The air may be getting crisper, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to stow away your boating gear. In fact, fall might just be the best-kept secret of the boating season. With cooler temperatures, calmer waterways, and stunning foliage, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the water whether you’re casting a line, taking a leisurely cruise, or simply soaking in the peace.

As daylight hours dwindle and temperatures dip, many boaters begin thinking about winterizing their vessels. Whether you’re ready to hang up your captain’s hat for the season or plan to stretch your time on the water a little longer, the Sea Tow Foundation^™ has your back.

For Boaters Still Enjoying the Water
If you’re not quite ready to say goodbye to the boating season, make sure you're adjusting your routines to stay safe and comfortable for the cooler months.

1. Check the Weather
Fall weather can be unpredictable, with sudden shifts in wind, temperature, and visibility. Make sure to check the latest marine weather forecasts before heading out.

2. Dress Smart
Start with a moisture-wicking base, add cozy fleece or wool for warmth, and a waterproof outer shell to block wind and spray. Don’t forget to pack a towel, extra layers for when the temperature drops, and a full change of clothes in a dry bag just in case.

Pro Tip: Cold weather affects your dexterity. Consider wearing insulated gloves that still allow you to grip the wheel, lines, and fishing gear.

3. Life Jackets on Top - Always
With bulky fall clothing, it’s critical that life jackets are worn over your layers and still fit properly. Many states even have cold-weather life jacket requirements for certain boat sizes and boaters of all ages, so be sure to know and follow the law. Need to borrow a life jacket? Visit one of our Life Jacket Loaner Stations.

4. Navigation Lights Required
With fewer daylight hours and earlier sunsets, darkness can fall quicker than you expect. Make sure your navigation lights are in working order, and carry a flashlight or headlamp as backup to stay visible and safe after dusk.

5. File a Float Plan
Let someone on land know your route, expected return time, and who’s on board. It’s an easy habit that becomes even more important in off-peak seasons when there are less people on the water.

For Boaters Ready to Winterize their Boats
If your fall plans include tucking your boat away for the season, a thorough end-of-season checklist will save you time and money come spring. Here's how to do it right:

1. Drain Water Lines and Safely Dispose of Fluids
Frozen water can wreak havoc on your engine and plumbing. Drain all onboard water systems and use marine-grade antifreeze to prevent damage. Dispose of fluids like fuel, oil, and coolant at proper collection centers. Never pour them in the waterway, down the drain or toss them in the trash. Don’t forget to inspect and reseal window seams and the boat plug, too.

Pro Tip: A trusted marine technician can do this for you if you are unsure of how to properly do it yourself. Just be sure to schedule your appointment early, spots fill up quickly as the season winds down.

2. Scrub Down
Use eco-friendly cleaners to scrub every inch of your boat, especially if it’ll be shrink-wrapped and stored. Mold and mildew can cause expensive damage and foul smells come spring.

3. Clean Life Jackets Before Storing
Before storing your life jackets for the season, clean and dry them thoroughly to prevent mildew. If you have outgrown life jackets from this past season, you can donate them to the Sea Tow Foundation’s Life Jacket Loaner Program.

4. Inspect All Safety Gear
Take stock of your safety equipment: radios, flares, extinguishers, first aid kits, and lines. Replace expired items and restock supplies now, while it’s top of mind. And don’t forget to remove valuables and electronics for safe storage during the off-season.

Bonus Tip: Sign Up for a Boating Safety Course
Fall and winter are the perfect time to brush up on your boating knowledge. Courses are offered both in person and online, and many insurance providers even offer discounts when you complete one. Understand that in many states, a boating safety certificate is now required.

No matter how you plan to spend the cooler months - soaking up those last golden days on the water or giving your boat a deep clean in preparation for spring - your efforts now will pay off later. A well-prepared boat and a well-informed crew are the keys to enjoying boating year after year.

Stay safe, have fun, and savor every moment of fall boating. We’ll see you on the water!

© 2025, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”). Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI’s trademarks. All rights reserved. 6-015-25

The Sea Tow Foundation™ is showcasing the winners of the 2024 National Boating Safety Awards via individualized blog posts that answer specific questions posted to each winning company.

Bullitage Media Inc. won the 2024 National Boating Safety Award in the category of Top Marine Media Outlet for their Water Ways TV.

Image provided courtesy of Water Ways TV

     1. Please briefly describe your winning entry and tell us about the process of creating/launching it.

Water Ways TV was born from past experiences co-hosting and producing Power-Boat Television from 2014-2019 and my work as a broadcast journalist with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). The new Water Ways TV show, which was launched in 2022 after the closure of PowerBoat TV productions, included safety messages from day one in recurring “60 seconds of safety” segments. Thus far, 31 full-length episodes have been created and we’re expanding rapidly in 2025!

