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Safety First
- Wear your life jacket: Always have one for each passenger, and make sure kids wear theirs at all times.
- Check the weather: Summer storms can come quickly. Always check the marine forecast before heading out.
- Know your limits: Don’t push your boat—or your crew—beyond what’s safe or comfortable.
Preparation Tips
- Do a pre-departure checklist: Check fuel, engine, safety gear, registration, and electronics.
- Tell someone your float plan: Let a friend or family member know your route and expected return time.
- Bring a well-stocked safety kit: Include flares, a whistle, a fire extinguisher, a flashlight, and a first aid kit.
Beat the Heat
- Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water (more than you think you’ll need).
- Bring shade: A bimini top, wide-brimmed hats, or umbrellas can help protect against the sun.
- Use (and reapply) sunscreen: Water reflects UV rays, so sunburns happen faster on the water.
Boat Care
- Rinse your boat after saltwater use: Prevent corrosion by washing off salt deposits.
- Inspect bilge pumps: Summer boating often means more use—make sure your pump is working.
- Check for invasive species: Clean your boat before switching bodies of water to prevent the spread.
Comfort and Fun
- Pack snacks and light meals: Especially if you’ll be out for more than a few hours.
- Bring music—but respect the peace: Waterproof Bluetooth speakers are great, but keep volumes friendly.
- Have a swim ladder ready: If you anchor and want to swim, a ladder makes re-boarding much easier.
Fuel Smart
- Follow the 1/3 rule: Use one-third of your fuel to go out, one-third to return, and keep one-third in reserve.
- Fuel early in the day: Docks can get crowded and fuel can expand in the heat.
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