PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG\/WECP) – The 2026 National Safe Boating Week is May 16th through the 22nd.<\/p>\n
With more boaters hitting the water, the National Weather Service in Tallahassee is reminding boaters that the weather can change fast.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe goal was to get good information into people\u2019s hands,\u201d said Andy Haner, meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Tallahassee, \u201crelated to staying safe with the weather, with navigation, and to give them some tools to stay safe.\u201d<\/p>\n
Both Haner and Frank emphasize the importance of knowing the weather conditions before going out on the water and planning for them.<\/p>\n
\u201cHave a trusted source of information where you can get the weather forecast before you head out on the water,\u201d said Frank, \u201cto aid you in that go or no-go decision.\u201d<\/p>\n
Meteorologists also recommend keeping an eye on the weather while on the water.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor 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,\u201d said Frank, \u201cas well as the sky conditions as well, especially if you see any threatening weather that\u2019s moving towards your position.\u201d<\/p>\n
Meteorologists said boaters should have backup plans.<\/p>\n
\u201cHave several alternative plans,\u201d Haner said, \u201cIf it\u2019s truly just glassy everywhere, maybe you\u2019re 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.\u201d<\/p>\n
Meteorologists also emphasize the importance of wearing a life jacket while out on the water. <\/p>\n
If boaters find themselves in a life-threatening situation, the Coast Guard said to make a mayday call to VHF-FM Channel 16.<\/p>\n
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