A float plan is defined as what?

• A. Trip plan left with responsible person
• B. A weather forecast
• C. A list of gear
• D. A rescue contact list

Answer: (A)

A float plan is a safety document you leave with a trusted person before you head out. It lays out the trip details you’re undertaking: where you’re going, who is aboard, the vessel description, the planned route, departure and expected return times, and how you’ll check in or be reached. If you’re overdue, the person holding the plan can alert authorities and begin a search using the information you provided. It’s a proactive way to communicate your itinerary and safety plan so responders know where to look and what to expect.

This isn’t the same as a weather forecast, which is a weather briefing you use to decide when to go or what gear to bring. It isn’t just a gear list, which is about packing items. And while a rescue contact list can be part of the information you share, the float plan is broader: it includes route, timing, and vessel and trip details that guide safe rescue if needed.