What could be better than cruising calm waters under trees festooned with year-end leaves? Boating in the fall carries added safety hazards, such as frequent storms and oceans, rivers, and even lakes can be trickier to navigate.

Tips for Fall Boating Safety

Follow these five tips when you're planning fall boating trips:

  1. Always ensure somebody on shore knows the complete trip itinerary. This includes the planned destination, time of return and always update the contact by cell phone or radio if plans change. Darkness falls quickly in fall, so expect to navigate by charts. You'll need up-to-date charts in paper and electronic form, just to be safe. Local buoys and markers you'd expect to find in summer are likely removed by October, so you won't be able to depend on them to navigate. Err on the side of caution when planning your boat trip. That way your shore contact is unlikely to have to call for emergency support on your behalf
  2. Check weather forecasts before your departure and consider postponing trips if severe squalls are expected. Weather conditions can change in moments in fall, so make the most of advance forecasts to plan a safe day.
  3. Make sure everyone on board is wearing life jackets and briefed on man overboard drill. It's not difficult to prepare in the event of emergency. If all crew members are aware of procedures, team spirit and confidence is boosted. It may only be a legal requirement for kids under 13 to wear life jackets, but adults face similar risks if they fall overboard
  4. Check the correct flares are on board and they are not past expiration date
  5. Pack a change of clothing for everybody, alongside an emergency thermal blanket. Fall waters are chilly, and prolonged dips can cause hypothermia in worst case scenarios.

Wearing several layers of clothes and carry rain gear is another important factor for every crew member to consider. And finally, check your boat thouroughly before you leave and making sure navigation lights are operational. This is something any responsible boat owner would do; no matter what season they hit the water.

Happy fall boating!