When should you contact the person who has your float plan?

Contacting the person who has your float plan is crucial for safety and communication regarding your boating trip. This person acts as a safety resource, having a record of your itinerary, the expected return time, and the area you plan to navigate. Therefore, it’s essential to update them when you return safely or if your plans change, such as extending your time on the water.

By reaching out upon your return, you confirm your safety and that your planned activities were completed as intended. It allows the designated person to know that you are not missing or in need of assistance, which they would certainly be alerted to if you failed to check in as planned.

While informing them before leaving the dock or upon reaching your destination can provide initial safety, these actions do not give closure on your trip or account for any changes that might occur during your outing. Additionally, after fueling, contacting them does not align with the purpose of ensuring safety after the completion of your activities.