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A life shaped by water.
Water Safety Checklist
Run this before every outing
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Wear it: a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket for every person — check the label and do the fit test.
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Check it: the marine or local forecast, wind, water temperature and any lightning risk.
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Tell someone: where you're launching, your route and when you'll be back.
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Carry it: a whistle, a light if you could be out near dusk, a charged phone in a waterproof case, water and sun protection.
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Dress for the water: plan for immersion, not the air temperature — cold water shock is the first danger.
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Know your limits: stay within swimming distance of shore until your skills and conditions say otherwise, and never mix alcohol with boating.
Read the full guide: The Water Safety Checklist to Run Before Every Outing, plus Life Jacket Types Explained and Cold Water Shock and the 1-10-1 Rule.
