Crisp Weather Boating

Labor Day has come and gone and many boaters have retired for the season. However, this time of year often offers up the best boating – warm temperatures, light breezes, clear water, and less boat traffic. While the conditions can be close to ideal, there are a few things to keep in mind to enjoy the experience to the fullest. One, if you’re an afternoon boater, consider leaving the dock and returning a bit earlier in the day to allow yourself a  time safety buffer before the earlier sunsets. Two, check the weather on your marine radio even before departure to understand what could possibly develop.  Three, make sure your safety gear – anchor, flares, horn, etc. is in good working order and that all of the crew knows where it is located. Four, encourage people to wear PFDs to lessen the impact of any man-overboard situations in the cooling water. Five, file a float plan so others know your planned route, and ETA. Considering these suggestions, along with other important points shared by knowledgeable local boaters, can help you safely enjoy what could be the best boating of the year.