A great day at Muscamoot Bay starts with smart decisions on the water. Crowds, weather, and long days in the sun can turn small mistakes into serious problems. These are the basics every boater should follow.
Have a Sober Operator
Never operate a boat under the influence.
Alcohol affects judgment, balance, reaction time, and awareness. On the water, those effects hit harder due to sun, wind, motion, and fatigue.
Designate a sober operator before you leave the dock and stick to it.
File a Float Plan
Let someone on land know:
- where you’re going
- who is with you
- when you plan to return
If something goes wrong, this information can help emergency responders locate you faster.
Wear a Life Jacket
Make sure every person on board has access to a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
The most dangerous time to look for a life jacket is after something has already gone wrong.
Carry a Marine Radio
A VHF marine radio is one of the most reliable ways to call for help.
- Channel 16 is the distress channel monitored by the Coast Guard
- Cell phones can lose signal or give inaccurate location data
If you boat regularly, a radio is a must-have.
Stay Aware on the Water
Muscamoot Bay gets busy, especially during peak weekends and events.
- Watch for other boats, swimmers, and floating hazards
- Keep a safe distance when tying off
- Pay attention to changing weather conditions
If something doesn’t look right, trust your instincts and act early.
Take a Safety Course or Vessel Check
Consider a boating safety course or a free vessel safety check through the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.
Its a simple way to:
- avoid issues before they happen
- make sure your boat is properly equipped
- understand current laws and best practices
