How to Beat the Heat and Survive Peak Summer Boating
We’re officially in the heart of summer, and these scorching August days are the perfect excuse to head for the beach, the pool, or (our personal favorite) the boat. Honestly, when the forecast starts creeping toward 90 degrees, we're all just looking for the nearest body of water.
The catch? It's easy to become dehydrated, overheated, or exhausted before you even realize it. Extreme heat affects everyone and can make things much more dangerous.
The good news is that a little preparation goes a long way. Here are a few simple tips to help everyone stay safe for the remainder of the summer.
Tip #1: Check Heat Risk
There is no single magic number where being outside suddenly becomes dangerous. The heat hits everyone differently, so it really depends on individual circumstances. Keep in mind that kids and adults over 65 are especially vulnerable. If you’ve got grandparents or toddlers on board, you want to take more precautions.
When checking the forecast, don't only look at the daily high. Pay attention to the Heat Index, which factors in humidity. Then there's something boaters know all too well: the sun feels stronger on the water.
Our advice: Check the National Weather Service's HeatRisk tool.
Tip #2: Lock Down Hydration
A hot day on the water doesn't mean you have to cancel your plans, but it does mean you should be more careful. The easiest way to do that? Drink more water than you think you need.
Pack plenty of it, and start drinking early and throughout the day. Don't wait until you're already thirsty. That's your body's way of telling you it's already dehydrated and playing catch-up.
Our advice:
- Always keep a water bottle on you.
- Encourage everyone on board (especially kids who get distracted swimming) to take water breaks.
- Bonus points for adding electrolytes to your water.
Tip #3: Shade and Sunscreen
The sun can feel completely relentless when you're out on open water, especially during those peak afternoon hours. That’s when shade and sunscreen are your best friends.
The goal is simple: limit your time in direct sunlight whenever possible.
Our advice:
- Put your bimini top up before leaving the dock. You'll be much more likely to use it if it's already there.
- Wear a hat to keep the sun off your face. Sun shirts are also recommended.
- Don't forget to apply and reapply your sunscreen. Slapping some on once at 10 AM does absolutely nothing for you by 2 PM. Be sure to reapply every two hours.
