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Water and Boats

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When filming on or near water:

  • Wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices (PFDs) whenever appropriate.
  • Ensure properly fitted life jackets are available for all personnel working from boats, docks, or floating platforms.
  • Keep only essential personnel near the water.
  • Maintain clear access for emergency responders.
  • Never work alone around water.

If working near rivers, lakes, oceans, or other natural bodies of water, evaluate:

  • Water depth
  • Current or tidal conditions
  • Wave activity
  • Underwater hazards
  • Water temperature
  • Weather conditions
  • Marine life
  • Safe entry and exit points

Boats and Watercraft

When using boats or other watercraft:

  • Never exceed the manufacturer’s passenger or weight limits.
  • Only essential personnel should be on board during filming.
  • Secure cameras and equipment to prevent shifting during movement.
  • Keep emergency flotation devices readily available.
  • Follow all federal, state, and local boating regulations.
  • Ensure the operator is qualified and familiar with the vessel.

Whenever possible, assign a dedicated safety person whose only responsibility is monitoring the safety of the vessel and its occupants.

Electrical Safety Around Water

Water and electricity are an extremely dangerous combination.

  • Only battery-powered (DC) equipment should be used in close proximity to water whenever possible.
  • Keep electrical equipment, cables, generators, and power distribution systems away from standing water.
  • Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection should be used whenever AC power is required near water.
  • Never handle electrical equipment while standing in water or with wet hands.

Water Safety Personnel

Additional safety personnel may be required depending on the production. A qualified lifeguard should be present whenever cast or crew members intentionally enter:

  • Swimming pools
  • Lakes
  • Rivers
  • Oceans
  • Beaches
  • Other bodies of water

Whenever underwater filming is planned, a certified safety diver should be present throughout filming. Depending on the complexity of the production, additional rescue personnel may also be required.

Emergency Preparedness

When filming around water:

  • Have a clearly identified emergency action plan.
  • Know the location of the nearest hospital or emergency medical facility.
  • Ensure emergency vehicles can access the filming location.
  • Keep communication devices readily available.
  • Have rescue equipment immediately accessible.

No shot is worth placing cast or crew members at unnecessary risk.

Student Responsibilities

Students planning to film on or around water must notify Production Services during pre-production. Depending on the scope of the production, additional insurance, permits, lifeguards, certified safety divers, rescue boats, or other safety personnel may be required before filming is approved.

Failure to disclose water activities during pre-production may delay or prevent production approval.

No performer should be required to enter water until they have been informed of the water temperature, depth, underwater hazards, and emergency rescue procedures.

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