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by Capt. Ron
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Checklist
Pre-Launch Checklist
Run it every launch — no exceptions. 0/10 checked.
Pull today’s WXRR for your zone — rain, lightning, wind, tides
Live radar check within 30 minutes of launch
PFD on EVERY rider + engine cut-off lanyard attached to you
Float plan filed with someone on shore (see Float Plan tab)
Fuel rule: 1/3 out, 1/3 back, 1/3 in reserve
Water: at least 1 liter per rider per 2 hours + sun cover
Phone charged, in a waterproof pouch, on your body (not the ski)
Check the tide window for your route — negative lows expose the bars
Know your bail-out shorelines before you need them
Summer doctrine: on the water by 8, off by 3
NWS Marine Forecasts — find your Florida office
NOAA Tides & Currents
NWS Live Radar — Florida