How to Boat Safely
Before heading out on the water for a day of boating or other water sport activity, review this checklist to ensure a fun & safe adventure!
- Prepare your gear. Before leaving the dock, make sure you and your guests have the safety equipment required for the day ahead. Review our list “What to Pack” on the inside of this brochure.
- Check the forecast. The weather can change quickly, so it is important to look at the forecast, not to just look at the current state of the weather .
- File a float plan. A written statement including a description of your boat, who is on board, a list of safety equipment you’re carrying, where you expect to be, and when you expect to return. Leave your float plan with a friend, family member or even the dock master at your marina.
- Complete a passenger briefing. Acquaint your passengers with the location of safety information and equipment on board, including life jackets. Ensure a properly fitted life jacket is worn by each passenger.
- Check your lines. Inspect the dock lines to make sure they are in good condition, carry two or three extra dock lines and have at least one anchor set-up and bent-on to your anchor line.
- Have a safety plan for re-boarding your vessel. What’s your plan for bad weather or other emergencies? Be sure to have either a swim ladder, platform or lifting harness on board.
