A float plan should be prepared for any trip on the water. Whether digital, handwritten or even verbal, taking the time to create this important document is critical. Include key details about your trip, vessel and the people going with you. Then, share or “file” your float plan with a responsible person before you leave.
WHY CREATE A FLOAT PLAN?
The purpose of a float plan is safety, should an emergency, dangerous weather conditions or other unplanned situation occur during your trip. Include your destination(s), purpose of the trip, who is on the water and expected timeframe. That way, if you do not return on time, the float plan provides key information for your loved ones or authorities, should a search or rescue be required.
Cell phone reception can be poor or unavailable along parts of the New York Susquehanna Basin Water Trail, making it harder to reach 9-1-1. Every second counts in an emergency, so a float plan is strongly recommended no matter how long your trip or how experienced you are on the water.
WHAT TO INCLUDE IN A FLOAT PLAN
Key elements of a good float plan include:
- Itinerary: Your starting and ending location, expected route and any stops along the way.
- Timeframe: The day and time of your departure and expected return. If you are delayed and it is not an emergency, inform the person(s) who have your float plan. And be sure to notify them when you do return.
- Contact information: The names, ages and phone numbers of everyone on the trip. You may also wish to include any important health concerns or medication information.
- Vessel description: Color, size, make and any other details that describe each of the vessels on the trip. In New York State, boats manufactured after 1972 also require a Hull Identification Number (HIN), which should be included.
- Vehicle: The car(s) at your start and end locations, with plate number, color, make and model as well as where you expect to park.
- Equipment: List of the emergency safety gear you have on board (flares, VHF radio, GPS, etc.).
- Trip Purpose: Knowing your goal is fishing, birding, visiting a specific landmark or river feature can be helpful in locating you.
- Emergency contacts: Include the names and phone numbers of family, friends and anyone who may have a deeper knowledge of your vessel and on-water habits.
WHO SHOULD KEEP YOUR FLOAT PLAN?
You can “file” or share your float plan with any responsible party you trust. For some trips, it may be a family member, friend or neighbor. In other cases, it may make sense to leave it with an outfitter, marina owner or harbor master.
Note: You DO NOT need to file your float plan with law enforcement or the Coast Guard. The plan will be shared with authorities in case of emergency.
OTHER SAFETY TIPS
- LABEL YOUR VESSEL: Use a permanent marker to write your name and contact number in a highly visible location on your vessel. This can be helpful when trying to locate a missing boat, whether you are on or off the water.
- KEEP IDENTIFICATION ON YOUR BODY: Paddlers should always carry waterproof ID with emergency contact information on their person. Keep it in a sealed Ziplock plastic bag, waterproof container, or in a zippered pocket of your clothing.
