Boating is a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the summer, but it also comes
with some risks. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, there were 4,168 boating
accidents in 2019, resulting in 613 deaths and 2,559 injuries. Many of these
accidents could have been prevented by following some simple boating safety
tips. Here are some of the most important ones to keep in mind before you hit
the water.
1. Wear a life jacket. This is the most basic and essential rule of boating
safety. A life jacket can save your life if you fall overboard or if your boat
capsizes. Make sure you have a properly fitting life jacket for every person
on board, and wear it at all times. Don't rely on inflatable toys or cushions
as flotation devices. They are not designed to keep you afloat in an emergency.
2. Check the weather. Before you go boating, check the weather forecast and
marine conditions for your area. Avoid boating in stormy or windy weather, as
it can make the water choppy and dangerous. If you are already on the water
and notice dark clouds, lightning, or strong winds, head back to shore as soon
as possible.
3. Follow the rules of the water. Just like driving on the road, boating
on the water has its own rules and regulations. Learn and follow the local boating
laws and etiquette for your area. For example, you should always keep to the
right when approaching another boat head-on, and yield to the boat on your right
when crossing paths. You should also respect the speed limits and no-wake zones,
and avoid boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
4. Be prepared for emergencies. Even if you follow all the safety tips, accidents
can still happen. That's why you should always be prepared for emergencies on
the water. Make sure you have a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, a whistle
or horn, a flashlight, and a VHF radio on board. You should also have a float
plan, which is a document that tells someone where you are going, how long you
will be gone, and who to contact if you don't return on time. Leave your float
plan with a friend or family member who is not on the boat.
5. Have fun and enjoy the summer! Boating is a great way to experience nature
and have fun with your friends and family. By following these safety tips, you
can ensure that your boating adventure is safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on the evening of February 17, 2026. The first day of fasting will likely fall on February 18. The month will end around March 19, 2026, depending on local moon sightings. These dates may be changed, depending on the country.
A red robin watches a Ramadan family prayer with warmth and wonder.
Ride into the rare Year of the Fire Horse with legends, dragon dances, lucky foods, and a fiery red robin salute to Lunar New Year. The Year of the Fire Horse is one of the most dramatic and culturally charged cycles in the Chinese zodiac. It appears only once every 60 years, and when it does, it ignites stories of passion, rebellion, creativity, and change.
From ancient legends to modern festivals filled with dragon dances and lanterns, the Fire Horse gallops through history
as a symbol of both risk and possibility.
Quick Fire Horse Snapshot:
Rare 60-year cycle • Fiery passion • Bold change • Artistic energy • A time to move, create, and transform.
Fire Horse-inspired lantern art at a Lunar New Year celebration.
As mid-February settles in, Presidents' Day arrives as a welcome pause in the winter season, a moment when
communities across the United States step outdoors for parades, visit historic sites, and reflect on the
leaders who shaped the nation. The holiday blends civic pride with the comfort of a long weekend, creating
a unique mix of celebration, education, and family time.
In 2026, the holiday on February 16th carries added significance as the nation enters its 250th anniversary year,
inspiring expanded programming, special exhibitions, and renewed interest in the country’s founding era.
From record spending to instant downloadable gifts for couples, pets, and families. For late shoppers, these ideas make a great solution for finding meaningful gifts.
Valentine’s Day 2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest yet. Recent retail surveys show
that total Valentine’s spending is expected to reach record levels, with average budgets per
person climbing close to the $200 mark. Consumers aren’t just buying for romantic
partners anymore; they’re also celebrating kids, pets, friends, and themselves.
At the same time, how people express love is changing. Instead of defaulting to last‑minute
flowers and generic chocolates, many are looking for gifts that feel personal, meaningful,
and easy to deliver, especially when they’ve left things a little late. That’s where
downloadable, print‑at‑home, and digital gifts step into the spotlight.
Work trailers take a beating on the road, at job sites, and in everyday weather. Fleet managers and owner-operators need a plan that keeps their equipment reliable, safe, and ready for the next run. Fleet maintenance tips for work trailers start with building consistent habits and avoiding expensive surprises.
