5 Fall Boating Tips

As we head into the peak season of Fall, chances are you may be wanting to go out on your boat to enjoy the fall foliage from the water. The days are still sunny and the crisp autumn air invites you to take the boat out at least one more time. So we're passing along some fall boating safety tips from our friends at BoatUS.

• The sun is in your face and the breeze may be warm, but below the keel the water temperature has dropped. A simple fall overboard at this time of year can be a big problem if you can't get back into the boat. What is your plan to get back aboard, especially if you're boating solo? Wearing a life jacket can also buy you critical time to get back in the boat.
• You need to let someone know where you're going and what time you'll be back. That's because there are significantly fewer boaters on the water at this time of year to bail you out if there's trouble. A float plan left with family or friends is simple to do, and don't forget to check back in upon your return. Here's an easy, sample float plan: BoatUS.com/seaworthy/floatplan.asp.
• With temperature fluctuations, fog takes only a short time to appear. If you're headed out on the open water, carrying a compass and chart should be a bare minimum.
• Check your communications gear, including your VHF radio and all of its wired connections. If it is a Digital Selective Calling (DSC) VHF, have you connected the radio to your GPS/chartplotter and have you gotten your MMSI number? If not, rescuers won't be able to find you quickly. BoatUS offers this service for free at BoatUS.com/MMSI. Handheld VHFs should be fully charged before you go, and remember that cell phone batteries don't last as long when you're using fishing or charting apps.
• Layer up. It may be sunny when you head out, but a short rainsquall and temperature drop with clouds in the afternoon can serve up a case of hypothermia pretty quick. Be prepared for big swings in the weather.

5 Tips for Boating at Night

Are you planning a nighttime cruise on the water? With the crisp autumn air and the leaves changing colors, now might be the best time to take the boat out a few more times before putting it away for the winter.

If you get stuck on the water at night, or you plan a nighttime cruise, you should be able to make it back to the docks safely with these five tips.

Slow Down

Many waterways have slower nighttime speeds. This is a necessary precaution because the landmarks that you are familiar with can change or completely disappear at night which makes it easy to run off course. Debris big enough to damage your boat become invisible on the water. Play it safe, slow down.

Eliminate Distractions

Easy nighttime navigation can be done by reading subtle clues. To be able to read the clues, you will need make sure there is nothing that is distracting you. Lower your interior lights, lower your stereo, and pop your head over the windshield to reduce glare.

Careful With High Beams

You might think that headlights are the answer. Well, most boats only have docking lights which do not produce the power you need on the open water. If you have forward mounted, or spotlight flashlight, those can be helpful. Use them with care. They can confuse other boaters by overpowering your navigation lights, or blind an approaching captain.

Use A Compass

During the day make sure to note the heading on your compass when you are leaving your marina. It is easy to make sure you are going the opposite direction upon your return. As a reminder, never make a trip to unfamiliar destinations at night.

Learn The Lights

Every boater should know the combinations of red, green and white lights that tell you whether a boat is coming or going, and in what general direction. Make sure your own running lights are working properly.