     2. What inspired your company to promote boating safety?

The pilot episodes of Water Ways TV were achieved by calling in favors from friends and family for boat access or interviews, such as with Sgt. Dave Moffatt, the coordinator of the massive Ontario Provincial Police Marine Unit (170 vessels patrolling more than 200,000 lakes!). Audience testing found the boating public loved the messages and tips delivered in a fun and authentic way, not a lecture from authorities or a sales pitch from a manufacturer. We’ve leaned into the safety element and have since shot segments aboard an active Canadian Navy vessel (HMCS Harry DeWolf) and am in talks with the United States Coast Guard to highlight their efforts and the variety of marine-focused careers on the show.

     3. What does winning this award mean for your company?

Winning the National Safe Boating Award was like pouring fuel on the fire. We had begun finding organic and rapid growth as we pushed our online presence into the United States, and to be recognized after our first “full” season – including 13 embedded but entertaining safety segments – meant a lot as many of the big players took note. They are key partners for success in the media world. It gave us third party endorsement of our mission which is to be the most trusted source for recreational boaters and the first thought for fun on the water. Not to mention it meant a whole heck of a lot to our small but mighty team!

     4. What was a key takeaway you received because of working on this project or campaign?

It was surprising that people are interested in safety. Only, they are human and get bored or distracted and certainly don’t like being lectured to. But they want to keep their kids and spouses and friends alive while having fun. So have fun where appropriate, and always focus on the story first. If you keep people entertained, you keep their attention. And you need their attention to deliver a message.

© 2025, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”). Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI’s trademarks. All rights reserved. 5-018-25

As we head into the peak of summer boating season, the Sea Tow Foundation™ is here to help you stay safe, cool and keep the fun going all season long. Whether you’re planning a long day of cruising or enjoying watersports with friends, these 7 essential hot-weather boating safety tips will help you beat the heat—without losing sight of what matters most: getting home safely.

1. Hydrate Early and Often
High heat and humidity can quickly lead to dehydration, especially when you’re out on the water where sun exposure intensifies. Always pack plenty of water and electrolyte-rich drinks and remind everyone to sip regularly. Skip sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic beverages to help your body retain fluids.

Pro Tip: Assign a member of your crew to be your hydration point person—refilling bottles, checking coolers and keeping everyone to task throughout the day.

2. Don’t Let the Sun Steer the Day
Long days in the sun can bring serious risks, including sunburn, heat exhaustion and even heatstroke. Create shady areas using a bimini top, bring wide-brimmed hats and wear UV-protective clothing. Make sure to reapply sunscreen often—especially after swimming.

If you’re bringing your furry friends along, make sure they have enough water, non-slip footing on deck, and a shady spot to rest and stay cool.

3. Life Jackets Still Matter in the Heat
We know it’s hot, but ditching your life jacket because it’s “too warm” is a dangerous choice. Accidents happen fast, and high temps can lead to fatigue, dizziness or falls overboard. A properly fitted, lightweight life jacket can make all the difference, and thanks to the Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Program thousands of stations across the country have free life jackets available to borrow.

Click here to find a loaner station near you and get great information on how to properly fit a life jacket:

4. Pack for Emergencies—Not Just Snacks
In extreme heat, even a minor issue like a drained battery or overheated engine can turn into a major problem. Be sure to check your gear including batteries, electronics, flares and radios are in working order before you leave the dock. Always carry the following:

• A well-stocked, waterproof first-aid kit
• VHF radio and backup charging source
• Extra drinking water and food
• Emergency shade (tarp, towel, or canopy)
• Layers and blankets in case the weather turns

Make sure your Sea Tow^® membership is active before heading out because no one plans on for the unexpected to happen.

5. Designate a Sober Skipper—Every Time
Heat and alcohol are a risky mix. Combine that with the sun’s intensity and the effects of motion on the water, and even one drink can severely impair balance, judgment and reaction time. Our goal at the Sea Tow Foundation is to eliminate Boating Under the Influence (BUI) by encouraging all boaters to take the pledge to be or to designate a sober skipper before leaving the dock.

Don’t miss our “Sober Skipper: Why It Matters” video series featuring athletes, anglers and everyday boaters sharing why this message is personal. Watch it here.

6. Watch for Signs of Heat-Related Illness
Be alert for symptoms like dizziness, nausea, fainting or rapid breathing. If someone shows any of these signs, act quickly: move them to a shaded area, cool them with wet towels, and hydrate slowly. If symptoms are severe or worsen, call for medical assistance right away.

