The Ultimate Tennessee Boating Safety Checklist: 5 Things to Check Before Leaving the Dock


Whether you’re spending the day on Norris, Douglas, Tellico, or Fort Loudoun, these five simple checks can help keep your family safe on the water.

1. Have You Checked the Weather?

Why should I check the weather before going boating?
Weather on East Tennessee lakes can change quickly. A calm morning on Norris, Douglas, Tellico, or Fort Loudoun can turn into strong winds and thunderstorms by the afternoon. Checking the forecast before you leave can help you avoid dangerous conditions.
What weather conditions are unsafe for boating?
Pay attention to thunderstorms, high winds, lightning, heavy rain, and reduced visibility. If storms are expected during your trip, consider delaying your launch or planning to return to the marina early.
Where can I find reliable boating weather forecasts?
The National Weather Service, local weather apps, and marine forecasts provide updated conditions throughout the day. Check the forecast before leaving and monitor changing conditions while you’re on the water

2. Does Everyone Have a Properly Fitted Life Jacket?

Do adults need to wear life jackets in Tennessee?
While Tennessee law requires a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket for every person on board, wearing one is always the safest choice, especially when children or inexperienced swimmers are onboard.
How should a life jacket fit?
A life jacket should fit snugly without restricting movement. Children’s life jackets should be properly sized for their weight and securely fastened before leaving the dock.
Where should life jackets be stored?
Life jackets should be easy to reach, not buried under gear or locked inside storage compartments. In an emergency, every second matters.

3. Who Is Your Designated Boat Operator?

Can you operate a boat after drinking alcohol?
No. Boating Under the Influence (BUI) is illegal in Tennessee and carries penalties similar to driving under the influence. Alcohol also affects balance, judgment, and reaction time, making boating even more dangerous.
Why should every boat have a designated operator?
Choosing one responsible operator before leaving the dock helps everyone stay focused on enjoying the day safely. A designated operator should remain sober for the duration of the trip.
What should the designated operator be responsible for?
The operator should know the planned route, understand local boating laws, monitor weather conditions, and keep passengers safe throughout the trip.

4. Does Someone Know Where You’re Going?

Why is it important to tell someone your plans?
If your boat experiences mechanical problems or doesn’t return as expected, having someone who knows your route and expected return time can help emergency responders begin searching more quickly.
What information should I share before leaving?
Tell someone which lake you’ll be on, where you plan to launch, who is with you, and approximately when you expect to return.
Should I carry emergency contact information?
Yes. Keep emergency contacts stored in your phone and consider carrying a written copy in a waterproof container.

5. Do You Have the Essentials Onboard?

What safety equipment should every boat carry?
Every boat should have a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, throwable flotation device if required, sound-producing device, flashlight, and all required safety equipment under Tennessee law.
What personal items are easy to forget?
Bring plenty of drinking water, sunscreen, a fully charged phone, medications, snacks, and a portable phone charger. These simple items can make a big difference during a long day on the lake.
Are my boat registration and permits up to date?
Before every trip, make sure your registration is current and any required documentation is onboard. Taking a few minutes to check your paperwork can help prevent unnecessary delays if you’re stopped by TWRA.

Tennessee Lake Safety Resources

For additional boating safety information, Tennessee boating laws, and weather updates, visit these official resources:

Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) Boating Safety
Official Tennessee boating laws, regulations, registration information, and safety guidance.

TWRA Watercraft Equipment Checklist

A complete checklist of the safety equipment required on your vessel before heading out on the water.

TWRA Boating Education Program
Learn who needs a Tennessee Boater Education Certificate, how to prepare for the exam, and where to take it.

National Weather Service Forecasts

Check the latest weather conditions, thunderstorms, wind forecasts, and severe weather alerts before launching your boat.

TWRA Boating Regulations & Safety Concerns
Find information on life jacket requirements, required safety equipment, boating laws, and other regulations for Tennessee waterways.

If the Unexpected Happens
Even experienced boaters can find themselves dealing with another operator’s negligence.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a boating accident on a Tennessee lake, our team is here to answer your questions.

Have a Question?
Whether you’re looking for information about boating safety or have questions after an accident, we’re here to help. Simply contact us by phone, email, form, or chat. 865-351-3135