Boating safety is critical whenever you push off the dock, but with all the recent issues regarding COVID-19, many people are wondering if you can go boating and still maintain safe social distance.

If you apply the social distancing rules to boating, here is what you get:

• Limit the people aboard to those family members you share your home with. No guests.
• Don’t raft up with other boats. Don’t pull up onto a beach or dock close to another boat.
• Be careful to maintain a safe distance from others in the parking lot and when launching or loading.
• After doing anything that requires touching an item someone else may have touched, wash your hands or use a hand sanitizer as soon as possible.
• Limit the stops you make; pack your gear and supplies at home.

Boat ramps are open at Ohio State Parks, but restrooms and marina buildings are not. So be prepared with  gasoline and other supplies.

Be prepared for all safety and equipment matters, too. There may not be another boater around to lend a hand when you are on the water. Filing a float plan is essential to ensuring that someone knows where you are boating and when you expect to be home.