The Most Important Items for an Open Water Emergency Kit
Accidents on the open water can be incredibly dangerous. Not only may it take a while to get to shore, but you also may not have the supplies on hand to react quickly. If you want to avoid more serious injuries -- and potential legal liability -- you will want to keep a well-stocked watercraft.
Extra Water and Water Filters
Today there are many tools that are designed to desalinate water. In the event that you get stuck on the open water, one of your primary concerns will be dehydration. Keeping water and a water filter on hand will help.
Signal Mirrors
Signal mirrors are generally preferred over flares because they are not single use. A well-positioned signal mirror is extremely visible over the open water and will direct emergency personnel to a stuck watercraft.
Space Blankets
Temperature can drop dramatically during the night on the open water. Space blankets are designed to conserve energy, making it easier for passengers to keep warm. This can protect them from exposure and even frostbite if the waters are cold enough. In addition to this, space blankets can also help reflect the sun during the day.
Antibacterial Solution
There are many injuries that can happen when on open water, ranging from fish hooks to broken glass. Antibacterial solution can be used to reduce the risk of infection later on, which can be fairly serious even if you get back to shore quickly. Antibacterial creams also often serve a dual purpose of alleviating pain.
Sunscreen
The damage that the sun can do should never be underestimated. Whether a passenger has simply forgotten their own or you have become stranded, extra sunscreen will almost always come in handy. In the event that you are stranded in the sun for some time, sunscreen should be one of the first things tended to.
Dramamine
One of the most common issues boat passengers have is simple motion sickness. But even simple motion sickness could potentially have disastrous effects over time. Dramamine is a very simple medication with very few side effects that can ease nausea, and it has also been cleared for usage for pregnant women and children.
In addition to keeping a well-stocked emergency kit, it's important to have the right insurance. An accident on the water could lead to significant medical debt. If you have further questions about open water injuries, you can consult with a specialist attorney.
