Before heading out on Alaska’s water this weekend, officials urge everyone to follow critical boating safety tips to stay safe. The Alaska Department of Natural Resources advises checking weather tide charts and local conditions before launching your boat.
After assessing conditions, boaters should make a firm go or no-go decision based on real risk, not just plans or pressure. If they decide to go, officials recommend filing a float plan with a friend or relative who can contact help if needed.
This float plan should list your boat details, route passenger names, expected return time, and emergency contact instructions. Alaska’s experts also stress the importance of bringing proper safety gear, life jackets, distress signals, emergency radios, and a working reboarding device.
Passengers should double-check that this gear is present and in working condition even if they aren’t the boat’s operator. The safety tips could prevent tragedy and help ensure a safe, memorable weekend outdoors.