7. Model Smart Boating for the Whole Family
The best way to teach safe boating is to lead by example. Show your family how it’s done by:

• Wearing your life jacket
• Staying sober at the helm
• Following all navigation rules
• Making safety a prioritywith every trip

Creating a plan the whole family understands makes boating safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

Boating Can Be Safe and Fun
At the Sea Tow Foundation, we believe that a good day on the water means coming back safe, smiling, and ready to do it again. With a little planning, you can enjoy everything summer has to offer.

The Sea Tow Foundation™ is showcasing the winners of the 2024 National Boating Safety Awards via individualized blog posts that answer specific questions posted to each winning company.

Freedom Boat Club won the 2024 National Boating Safety Award in the category of Top Marine Business.

Photo provided courtesy of Freedom Boat Club.

     1. Please briefly describe your winning entry and tell us about the process of creating/launching it.

Freedom Boat Club's winning entry for the National Boating Safety Award involved a comprehensive, year-round approach to promoting boating safety through training, outreach, and community engagement. The project included the development of educational materials, safety protocols, and hands-on training for both new and experienced boaters. With more than 400 locations and 100,000+ members globally, we are proud of our ability to scale our access to training and resources. We continue to lead the Club with a safety-first culture. Our goal is to ensure each member feels comfortable and confident at the helm to maximize their time on the water.

     2. What does winning this award mean for your company?

Winning the National Boating Safety Award is a tremendous honor and a validation of our dedication to boating safety. It reinforces our commitment to ensuring that our members are equipped with the knowledge and tools to boat responsibly. While we’ve always prided ourselves on our focus on safety, receiving this recognition serves as a reminder that our efforts are making a positive impact on the boating community.

     3. What partnerships, media coverage and/or opportunities have you received because of winning this award?

Winning this prestigious award has provided several opportunities for collaboration and exposure. We’ve strengthened our partnerships with safety organizations, local boating communities, and other industry leaders. Media coverage has allowed us to expand our message of boating safety to a wider audience, and the recognition has prompted more boaters to seek out Freedom Boat Club as a trusted resource for safe and enjoyable boating experiences. Our commitment to safety has long involved working with others since this is not our first boating safety initiative; we have consistently promoted safety through programs like our three core boater safety courses, which are all National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) verified courses plus our on-going partnership with the Sea Tow Foundation to promote the Sober Skipper™ program. Our work with other partners is part of an ongoing effort to make boating as safe as it is enjoyable.

     4. What was a key takeaway you received because of working on this project or campaign?

A key takeaway from working on this initiative has been the reinforcement across our Club that boating safety requires a continual, collective effort. While training and education are fundamental, safety on the water is also about creating a culture where every boater feels empowered to make responsible decisions.

© 2025, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”). Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI’s trademarks. All rights reserved. 5-018-25

The Sea Tow Foundation™ is showcasing the winners of the 2024 National Boating Safety Awards via individualized blog posts that answer specific questions posted to each winning company.

Garmin won the 2024 National Boating Safety Award in the category of Top Marine Gear & Equipment Manufacturer.

Photo used with permission from Garmin.

     1. Please briefly describe your winning entry and tell us about the process of creating/launching it.

Garmin received a 2024 National Boating Safety Award from the Sea Tow Foundation for its work done to help educate customers and the public about the importance of having the right tools, equipment and knowledge to stay safe on the water. We strive to prioritize safe boating content year-round and typically begin mapping out what the content will be and when it will go out at the start of each year.

     2. What inspired your company to promote boating safety?

At Garmin, our mission is to create products that are an essential part of our customers’ lives, and we know many of our customers spend time on the water boating and fishing. Having innovative, quality and easy-to-use electronics can make the difference between a good and bad day on the water – and we take great pride in creating products that can help our customers safely make the most of their time on the water. 

     3. What was a key takeaway you received because of working on this project or campaign?

Based on our annual inReach SOS data*, we know that boating continues to be one of the top five activities people are doing when they trigger an inReach SOS. This reaffirms why it’s so important to get out the message of safe boating – hopefully seeing our safety-related content will help customers think twice about making sure they’re prepared before they leave the dock.

*This was true for 2023, but 2024 data has not yet been made available publicly.

     4. What does winning this award mean for your company? If your company has won more than once, does that change anything?

We are honored to receive a National Boating Safety Award for the fourth year in a row. This award is a testament to Garmin’s commitment to creating products that can support safe and responsible boating practices for our customers. We look forward to continuing to provide products and resources to foster a stronger, smarter community of boaters, anglers and sailors alike, and we thank the Sea Tow Foundation for this recognition.

© 2025, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”). Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI’s trademarks. All rights reserved. 5-018-25