From MayoClinic.com:
Learn to swim
The American Red Cross offers swimming courses for everyone.
Take a boating-safety course
Topics typically include what to do in an emergency, navigation basics, and the effects of wind, water conditions and weather.
Wear a life jacket
Stock the boat with enough Coast Guard-approved life jackets for everyone on board.
Protect your passengers from carbon monoxide
Boat engines emit carbon monoxide, an odorless — but deadly — gas. To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, keep passengers away from the engine, both in the boat and in the water. If your boat has a gas engine to generate electricity — to run an air conditioner in a cabin, for example — make sure there's proper ventilation, and install carbon monoxide detectors in sleeping and living quarters.
Share your plans
Make sure someone on land knows where you plan to go and when you plan to return.
Avoid alcohol
Water sports and alcohol don't mix. Alcohol impairs judgment, balance and coordination — all essential for safe boating.
Watch the weather
Head back to shore if the skies look threatening.
