Tips For Recreational Marine Insurance Marketing
For Marketers Knee Deep In Waders Or Just Starting To Get Their Feet Wet
by Robert L. Stewart
Between now and Memorial Day, tens of thousands of "summer sailors" will be readying their boats for the big season. They will be launching runabouts, sailboats and power yachts-watercraft that often represent a huge investment on the part of their owners, many of whom unfortunately, are not fully qualified to be at the helm. A surprising number are also not properly insured, which is why you'll see a lot of ads right about now at shore and resort areas.
A few years ago, we learned some interesting information about the mindset of many of these part time skippers. Many recognize that because they haven't studied manuals or been tested before launch, they could use some important information on seamanship. Yet, they are often disinclined to expose a lack of knowledge by signing up for Power Squadron courses, or doing some productive research. Therefore, we learned that those agents and brokers who made free information available, as part of their insurance pitch, fared much better than their counterparts who merely advised on coverage.
High on the list of appreciated information are safety rules and tips on accident prevention which we will pass along to you. And now on many waterways, there is a major crackdown on drinking alcoholic beverages while underway, so that, too, is worth a reminder to your marine insurance prospects.
Following are some fairly comprehensive "Water Survival Tips" which you may wish to pass along to your insureds or prospects-or offer it in your advertising, etc.
Surviving The Boating Season
General Maintenance: Unless you are experienced in repairing, maintaining and "summerizing" marine engines, it's wise to have it done professionally before the first launch of the season. Make certain that steering apparatus, including rudder, is in working condition. Check reverse as well as forward throttle positions. Be aware of all instruments and make sure they are functioning properly. Check compass at each point before getting underway the first time.
Equipment: Check all lights before a cruise-even a day trip. Have a personal flotation device (PFD) on board for each adult, as well as life jackets (to be worn at all times) for children under 10, inexperienced youthful swimmers and adult non-swimmers. An anchor with sufficient line to hold the boat. (Rule of thumb is 3x the depth of the deepest water in which you sail.) A built-in or portable horn is a must. Flares, a distress flag, a fully charged fire extinguisher, a flashlight, a basic tool kit, a boat hook and strong extra line (for towing) should always be on board. So should an operational ship-to-shore radio, with Coast Guard channel information.
Safety Rules
(A partial list): Check all-day weather/water conditions before cast-off. Make a sailing plan and leave a copy with somebody who can describe your boat, its name and registration number. Have updated charts on board. Don't leave children unattended. Pass oncoming boats port to port (your left to their left). Keep green channel markers to your right leaving port and to help you remember, the rule is "Red-Right-Return." Always stay within the markers. When in doubt, give the other boat the right of way. Be alert for swimmers, divers, skiers (and ski lines), as well as sail boats not under power, and smaller boats-they all have the right of way. Slow down when crossing wakes or approaching oncoming or anchored boats. Observe speed limits inside channels. Never exceed the speed you need for complete control.
Common Sense: Regardless of age, only trained, responsible persons should be at the helm. Learners must be carefully supervised and tested before they "solo" and re-tested before being allowed to take on passengers. Power Squadron courses are highly recommended for all. Set up "on-board rules" and make no exceptions. Follow weight capacity and number of persons limits. Know and follow all rules for refueling-including use of "blowers." Restrict swimming off the boat to advanced swimmers-at least one person capable of operating vessel should remain on board. Be aware of tide changes and currents, even when strong swimmers go in the water. The captain should refrain from alcoholic beverages before, and during, cruise. No horseplay. No "roughnecking" on board. Arms and legs should never be over the side, but especially never when docking or leaving the slip. Make certain everybody knows the location of life jackets and floatation equipment. Post a list of safety instructions and make sure they are read by/to all.