Travelers, a leading provider of boat and yacht insurance.”Substantially more people are on the water during the summer, so that is the time boaters should be extra careful to protect their family, friends and watercraft from a loss,” said of AIC Insurance Agency. “It’s also a good time to review your boat and yacht insurance with an independent agent to be sure you have adequate coverage.”AIC Insurance Agency recommends the following boat safety tips:Wear a life jacket: 80 percent of drowning victims were not wearing a PFD (Personal Flotation Device) or life jacket.

Take a boating course: Even if your state does not mandate the completion of a boating course prior to obtaining your boating license, both you and your passengers will benefit from a formalized course. To learn more about boating safety classes, visit www.cgaux.org/cgauxweb/classes/master.shtml. Schedule a vessel safety check: The Coast Guard auxiliary offers free safety checks. For more information, visit www.vesselsafetycheck.org/getvsc or call 1-800-368-5647.Equip your boat with an emergency kit and be familiar with how to use each of the items.

Coast Guard-approved throw able PFD, such as a life ring or a horseshoe. Organize an emergency plan and make sure that passengers are familiar with it. Remember to test equipment and be knowledgeable of the suggested guidelines for usage and replacement.Be prepared for the weather: Check the weather forecast before going on the water and be equipped for changes.Know where you are: The Coast Guard recommends having charts, a GPS (Global Positioning System) and a reliable means of communication on board.

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