0

Your Cart is Empty

7 Tips for Staying Healthy on the Water: Expert Advice for Boaters

September 26, 2024 7 min read

Embarking on aquatic adventures can be exhilarating and refreshing. Whether you're sailing, kayaking, or enjoying a leisurely swim, the time spent on the water offers numerous benefits for your physical and mental well-being. Knowing how to stay healthy and safe during these activities ensures you can fully enjoy your experience.

A sailboat glides across calm waters, surrounded by a picturesque coastline. A cooler filled with fresh fruits and water sits on deck, while a person practices yoga on the bow

It’s essential to be prepared and informed about the best practices to maintain your health while on the water. Simple measures can make a significant difference, allowing you to prevent common issues and promote overall wellness during your aquatic escapades.

1) Wear a Life Jacket

When out on the water, wearing a life jacket is essential. It provides buoyancy, helping you stay afloat if you unexpectedly end up in the water. No matter your swimming ability, a life jacket can make a critical difference in emergency situations.

Modern life jackets are designed for comfort and come in various styles. Choose one that fits well and meets safety standards. Ensure it is appropriate for your weight and size to maximize its effectiveness.

Always check the condition of your life jacket before heading out. Look for any signs of wear or damage, and make sure all straps are secure. A well-maintained life jacket is key to ensuring your safety.

Encourage everyone in your group to wear a life jacket. Lead by example, especially with children, to instill the importance of water safety. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

2) Hydrate with Water Bottles

A table with 7 water bottles, fruits, and a yoga mat. Sunlight streams in through a window, casting a warm glow

When spending time on the water, it's easy to underestimate how quickly you can become dehydrated.

Pack plenty of water bottles and keep them within reach. Aim to drink at least eight ounces every hour.

Consider using insulated water bottles. They help keep your water cool even in hot weather.

Reusable water bottles are an eco-friendly choice. Many come with filters that can ensure you have clean drinking water.

Remember, soda or alcohol don’t hydrate you. Stick to water to maintain your hydration levels.

3) Apply Waterproof Sunscreen

A bottle of waterproof sunscreen being squeezed onto a hand, with a boat and water in the background

When you're spending time on the water, your skin is exposed to direct sunlight and reflective surfaces. It's essential to protect your skin by applying waterproof sunscreen.

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays.

Apply the sunscreen generously on all exposed skin areas. Don't forget places like the ears, back of the neck, and tops of your feet.

Reapply every two hours, especially if you are swimming or sweating. Even waterproof sunscreens lose their effectiveness after a while.

Remember, it's not just about avoiding sunburn. Proper sunscreen use can help prevent long-term skin damage and lower your risk of skin cancer.

Being diligent with sunscreen not only keeps your skin healthy but also enhances your overall enjoyment of water activities. Carry a bottle with you at all times to make reapplication easy.

4) Follow Safe Boating Rules

Safety on the water is crucial for an enjoyable experience. Always wear a life jacket, regardless of your swimming ability. Life jackets provide essential buoyancy and can save lives in unexpected situations.

Check the weather before heading out. Sudden changes in weather can create dangerous conditions. Be prepared to modify your plans if necessary.

Avoid alcohol while operating a boat. Drinking impairs your ability to make quick decisions and react to emergencies. Boating under the influence can lead to accidents and severe consequences.

Make sure your boat is equipped with necessary safety gear. This includes fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, and signaling devices. Regularly inspect these items to ensure they are in working order.

Inform someone about your plans. Let a friend or family member know where you are going and when you expect to return. This information can be vital for search and rescue operations if something goes wrong.

Follow navigation rules and markers. These guidelines prevent collisions and mishaps. Understanding right-of-way and other boating signals helps avoid confusion on the water.

Take a boating safety course. Whether you're new to boating or an experienced sailor, these courses offer valuable information. Knowledge of laws, emergency procedures, and boat handling can greatly enhance your safety.

By following these rules, you contribute to a safer and more enjoyable boating environment for everyone.

5) Use Polarized Sunglasses

Polarized sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes on the water. They reduce glare caused by sunlight reflecting off the water's surface. This allows you to see more clearly and comfortably throughout the day.

These sunglasses also help in distinguishing between different objects in the water. This can be crucial for safe navigation and spotting potential hazards. Enhanced visibility can improve both your performance and enjoyment of water activities.

In addition to safety, polarized lenses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. Prolonged exposure to UV light can cause damage to your eyes. Wearing polarized sunglasses can significantly reduce the risk of these potential health issues.

Investing in a quality pair of polarized sunglasses is a wise choice. Look for options with anti-scratch coatings and durable frames. These features can provide longer-lasting protection and comfort for your eyes.

Polarized sunglasses come in various styles and price points. Consider your specific needs and preferences when selecting a pair. Finding the right fit can enhance your overall experience on the water.

