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Home
> About the Float Plan
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About the Float
Plan
The USCG Float Plan is a state-of-the-art
lifesaving device that is used by search and
rescue personnel to assist in reducing the
search area in order to locate you in the
shortest amount of time possible. It is also the
first and only float plan that guides and
directs the holder of your float plan on what to
do via the exclusive Boating Emergency Guide.
Why prepare a Float Plan?
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Alan Hanson of Tacoma had to scramble to
minimize the danger and damage after two
masts on his sailboat 'Patience' broke
in high winds and icy rain. (Dean J.
Koepfler/staff photographer; Stacia
Glenn, staff writer, story "Storm dismantles
his beloved Patience: My error"
published Jan. 20, 2012; The (Tecoma) News
Tribune, WA)
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The answer is simple... there are just too many
facts that need to be accurately remembered and
ultimately conveyed in an emergency situation.
Without a float plan you are counting on someone
else, a friend, neighbor, or family member to
remember detailed information that rescue
personnel need in order to find you. Information
that can make a difference in the outcome.
Who should prepare a float plan?
Don't think for a minute that this is a device
only for those with big expensive boats. The
USCG Float Plan is equally effective for the
owner of a 10 foot kayak or flat-bottom skiff as
it is for a 48-foot express cruiser, or a 90
foot sport-fishing vessel or luxury yacht. So,
what kind of boaters prepare float plans?
Typically, the Skipper of the vessel is the
individual who prepares the Float Plan. However,
any member of the crew can be assigned the
preparation and filing duty. If you are a crew
member, coordinate the preparation and filing of
the Float Plan with your Skipper.
Keeping up-to-date
Float Plan Central periodically updates the USCG
Float Plan to reflect the latest improvements in
both boating safety and search and rescue
practices and technology. Consequently,
every time you download a copy of the USCG Float
Plan, you are assured of getting the most
up-to-date lifesaving device available.
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