Water safety organisations in the UK are sharing an important message ahead of another busy boating season.

HM Coastguard (part of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency), the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) have launched their annual safety campaign for recreational boaters.

‘Reduce the risk, boost your skills’ aims to provide both new and experienced boaters with handy tips and guidance for getting themselves and their vessel ready for the upcoming boating season.  

Pre-season checks, onboard equipment and crew all feature in the campaign’s safety checklists, which are provided free of charge across the UK – including a version available in Welsh.

The laminated booklet includes simple advice, such as discussing passage plans and man overboard procedures, checking equipment and engine, identifying a second-in-command, and ensuring an effective means of calling for help is kept onboard.

Tom Barnett, Network Commander for HM Coastguard, said: “As a boater myself, I recognise the importance of effective preparation and planning – it’s absolutely part of how boaters best equip themselves and others for a safe and enjoyable day out on the water.

“Created in collaboration with partners at the RNLI and RYA, our campaign provides tips, advice and a helpful set of free Boating Checklists, designed to help boaters carefully consider their safety, the safety of their passengers, and the safety of their vessel and its features.”

He added: “If you do get into trouble on the coast or at sea, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

Sarah Pennicard, RNLI Water Safety Delivery Manager, said: “We always want people to enjoy being on the coast, but things can quickly go wrong at sea. It’s so important to stay prepared.

“The boating checklists are your essential guide to ensure you are prepared as we enter the start of the boating season, and we’re thrilled to be working with HM Coastguard and the RYA to produce them.

“By keeping the essential checklists onboard, you’ll be reducing the risks of incidents occurring or increasing in severity.”

Richard Falk, RYA Director of Training, said: “There’s nothing quite like time spent out on the water. But whatever your level of experience, even the shortest trip benefits from a little thought and preparation.

“We’re delighted to be working alongside the RNLI and HM Coastguard to share these important safety messages as the boating season gets underway.”

He added: “The start of the season is also the perfect time to refresh your knowledge with an RYA training course, either in a classroom or afloat, or through reading one of our many RYA handbooks which cover all forms of boating.”

To order your copy of the checklist, visit: hmcoastguard.uk/checklist.