Keep Dad happy and safe on Father’s Day

Father’s Day is approaching and if your dad is a boater, like mine was, a new gadget for his boat just may be the perfect gift.

There are many gadgets on the market that are not only fun, but can also provide a little extra boating safety for passengers and Dad, while on board the family vessel.

In no particular order, here are a few items that may make Dad smile on June 17:

–          Portable/Handheld GPS means your dad will know his location all the time

–          A Weather Station will give everyone on board heads up of weather conditions

–          Keeping his cool will be easy with an Ice Cream Ball, just add Dad’s favorite flavor and cream in one end and rock salt and ice in the other, then roll it around the cockpit for 30 minutes for a homemade treat

–           Keep Dad and those on board safe with the Autotether Wireless Lanyard and some Safety Line in case he or someone else goes overboard, the boat will shut down and the extra line will help get the person in the water back on board

–          The Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) can prove to be life-saving in the event of a real emergency by notifying rescuers of your location while a Personal Locator Beacon (PLBs) is carried one’s person

–          A Navigational Kit, like the Weems & Path 100 Marine Navigation Coast Guard Tool Kit has everything a boater needs to navigate his vessel and it contains USCG approved items such as an ultralight divider / compass, nautical slide rule, and more

–          A Solar Powered Flashlight or a Magnetic Flashlight would keep the light burning either with the power of the sun for one or just by shaking the other, no recharging needed for years

–          Having a Handheld VHF Radio on board is not only recommended by the USCG, it is just a good idea as they are more reliable on the water than your cell phone and in case of an emergency you will want a good signal

–          There are many different kinds of Floating Coolers, but the purpose is the same, to keep the beverages cool and your important belongings like IDs or wallets – dry

All of the above items can be found in a wide price range and are considered boating safety aids – all but the Ice Cream Ball and those are just plain tasty fun.

Whether as Father’s Day gifts or not, these are a few affordable gadgets which may help everyone onboard be a little safer.  The USCG and your boat insurance company will appreciate all you do for boating safety.