Boating and tubing are two favorite pastimes of summer. With a rush of adrenaline and a feeling of freedom, people who enjoy watersports love boats and tubing because it provides a rush and isn’t too dangerous. It’s suitable for children and adults, and it’s a great party activity for a group. But it’s also important to practice safe practices when riding a boating tube. As with any watersport, there is always a risk of injury, especially when around water. But if you follow general safety advice, and your local boating laws, you should have a fun day on the lake or river.
Always Wear Safety Jackets
In most states, you will be required to wear a flotation device while riding a boating tube. However, even if your state doesn’t require it, or you’re tubing on a private lake and aren’t concerned about being ticketed for lack of a safety jacket, all riders should wear a flotation jacket. Not only are these jackets brightly colored so that other boaters can see riders who are thrown from the tube, but it helps riders who may be a little disoriented remain above water. Part of the fun of tubing is tossing people off, but the combination of speed and hitting the water can leave some swimmers, even competent swimmers, a little dazed. A safety jacket will ensure a rider floats right up to the top after hitting the water.
Understand How Speed Affects the Tube
To use a boating tube safely, you must understand how speed affects the tube. The tube will not always go the same speed as the boat. You also need to control your speed more in choppy waters and when turning the boat. Remember that when you make a turn, the tube will actually pick up speed that can be almost three times the speed of the boat. It’s during turns that many people are thrown from a tube, so if you have nervous passengers or first timers, make sure you take your turns slowly.
It’s also important to keep an eye on the slack in the tow rope. Speed can affect the slack, and if the slack loosens, the riders could be in danger. A good idea is to always have a spotter on your boat who can alert you to thrown riders and any problems with the tubing process. Tubing is great fun, and with the right safety precautions and perfect way to spend a day on the water.
Check out some important tips on using boating tubes safely, and have a fun day on the lake or river. Contact Business Name for float tubes or boat towables designed for your safety.
