HELENA – It may not be the best time of year to be thinking about boating, but spring will be here sooner than you think. Sure, we (hopefully) have some snowy days to get through, but a good snowpack will lead to some good floating.
Here are some ideas for the floaters on your gift list:
Visibility stickers
For paddler safety, supply your loved ones with a vessel identification sticker and Hi-Vis, reflective or luminescent stickers for their paddles.
- Paddle craft sit low on the water and can be difficult for motorized boaters to see. Reflective stickers make you more visible and safer on the water.
- Vessel identification stickers help if you become separated from your boat.
Lifejackets
Lifejackets can make a great gift for new or seasoned boaters. Upgrading your lifejacket selections might encourage those you love to wear them more often.
- Pick a USCG approved lifejacket.
- The label should have a USCG approval no. xxxxxxxxxxx.
- Purchase one that will be worn.
- Lifejackets are most effective when worn prior to entering the water.
- Comfort is not impossible!
- Purchase one approved for the water sport.
- Inflatable lifejackets are cool in warm weather and light weight while moving around, but they are not appropriate for all sports such as towed sports or white water.
- Purchase one that fits
- An improperly fitting lifejacket may not keep your head above water. Check the weight range and chest size of the jacket prior to purchasing. Ideally try it on ahead of time!
SOS signals
- Whistles, horns or bells: For noise signaling to other boaters and shore.
- Smoke and Flags: For daytime signaling.
- Flares: For nighttime signaling.
- Marine electronic LED flare: Nonflammable, floating and long-lasting nighttime SOS signal.
Communication devices
There are lots of locations to escape cell phone service in Montana. But when things do not go as planned, a backup communication device or plan is critical. There are a lot of options on the market these days; consider these questions when purchasing a device for your family:
- Where will you be boating and what type of assistance might you need?
- Do you have a simple float plan and an emergency contact, or a satellite phone to call for help?
- Is a two-way radio to your family on shore enough, or do you need to be able to reach emergency services such as Search and Rescue?
- Are you covered with pre-set messages, or do you need to be able to type out an explanation of where and what is occurring?
Dry bags and phone cases
- Get a range of sizes.
- Bright colors are easier to see.
- Store back up clothing in case of unplanned immersion.
Sun protection – Layers for changing weather
- Bright colors are easier to see in natural waters.
- Pick something neon for the best visibility in open water.
Portable marine air pump for inflatable boats or toys
- Use high-pressure pumps for inflatable crafts with specific psi needs.
- Automatic shutoffs can keep you from accidentally damaging your craft.
Marine wash pump kit
- Keep your vessel in prime condition and free of aquatic invasive species with a portable wash kit to maintain your investment.