Monthly Archives: November 2025

Your On-Board Emergency Kit: What To Pack for On-the-Water First Aid

Boating is one of life’s great pleasures, but even the calmest day on the water can turn unpredictable. Having a well-stocked first-aid kit on board ensures you’re ready for minor injuries or medical issues until professional help arrives. Here’s what to include in your on-the-water emergency kit.

Essential First-Aid Supplies

Start with the basics: adhesive bandages, sterile gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, medical tape, tweezers, scissors, and disposable gloves. Include a digital thermometer and instant cold packs for treating minor cuts, scrapes, and bruises. A waterproof first-aid manual is also a smart addition, especially for situations where communication may be limited.

Medications and Ointments

Pack pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, seasickness tablets, and antihistamines for allergic reactions. Include hydrocortisone cream for insect bites, antibiotic ointment for preventing infection, and aloe vera gel for sunburn relief. If anyone in your group requires prescription medication, store extra doses in a waterproof container.

Marine-Specific Items

Because water introduces unique risks, include items tailored to boating. Saline solution can rinse saltwater or debris from eyes and wounds. A space blanket helps prevent hypothermia, while a tourniquet and elastic bandages can manage more serious injuries until help arrives. Consider adding a waterproof flashlight, emergency whistle, and signaling mirror for visibility and communication.

Storage and Maintenance

Keep all supplies in a durable, waterproof container labeled “First Aid.” Store it in an easily accessible location, and check expiration dates every season. Replace used or outdated items promptly. Your preparedness can make a crucial difference when emergencies strike offshore.

Colling Insurance Services Inc. Is Proud To Provide Boat Insurance to Lakewood, CO

At Colling Insurance Services Inc., our team is here to make sure you’re protected on the water. We’re proud to serve residents of Lakewood, CO. Contact our team to learn more about our boat insurance services.

Will Umbrella Insurance Pay for a Car Seat After an Accident?

Many people in Lakewood, CO, have umbrella insurance to help protect their assets. However, it’s essential to understand how it works and what your policy will cover before an emergency, such as a car accident, occurs. 

Umbrella Insurance Is Secondary Insurance

Umbrella policies don’t immediately kick in to pay for damages. Instead, your auto policy will kick in first. Then, if there isn’t enough coverage, your umbrella policy will usually pay for the rest. For example, if you’re responsible for $90,000 in property damage, but your auto insurance only covers $50,000, your umbrella policy will likely pay for the remaining $40,000 (or up to your policy limit). 

Liability Insurance

These policies are a form of liability insurance. Liability insurance will pay for the other person’s damages or bodily injury if you’re at fault in an accident. It doesn’t pay for your personal property, ilike damages to your car or car seat. Because of that, it’s unlikely to pay for a new car seat after an accident. There are other options, though. 

Options Available

Always check with an agent at Colling Insurance Services Inc. to learn more about your coverage. Your policy may pay for your car seat if the other driver is found to be at fault but doesn’t have enough coverage. Some auto policies will automatically reimburse you for a new car seat, too. It’s best to speak with a professional to see what options you have. 

Here at Colling Insurance Services Inc., we understand the importance of keeping your children safe and following safety guidelines for replacing a car seat after an accident. Our agents will work with you to learn more about your policies. Contact us to speak with a representative. We’re currently serving the Lakewood, CO, area.