Before sailing away you should make sure there are no issues with your boat, with the weather or tide, like this most boating accident’s could be prevented. If you are fairly new to the sailing world I would highly suggest making a checklist and keep a copy of it on the boat. Here you can find a list of things you should do before heading out.
Check the forecast, the wind and wave conditions in your local area. Make sure to make a “Float Plan”. A float plan is basically telling someone when, where you have decided to go out boating, when you will be back, when and where to call for help if not back at destination by a certain time. This is an important step, most sailors do not think about this because it doesn’t occur to them that anything will happen to them, this could save thousands of lives.
A float plan is as straightforward as telling a friend “ I will be going sailing at the Chichester Harbor this morning, I will be back in the afternoon or I’ll call you before the evening, call the club for succor if you don’t hear from me by then” , your friend will probably know the general area you are going to, your boat and who to call in case of emergency.
A more elaborate float plan would include: The boat color, size, type, and name. The route, where and at what time the boat is leaving, any planed stops along the journey, and when and where it is expected to arrive. The number of people onboard, contact details and medical conditions.
Coast Guards recommend giving additional information about the equipment of the boat. Al sailboats have specific equipment required by federal law. Make sure you know your country’s or state’s laws and keep in mind that the requirements may vary depending on the boat's size.