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Rio Rancho, NM isn’t all desert and sand. The area surrounding the city boasts many opportunities for boat enthusiasts to get out on the water. These tips are designed to ensure new boat owners stay safe, follow the rules, and have fun while they’re getting comfortable at the helm.
- Enroll in a boater’s safety course. The Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department of New Mexico (EMNRD) provides access to approved courses. Throughout the course, you will learn essential skills like interpreting traffic signs along waterways, how to equip your vessel for various activities, and what to do if an emergency happens.
- Check the status of your boater’s insurance policy. Your boater’s insurance policy covers your liability if an accident occurs with your boat. This includes medical payments, repairs to your vehicle, and damage to the property of others. Talk to an agent at Franklin Insurance Agency before your first launch to ensure your watercraft is fully protected.
- Get familiar with your rig. Even after a few training classes, you need some time to get comfortable with the way your boat operates. Take a close look at the location of gauges, lights, radios, and compasses. Locate important accessories like detectors, extinguishers, emergency radios, and first aid kits. Walk around and decide where you will store things like clothing, food items, and leisure equipment.
- Practice backing up before getting to the ramp. It is poor boating etiquette to use the ramp for too long. If you’ve never backed a boat into the water before, spend some time practicing in the parking lot before taking your place in line for the ramp.
Franklin Insurance Agency helps boat enthusiasts in the Rio Rancho, NM area protects their aquatic toys with insurance. Contact our representatives to learn more about customized boat insurance.