How to Avoid a Labor Day Boating Accident

Labor Day boating is all about soaking up those last rays of summer with coolers packed, music playing, and the open water calling your name. While the vibes are high, so are the risks. As with any holiday on the water, the potential for accidents can spike. 

The good news is that a bit of prep goes a long way in keeping the fun afloat. Here's how to avoid a boating accident over the Labor Day weekend and make it back to the dock with nothing but good memories.

Labor Day: The Last Big Weekend on the Water

Traditionally, Labor Day weekend marks the end of the summer boating season. That makes it a prime time for a Labor Day boat party or final adventure for the season. Many boaters head out for a last summer ride or get-together, which can increase the risk on the waterways.

Even if the water doesn't seem too crowded in your area, though, that doesn't necessarily mean safer conditions. Newer vessel owners or individuals renting boats for Labor Day weekend may be unprepared and overconfident, which can lead to accidents.

It's important to stay diligent anytime you're out on your boat, but especially during holidays.

Don't Let a Labor Day Boating Celebration Override Safety

Alcohol and boating don't mix well. Rather than take risks and potentially run afoul of the law, designate a sober captain. That's essential during festive outings where drinks might be flowing and judgment could be impaired.

Knowing you have a sober person in charge can provide peace of mind.

Also, be cautious of passengers moving around on the boat or even diving into the water. Getting too close to people in the water can lead to a serious accident, such as a propeller strike, especially if passengers have been drinking and decide to swim, or accidentally fall overboard while the boat is running.

Keep an eye out for distractions and fatigue, which can occur at any time of day or night, but are most common in the afternoon when the combination of heat and sun exposure takes its toll. 

Prepare Your Boat Like It's the First Trip (Not the Last) of the Season

Before you head out for a Labor Day boat ride, perform a safety check. You'll want to look at the battery charge, fuel levels, navigation lights, communication devices, and fire extinguisher. 

Additionally, ensure that life jackets are onboard and accessible. There should be one for every person on your vessel. If you're planning to stay out late and will be traveling at night, also double-check your navigation tools and file a float plan with a trusted person on shore.

Watch the Weather

Labor Day boating can come with some weather challenges, as late summer frequently brings sudden storms or high winds. These changes can come quickly and be magnified on the open water, which can put your vessel and its passengers at risk.

Before heading out, check the forecast for your area and use a marine weather app to monitor conditions while boating. This way, you can head to shore or a safe location if the weather turns bad.

Know the Waterway Traffic Patterns

Even with fewer boats on the water at the end of the season, there are still risks to waterway traffic.

Labor Day brings together a mix of experienced boaters and casual holiday riders, some of whom may not be familiar with the area or the craft they're operating. It's essential to stay alert in high-traffic areas, such as sandbars, marinas, and popular anchor spots.

There may be gatherings in various locations, and you don't want to come upon anchored boats unexpectedly at high speed. Use extra caution around personal watercraft and rented vessels, too, as they may not be familiar with or adhere to all standard navigation rules. 

Follow Navigational Rules Like It's Peak Season

To make your Labor Day boat ride as safe as possible, maintain proper lookout and obey no-wake zones. Also, be mindful of anchored party boats, swimmers, and kayakers near shorelines to reduce the risk of an accident.

You should slow down near crowded coves and other popular areas, as a Labor Day boat party may draw a large flotilla of vessels.

Plan for a Safe Return From Your Labor Day Boat Ride

Unless you have functioning lights on your boat and experience traveling the waterways at night, it's best to avoid returning to the dock at sunset or in the dark. Docking at night can be difficult and stressful, making it a common time for accidents. Plan to come back to the dock while there is still plenty of light outside.

High fatigue and low visibility are a bad combination that can create increased risk. 

Wrap Up the Boating Season with Winterization

When Labor Day weekend is over, many boaters start winterizing their boats and preparing them for storage. Before storing your vessel, conduct a final inspection to identify any wear and tear that requires attention.

Then, celebrate the close of summer and think back on a great boating season, while you look forward to the next one.

Boat Safely for Labor Day Weekend with Boater Education

While it may be the end of the boating season, it's never too late to make sure you've taken a boater education course.

If it's your first time out on the water at the helm of a boat (even for the last big boating weekend of the season), you must have a boater education card if your state requires it. Transport Canada requires boater education for all boat operations in Canada.

Boat-Ed is here to help! It's fast and fun to take our online course and get your boater card. You can print a temporary card that gets you out on the water this weekend while your permanent card arrives in a few weeks.

What you'll learn will help you stay safe on the water, learn important navigation rules, and have more confidence at the helm, for Labor Day and throughout the year.

Don't risk being without the safety education you need!
In Canada, take our Transport Canada-approved course.
For boating in the U.S., choose the course for your state, then hit the water safely and legally.