The fall season is great because it means cooler weather and less sun rays bearing down on you. It also means better fishing opportunities and beautiful fall foliage scenery.
Read our blog, “What To Do In Severe Weather“
However, the change of season also means more responsibility and taking precautions in your boating routine. Here are 5 Fall Boating Safety Tips to keep in mind when you go boating in the fall season:
- Dress for the water. Dropping outdoor temperatures, dropping water temperatures and high winds can make for a dangerous situation. A spill overboard is much more dangerous in the fall and winter months due to the temperature of the water so practice precaution.
- Check the weather. This a big safety tip. Make sure you familiarize yourself with the area in which you will be boating and thoroughly check the weather beforehand so you’re prepared for any type of situation. Be sure to wear a lifejacket.
- Always tell someone where you’ll be. It’s very important to communicate with friends and family where you will be boating, what time you will be leaving and what time you’re expecting to return.
- Check the boat. As a Carefree member, this precaution is taken care of. However, if you’re a boat owner it’s important to check the bilge, pump, engine and communications equipment before you head out to make sure they’re in good working condition.
- Track the day length. Keep in mind as we enter into the winter months there are less hours of daylight. You should become familiar with what time it starts to get dark and plan to dock before it gets too late. Bring a headlamp with extra batteries in case you get caught in the dark.
Read our blog, “Anchoring At Night“
Images and Sources: NRS, The Allstate Blog, Thinkstock
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