Know Your Surroundings

Each time you go out on the water, you should pay close attention to landmarks and structures on the shore line. You never know when circumstances will cause you to be on the water after dark. All cell phone towers and water tanks have lights at the highest point. These lights are there to keep airplanes from hitting them. These lights also can be a beacon leading you back to your home port. Those of you that are familiar with nautical charts know that these landmarks are marked on the chart. However,if you boat on a smaller body of water and do not use charts, don't always depend on your GPS. They are man made and can fail. Knowing which light to follow will help you find your way. Finally, if you're not familiar with a body of water, get off the water before dark. It's a lot safer.