Safety, safety, safety. That is the number one rule in boating with children. Children push the envelope of the unexpected. If it can physically happen, a child will find a way to do it. You probably won't expect your child to reach over the boat to get the coke can he dropped - OR to turn the key of the boat to see what might happen. But he will. So expect the unexpected - and then go beyond that.

• All children must be sitting while the boat is in motion.

• Everyone on the boat, including you, must be wearing a personal floatation device.

• Show your children where the safety equipment, such as the radio, first aid kit and flares. Teach them how to safely use this equipment, keeping it appropriate to their ages.

• Bring plenty of snacks and drinks on your outing, plus a gallon of water for each person on the boat.

• Secure everything on the boat, including clothing such as jackets and hats. Follow safe boating procedures.

• Be fully prepared to treat cuts, bruises and even unexpected hooks in your children.

• Keep extra clothes on the boat, stored and sealed in a bag.

• Always prepare for the cold, even on seemingly warm days. Have the children layer their clothing.

• Do not bring extra toys and items on the boat. They can be distracting, and can also hazardous.

• Keep your outing to a reasonable amount of time. Long trips can cause both fatigue in you and your children.

• One adult to six children is danger looking for a place to happen. Always have enough adults to watch the children, and never overload your boat.

• Bring extra medication, such as inhalers, epipens or insulin.

• Keep both a radio and cell phone on the boat. Teach the children how to use them.