With the traditional start to boating season happening this Memorial Day weekend, the Water Sports Foundation is helping boaters prepare and stay safe on the water with some important boating tips.
“Memorial Day weekend traditionally signals the start of the recreational boating season,” says Jim Emmons, executive director of the Water Sports Foundation. “So many magical moments happen on the water each summer, creating memories that boating families cherish for a lifetime. To get the most fun out of your time on the water, be sure to plan well in advance and always make safety a top priority.”
Top Eight Boating Safety Tips for Memorial Day Weekend … and Summer of 2026
- Take a Boater Safety Course – A boating course is the best way to improve your knowledge and brush up your skills. Visit watersportsfoundation.com/media/boating-safety-education/ for a list of boating safety education resources.
- Wear a Life Jacket – The U.S. Coast Guard reports 86% of boating drowning victims were not wearing life jackets. Always wear a properly fitted life jacket and make one available for everyone in the boat.
- Never Boat Under the Influence – The U.S. Coast Guard reports alcohol use is the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. Don’t drink and drive: always designate a sober skipper!
- Use the Engine Cutoff Switch – It’s the law! The engine cutoff switch, which is attached to the operator with a lanyard, will immediately stop the boat’s engine should the operator move away from the helm or fall overboard.
- Check the Weather Before Departure – The National Weather Service advises boaters to always monitor marine forecasts before and during outings.
- Carry Reliable Communication Devices – Don’t rely on a cell phone alone. A VHF radio is the best way to communicate with the U.S. Coast Guard, local authorities and other boats.
- File a Float Plan – Make sure to share a detailed description of your boat’s make, model and registration number, the names of all on board, and the planned trip itinerary with a trusted family member, friend, or marina staff before departure.
- Communicate with Your Crew – Before leaving the dock, the boat operator should hold a short safety briefing to point out the location of safety gear; assign a spotter for watersports activity; and discuss rules about seating and movement while underway.
Before you set out on the water this summer, consider a complimentary vessel safety check provided by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary in your area. In only 15-30 minutes, the auxiliary will verify all safety equipment is up-to-date and operational, and provide a written summary of how to correct any compliance concerns.
“Memorial Day Weekend brings heavier traffic to the waterways and may include first-time operators,” adds Emmons. “Use an extra dose of patience and caution. You’ll have more fun and so will everyone else on the water.”
For more information, visit watersportsfoundation.com.
PHOTO CREDIT: Memorial Day is part of the busiest boating weekend of the year. To make the most of magic moments on the water, the Water Sports Foundation (WSF) encourages boaters to follow important safety tips like always wearing a life jacket and designating a sober skipper. For more ways to stay safe on the water, please visit https://tinyurl.com/39uxwhy4/.
