Hurricane season has begun, and with it comes potential for danger and destruction. Still, with warmer weather and open waters, it’s also a great time for summer boating. This can make an impending storm even more stressful due to the potential damage to boaters and boats.

A float plan is like leaving a note on the kitchen counter for your babysitter; it’s the boater’s version of a list of instructions on how to heat dinner, or a proposed plan for the day. A float plan is a safety precaution that you should prepare if you’re going to be out on the water for a while. Completing a plan before going out on the boat and leaving it with a reliable person is an important step to take, should they need to contact the Coast Guard or other rescue services.