Learn to swim.  This includes anyone participating in any boating activity.

Alcohol and boating don't mix.  Alcohol impairs your judgement, balance, and coordination -- over 50 percent of drowning results from boating incidents involving alcohol.  Balance is one of the first things you lose when you consume alcohol, and when you combine this with the rocking of the boat, the chance of falling overboard increases.

Wear a life jacket.  Florida Law requires anyone participating in any boating activity (canoeing, kayaking, wave running, boating, skiing, etc.).  To ensure the best performance, the jacket should fit snuggly and buckles; zippers and snaps should be fastened.

Develop a boat trip plan.  Give a responsible person details about where you will be and how long you will be gone.  This is important in case your boat is delayed because of an emergency, becomes lost, or encounters other problems.  Make sure they have a complete description of the vessel and other information that will make identification easier.

Watch the weather.  Check weather warnings and forecasts before leaving shore and while at sea.

Prepare for a boat fire.  Most boat fires can be put out rapidly if you act immediately.  Having a fully charged fire extinguisher on hand is vital.  Take the time to make sure that you and those who boat with you regularly know and understand exactly how to use the fire extinguisher.  To prevent boat fires take the following precautions: clean bilges often and maintain proper gear stowage; make sure short-tie cables are properly connected; place oily rags in covered trash cans or dispose of them on shore; and store propane fuel for stoves in a secure area.