PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) – The 2026 National Safe Boating Week is May 16th through the 22nd.
With more boaters hitting the water, the National Weather Service in Tallahassee is reminding boaters that the weather can change fast.
Meteorologists Andy Haner and Lance Frank with the National Weather Service hosted a workshop in Panama City with safety tips boaters can use before they leave the dock.
“The goal was to get good information into people’s hands,” said Andy Haner, meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Tallahassee, “related to staying safe with the weather, with navigation, and to give them some tools to stay safe.”
Both Haner and Frank emphasize the importance of knowing the weather conditions before going out on the water and planning for them.
“Have a trusted source of information where you can get the weather forecast before you head out on the water,” said Frank, “to aid you in that go or no-go decision.”
Meteorologists also recommend keeping an eye on the weather while on the water.
“For one, any conditions that are differing from the forecast prior to going out on the water, and also paying attention to the trends in terms of the winds and seas,” said Frank, “as well as the sky conditions as well, especially if you see any threatening weather that’s moving towards your position.”
Meteorologists said boaters should have backup plans.
“Have several alternative plans,” Haner said, “If it’s truly just glassy everywhere, maybe you’re able to go miles offshore, but if the gulf is rough, go where you can stay safe and still have a good time in the Bay. And even if the Bay is rough, you know, there are some little coves in the Bay that you can go to.”
Meteorologists also emphasize the importance of wearing a life jacket while out on the water.
If boaters find themselves in a life-threatening situation, the Coast Guard said to make a mayday call to VHF-FM Channel 16.
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