6) Limit Alcohol Consumption

Consuming alcohol can impair your judgment and coordination, which is crucial when you're on the water. Even small amounts can increase the risk of accidents and injuries.

Alcohol also dehydrates your body, making you more susceptible to the effects of sun and heat. This can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, both serious conditions.

Additionally, drinking alcohol can enhance the feeling of seasickness. Staying sober ensures that you remain alert and can better handle bumpy conditions on the water.

Designate a sober skipper. If you’re part of a group, make sure at least one person remains alcohol-free to manage the vessel safely.

Keep plenty of non-alcoholic beverages on hand, like water, iced tea, or natural fruit juices, to help quench your thirst and keep you hydrated.

Always be aware of the legal limits regarding alcohol and boating in your area. Penalties for boating under the influence can be severe, including fines and even imprisonment.

Encourage your friends and family to limit their alcohol consumption as well. Responsible behavior on the water ensures everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.

7) Keep a First Aid Kit Handy

Always carry a well-stocked first aid kit when you're on the water. Accidents can happen, and having a first aid kit can help you handle minor injuries quickly.

Include essential items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and adhesive tape. Pain relievers and motion sickness tablets can also be useful.

Make sure to check the kit regularly. Replace any expired supplies to ensure everything is ready for use.

It's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the contents. Knowing what’s in your kit and how to use it can save valuable time in an emergency.

Store the first aid kit in a dry place. Ensure it's easily accessible, but secure enough that it won't get lost or damaged.

Hydration and Nutrition

To maintain your health on the water, proper hydration and balanced nutrition are crucial. Keeping well-hydrated and eating a balanced diet ensures you can perform your best and stay safe.

Importance of Staying Hydrated

Dehydration can set in quickly when out on the water due to sun exposure and physical exertion. Always have plenty of water on hand, aiming to drink at least 8-10 cups throughout the day.

Caffeine and alcohol can increase dehydration, so it's better to limit these beverages. Electrolyte-rich drinks can also be beneficial, especially during prolonged activities or in extremely hot conditions. Include fruits such as oranges and watermelons in your diet, as they have high water content and can help with hydration.

Balanced Diet on the Water

Maintaining a balanced diet is essential to keep your energy levels stable. Focus on protein-rich foods like lean meats, fish, eggs, and nuts which provide sustained energy.

Include complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, vegetables, and legumes to maintain energy throughout the day. Don't forget healthy fats, which can be found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil.

Snacks like nuts, fruit, and yogurt can provide quick energy boosts. Proper meal planning ensures you get the nutrients needed for endurance and recovery.

Sun Protection

Proper sun protection is crucial for staying healthy on the water. Focus on applying effective sunscreen and wearing appropriate clothing and accessories to minimize sun exposure.

Effective Sunscreen Usage

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Broad-spectrum protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply it generously to all exposed skin areas, including often-missed spots like the ears, back of the neck, and tops of the feet.

Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you are sweating heavily or swimming. Use a water-resistant sunscreen for prolonged water activities to ensure lasting protection. Cream-based sunscreens are often more reliable than sprays, which can miss spots or blow away in the wind.

Check the expiration date regularly and replace old sunscreen to ensure maximal effectiveness. Keep an extra bottle in your boat or beach bag for easy access.

Protective Clothing and Accessories

Opt for UPF-rated clothing, which provides extra protection against harmful UV rays. Long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats are effective at shielding your skin.

Wear lightweight, light-colored fabrics to stay cool while protecting your skin. Sunglasses with 100% UV protection are essential for protecting your eyes. Wrap-around styles offer the best coverage from reflective water surfaces.

Consider using a rash guard or swim shirt with a built-in UPF rating, especially during peak sun exposure hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Always have a spare set of dry clothing to change into if yours become wet and lose some of their protective ability.

Physical Safety

Maintaining physical safety on the water involves both practicing proper boating techniques and being prepared for emergencies.

Safe Boating Practices

Always wear a life jacket. It's the most critical safety measure and should fit properly. Ensure all passengers have one, especially children.

Navigation rules are essential. Familiarize yourself with local waterways and follow speed limits. Avoid alcohol while operating the boat; intoxication significantly increases accident risks.

Regular maintenance of your boat is crucial. Check the engine, fuel levels, and safety equipment like flares and fire extinguishers.

Keep a first aid kit on board. Minor injuries can escalate without immediate attention.

Emergency Preparedness

Plan for emergencies by storing a waterproof communication device. A VHF marine radio is reliable for distress signals.

Perform regular drills with all passengers. They should know how to use safety equipment and what to do in different scenarios, such as man overboard or fires.

Designate a float plan. Inform someone onshore about your trip details, including departure and return times. This helps authorities respond quickly in emergencies.

Stay updated with the local weather forecast. Sudden changes can create hazardous conditions, so be ready to alter plans if necessary.