With Autumn weather comes cooler water temperatures. You may want to take the boat out one last time before putting it away until next boating season. Our friends at BoatUS Foundation has some great fall fishing and boating tips to keep you safe while out on the water.
Sunshine isn’t your friend: Don’t let the sunny day deceive you - while it may be T-shirt weather in the morning at the launch ramp or dock, the weather can change quickly during this time of year. Bring extra clothing to dress in layers and always bring foul weather gear.
Float your plan: The fishing hole of raft-up spot crowds may be gone, but that also means your closest potential rescuers are long gone too. A simple sharing of your float plan with family or friends letting them know where you’re going and when you’ll be back could save valuable time in locating you if something happens.
Murphy likes you: Does your boat have any lingering maintenance issues? This isn’t the time of year to find out. Ensure any problems - engine, fuel, charging systems, or safety issues such as navigation lights - are fixed before you go.
I’ve fallen and I can’t get up: A simple fall overboard can kill this time of year. Hypothermia is a real threat. By wearing your life jacket, if you do find yourself accidentally over the side you will float and have time to get back aboard, preferably with a knotted or looped rope attached to the gunnel or ladder that be reached from the water. If you’d like to see just how hard it is to get back in a boat, go to www.BoatUS.com/foundation/boardingladders.
Don’t leave without me: If you are alone and fall out, will the boat keep going? It won’t run away if you had your engine cutoff lanyard attached to you or use another type of shutdown device.
