No matter how much experience you have, it’s always a good idea for everyone to review boating safety rules before departing on a boating adventure.

Following are 10 basic safety tips:

• Be weather-wise – Always check local weather conditions before departure. Television and radio forecasts can be a good source of information. If you notice darkening clouds, volatile and rough changing winds or sudden drops in temperature, play it safe by getting off the water.

• Always follow a pre-departure checklist – Proper boating safety means being prepared for any possibility. From compliance with fire safety regulations to tips for fueling up, always following the same pre-departure checklist is the best way to make sure no boating safety rules or precautions have been forgotten.

• Use common sense – One of the most important parts of boating safety is to use your common sense. This means operating at a safe speed at all times, especially in crowded areas. Be alert at all times, and steer clear of large vessels and watercraft. Also be respectful of buoys and other navigational aids, all of which have been placed there to ensure your own boating safety.

• Designate an assistant skipper – Make sure more than one person on board is familiar with all aspects of your boat’s handling, operations and other boating safety tips. If the primary navigator is injured or incapacitated in any way, it’s important to make sure someone else can follow the proper boating safety rules to get everyone else back to shore.

• Develop a float plan – Whether you choose to inform a family member, or the staff at your local marina, always be sure to let someone else know your float plan in terms of where you’re going and how long you expect to be gone.

A float plan can include the following information: name, address and phone number of trip leader; the name and number of all passengers; boat type and registration information; trip itinerary; types of communication; and signal equipment onboard.

• Make proper use of lifejackets – Make sure that every family member and friend are assigned and fitted with a lifejacket prior to departure.

• Avoid alcohol – Practice boating safety at all times by saving the alcohol for later. The probability of being involved in a boating accident doubles when alcohol is involved. Studies have also shown that external effects such as sun and wind exacerbate the affect of alcohol.

• Learn to swim – Proper boating safety means knowing how to swim. Local organizations such as the American Red Cross and others offer training for all ages and abilities. Check to see what classes are offered in your area.

• Take a boating course – Beginning boaters and experienced experts alike need to be familiar with boating safety rules and the operation of individual boats. Boater education requirements vary by state- some require validated completion of at least one boating safety course.

Regardless of your individual state’s requirements, it’s always important to be educated, aware and prepared for every circumstance that might arise. You can learn boating safety rules by taking a local community course, or an online tutorial.

• Get a free vessel safety check – Take advantage of a free vessel safety Check from the U.S. Coast Guard. The Coast Guard offers complimentary boat examinations to verify the presence and good condition of safety equipment required by state and the federal regulations.