Night boating is something that is fun to do, but you need to make sure you know all the safety precautions to use in order to keep you and others safe out on the water.
Slow Down
After dusk, boating speed needs to be no wake speed. This is the law in most places and is something that should never be broken because of the visibility at night.
Have More Than Just the Driver Being on the Lookout
Of course the driver is going to be the one paying most attention, but it is always a smart idea to have someone else on the boat also being on the lookout.
Dim Onboard Lights & Turn Off Docking Lights
Onboard lights can affect your ability to see what is in front of you. Be sure these are dimmed or turned completely off since they're not always necessary. Also be sure that your docking lights (the white "headlights" at the front of your boat) are turned off when you are out on the water. The only time you use these is when you are parking your boat on the lift.
Turn on the Correct Night Boating Lights
Make sure your red and green lights on the front of your boat are on and also make sure you have your light pole plugged in on the rear end of the boat. This makes sure that other boaters can see you from the front and the back.
Use Your Ears
Sure you use your radio during the daylight, but using your radio at night isn't nearly as safe. Since it is so dark out, it may be a good idea to turn down or off the radio and just listen to the serenity and peace Mother Nature provides.
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