Spring and summer are the busiest times of the year on the water. That means more boats, more traffic, and just more activity everywhere. And with that comes a little more responsibility when navigating and operating.

Don’t worry, we’re not here to ruin the fun. Instead, we want to share a few simple tips that can go a long way toward helping everyone have a safe, fun season ahead.

Expect More Traffic Than Usual

Summer boating means sharing the water with a lot more people. That means:

• Busier launches and marinas
• More congestion in channels
• Longer waits at the docks
• More new and occasional boaters on the water

Our advice? Expect things to move a little slower, give yourself some extra time, and don’t rush. A little patience goes a long way.

Slow Down and Watch Your Wake

With more boats on the water, wake awareness should be top of mind. As you approach other boats, docks and, marinas, reduce your speed and watch your wake.

It’s easy to forget when conditions are calm and you’re having a good time, but a little courtesy goes a long way. Your fellow boaters will thank you.

Be Patient at the Ramp and Dock

Look, nobody loves waiting at the launch ramp. But on busy boating days, patience is one of the best things you can bring with you.

Get your gear prepped before it’s your turn, stay aware of others around you, and if someone needs a hand docking or launching, help them out. Good ramp etiquette makes the day better for everyone.

Double Check Your Safety Gear

Speaking of getting your gear prepped, take five minutes before leaving the dock to do a quick safety check.

Make sure you have:

• Life jackets for everyone onboard
• A fire extinguisher
• Working navigation lights
• A horn or other sound-producing device
• Dock lines and fenders
• A charged battery
• Plenty of fuel

Keep an Eye on Conditions

Always, always, always check the weather before heading out. Summer boating isn’t only blue skies and glassy water. Conditions can change quickly, so it’s worth taking a minute to see what you’re working with before leaving the dock.

Check:

• Weather forecasts
• Wind conditions
• Wave conditions
• Visibility

Have Fun and Stay Safe This Season

And that concludes our safety speech. On behalf of all of us at SkiSafe: get out there and enjoy the season!