
operator card. Not having it can cost you dearly, avoid the $250 fine and prevent accidents by signing your whole family
up to complete a safe boating course and obtain their pleasure craft operator card available at www.boatsmartexam.com.
Summer is supposed to be about creating
great family get togethers and memories that will last a lifetime. Don't ruin them by making preventable mistakes and having
to live with the dire consequences.
WonderMoms
wishes everyone a safe and adventurous summer and we look forward to hearing all about it.