People who take boat trips often fail to realize the potential disasters that can ensue if they are not careful and safe on-board their boat. Over 1,000 people die on boating trips per year, and many of the dangers associated with boating are easily preventable. In this article, we'll give some tips to help you to avoid the potential pitfalls that one may wake while operating a boat.

- When it comes to fueling up your boat, be sure to turn off all electricity and do NOT smoke. Keep everybody except the person doing the fueling off of the boat until the process is completed, and be sure that all fittings are tightly secured when you are finished. Also, be sure not to fill your tank past its capacity.

- If your boat has capsized, it's important to follow procedures to ensure the safety of all aboard. Remain calm, and ensure that everybody sticks together. Whenever possible, remain as close to the boat as you can, unless there is an inherent danger close by.

- Always be wary of alcohol consumption whilst on board. 9 out of 10 boating deaths are due to drowning and you are much more likely to fall out of the boat whilst intoxicated. Consequently, while under the influence, the body cannot efficiently warm itself as much as when you are sober. Also, intoxication can result in disorientation when under water, and you may not be able to determine which direction the surface is.

- If a fire takes place on board, the first thing that you need to do is stop moving the boat. The wind can whip the fire into a bigger problem than it already is. Turn off your electricity after radioing for help. If the fire is caused by wood, fabric, or another dry source, pour water on it. Oil and grease fires can be extinguished with an on-board fire extinguisher, and you should aim for the base of the fire while extinguishing.

- As silly as it may sound, many men drown in boating accidents due to the need to relieve themselves. They may lean off the side of the boat, hit a wave, and fall in. To alleviate this concern, it's best to keep a jug on the boat which you can empty and wash in the water when you're done. It can greatly decrease your risk of drowning while on-board.

Now that you know some of the basic methods for keeping yourself safe while out on the water, you can better protect yourself and your family. Be sure to follow all of the guidelines listed above, and you'll be much more confident in your boating safety.