Boat Safe And Live

09/04/2026

🛶 A GROUP IS NOT A SAFETY PLAN.

Paddling with a group can be a great experience—but don’t assume that being surrounded by other kayakers means someone is responsible for your safety.

Over the last two weekends, I paddled with two different groups of about 25–30 people. Both had great people and both had safe outcomes, but their approaches to safety were very different.

One had a planned route, participant count, designated leader and caboose, and required everyone to wear a life jacket. 🦺 The other was much less structured, and life jackets were optional.

It was a good reminder: when you paddle with people you don’t know, ask questions before you launch.

And always be prepared to answer three questions for yourself:

🦺 Can you stay afloat if you capsize? Wear your life jacket.

🛶 Can you solve your own problems? Carry safety equipment and tools you may need.

📱 Can you call for help? Carry 2 reliable communication devices and leave a float plan with someone on shore.

A group can add a layer of safety. It shouldn't replace your own.

Comments by Michelle Brannon, pictured below, Co-Founder of Boat Safe And Live

09/03/2026

Paddling information from the experts!

https://tpwd.texas.gov/newsmedia/releases/?req=20260903c

09/03/2026

🎣 Boat Safe And Live is proud to support the Greater Caddo Lake Association of Texas by donating a Family Boating Safety Bag valued at more than $200 to its silent auction!

Join us Saturday, September 5, at The Point on Goose Prairie in Uncertain. Fish plates are $20, serving begins at 11 a.m., and the raffle and silent auction begin at 1 p.m. Open to the public!

Event details: https://www.facebook.com/events/1599774455082421

08/25/2026

🌊 Boat Safe And Live is in Boise, Idaho! 🚤

The Boat Safe And Live crew is attending the 2026 States Organization for Boating Access (SOBA) Education & Training Symposium this week.

We’re learning from the experts in boating access—the people who plan, build, maintain, and operate the infrastructure that makes recreation on our waterways possible: boat ramps, docks, piers, marinas, access areas, life jacket loaner stations, and more.

For Boat Safe And Live, this is an important part of water safety. Safe boating isn't only about what happens on the boat. The environment matters, too.

We’re here to learn, build relationships, share Will’s story, and promote the importance of designing and maintaining safe boating environments.

Because even when boaters act responsibly, unsafe environments can cause tragedies. Safe behavior + safe environments work together to save lives. 💙🧡

08/15/2026

⌚ Stay Connected. Stay Safe. 🚤

Some smart watches can call 911 when your phone isn’t with you—even without an active data plan. 📞🆘
On the water, a secondary way to call for help could save a life.

🦺 Wear it.
🔑 Use the engine cutoff.
⌚ Stay connected.
💙 Boat Safe and Live.

08/07/2026

🛶🌊 Grab your paddle and get !

Before you launch, remember to wear a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket, and for standup paddleboarders, use a leash appropriate for your venue.

🛶 Other paddling tips:

🌦️ · Check the weather: Avoid paddling in storms, high winds, or rough water. Weather changes fast. Check (and continue to check) local forecasts.

📍 · Plan your trip and share it. Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return.

💪 ·Know your limits! Paddle within your skill level. Take a class if you’re new.

🔎 · Check your equipment. Inspect your paddle, vessel, and safety gear before heading out. Bring a rescue whistle - it’s required in many locations.

👀 · Stay visible. Wear bright clothing. Use reflective tape and lights; especially at dawn, dusk, or in fog.

🚫🍺 · Avoid alcohol and drugs. Impairment greatly increases your risk of drowning or collision.

⚓ · Follow the Navigation Rules - you're a boater too!

🌊 Plan ahead, know your limits, and make every paddle a safe and fun adventure!

paddlesport ACA Paddlesports | Choose Life Jackets | National Association of State Boating Law Administrators | National Safe Boating Council | U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) | The Weather Channel

08/01/2026

Ready to put your boating knowledge to the test? 🚤🛟


Think you know your buoys? 🤔 See how many buoys you can get correct!


Drop your score in the comments ⬇️ and challenge your boating buddies to see who knows the water best.


Every buoy has a purpose—and knowing what they mean helps keep everyone safe on the water. 🌊

07/27/2026

07/24/2026

Planning to rent a paddle craft or personal watercraft this summer?

Go to our page to learn more

07/24/2026

Planning to rent a paddle craft or personal watercraft this summer?

Here are a few things to know before you hit the water:

Texas has a law that applies to ANYONE who rents out a vessel—not just commercial rental businesses. Whether you're renting from a marina, an outfitter, or a private individual, these safety requirements are designed to help keep everyone safe on the water.

If you're renting a vessel, the person or business renting it to you must:
1. Carry liability insurance (don't hesitate to ask for proof).
2. Have a registration card in the vessel
3. Provide basic instruction on vessel operation and safety, boating laws, and local regulations.
4. Have each operator sign an acknowledgment that they received the required safety instruction.
5. Provide all required safety equipment for the vessel, including:
• 🦺 A U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for every person aboard
• 🔊 A whistle or sound-producing device
• 🛟 A life ring or throwable (when required)
• 💡 Navigation lights (when required)
• 🧯 A fire extinguisher (when required)
• 🔗 An engine cut-off switch and lanyard (when required)

Also, don't assume you can just hop on and go.

If you were born on or after September 1, 1993, you may be required to have a Texas Boater Education Certificate to operate a personal watercraft, jet ski, or motorboat. Ask your rental provider before you arrive so your day on the water starts safely and legally.

Learn more - Water Safety Act Booklet:https://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/pwdpubs/media/pwd_bk_l2000_0014.pdf

• Texas Parks and Wildlife Code §31.111 – Operating Vessel Livery
• Texas Parks and Wildlife Code §31.040 – Vessel Liveries
• Texas Parks and Wildlife Code § 31.109 – Boater Education Course Required for Certain Persons.

A few minutes of preparation can make the difference between a great day on the water and a preventable tragedy.