Living in Florida is truly living the dream! Living close to the water and being able to enjoy it almost year-round is one of the benefits of living here. As the summer weather heats up, be sure to test your boating safety know-how before you hit the water. Here are a few tips from our real estate agents to help keep you safe this summer.

• Wear a Life Jacket
  Hands down, the most important safety precaution you can take on a boat is to make sure all passengers are wearing life jackets. Even if you are a good swimmer, you could be knocked unconscious or become disoriented if you're thrown from the boat. Also, make sure you get a life jacket that fits properly, especially for kids. It won't do you any good if it comes off when you hit the water.
  
  
• Prepare a Boat Safety Kit
  Life jackets may be the most important, but they're only one of the things you need on board in case of an emergency. Also, be sure to have emergency items such as a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, a flashlight, duct tape, rope, a bucket, and a mirror, and a whistle for signaling if you need help.
  
  
• Beware of Carbon Monoxide
  Carbon monoxide is as much of a concern on a boat as it is in your home. You'll have to be very aware of the risk of carbon monoxide created by your engine. Be wary of things like blocked exhaust outlets or idling your engine while sitting still, and have your engine checked regularly to ensure everything is in good working order.
  
  
• Check the Weather
  Even in beautiful Florida, the weather can sometimes be a hazard. A beautiful day near Bradenton homes for sale won't always stay beautiful, and getting caught in a storm could turn that beautiful, relaxing boat ride into a fight for survival. Always check the weather forecast before venturing out onto the water.
  
  
• Have Your Boat Checked Yearly
  Just like with your car or the HVAC system in your house, it's important to have your boat checked out regularly to make sure everything is in good operating condition. A safety check ensures that everything from emergency equipment, to ventilation, to your boat's battery are all present and functioning properly. It's a good idea to have regular checks and maintenance done on the mechanical components as well.
  
  
• Take a Boating Safety Course
  Want to really make sure you are prepared to hit the water? Enroll in a boating safety course. You can find them both online and in person. The idea is to ensure you know common safety procedures, how to prevent common accidents, and are prepared in case of an emergency.

Florida may be like living in paradise, but it's still up to all of us to make sure our favorite activities stay safe and fun for everyone. Looking for your dream home among the Sarasota homes for sale? We can help with that, too! Contact us today for more information about buying and selling homes in Florida.