Pontoon boats, such as Manitou boats, are a fantastic way for families to enjoy the water, offering stability, comfort, and plenty of space for everyone to relax. However, safety should always be a top priority, especially when boating with children. Ensuring that your trip is both fun and secure requires preparation, awareness, and adherence to safety best practices. Here are the most important pontoon boat safety tips for families and kids.

Ensure Everyone Wears a Life Jacket

The most essential rule for family boating is that everyone should wear a life jacket. Children, in particular, should always have a properly fitted life jacket designed for their weight and size. Even if adults choose not to wear a life jacket at all times, kids should never be without one when on or near the water.

Establish Clear Safety Rules

Before heading out, set clear safety guidelines for kids, such as:

No running on the boat.

Always wear a life jacket.

Stay seated while the boat is in motion.

Keep hands and feet inside the boat at all times.

By setting expectations early, you reduce the risk of accidents.

Teach Kids Basic Water Safety

Children should understand basic water safety skills, such as floating on their backs, treading water, and what to do if they fall overboard. Practising these skills before your trip can help kids feel more confident and prepared.

Use Proper Boat Seating & Supervision

Pontoons have open spaces, which can be tempting for some kids to move around. Ensure they are seated securely when the boat is moving, and always have an adult supervising them. If you have infants or toddlers, consider using a playpen-style enclosure for added safety. Install pontoon accessories that are safe for children.

Be Cautious with Swimming and Boarding

Many families love anchoring their pontoon to swim, but safety precautions must be followed:

Turn off the engine before anyone enters or exits the water.

Use a boarding ladder for easy re-entry.

Assign a designated "water watcher" to keep an eye on swimmers.

Be aware of strong currents or deep water.

Avoid Overcrowding

Each pontoon boat has a weight capacity. Overloading the boat can cause it to become unstable, increasing the risk of tipping. Follow manufacturer guidelines to ensure safe weight distribution and a comfortable ride.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

Always keep a fully stocked emergency kit onboard, including:

• A first-aid kit
• Fire extinguisher
• Emergency whistle or horn
• Throwable flotation device
• A waterproof phone case  or marine radio for communication

Being prepared ensures you can handle any unexpected situation.

Watch for Weather Changes

Before setting out, check the weather forecast. Sudden storms can create rough waters, making it unsafe for kids and families. If you notice dark clouds, increasing winds, or lightning, head back to shore immediately.

Follow Boating Laws and Navigation Rules

Familiarise yourself with local boating regulations, speed limits, and no-wake zones. Teaching kids about safe boating practices helps them understand why rules exist and keeps everyone safe.

A family trip on a pontoon boat can create lifelong memories, but safety must come first. Enjoy your time boating while keeping your family safe!