What should you do before a boating trip to ensure safety?

Checking the weather forecast before a boating trip is a crucial safety measure because it informs you about potential weather hazards, such as storms, high winds, or rough seas. Understanding the forecast allows you to plan accordingly, either by adjusting your travel plans or ensuring you're equipped to handle changing conditions. Safe boating practices dictate that awareness of weather patterns plays a significant role in preventing accidents and ensuring the well-being of everyone on board.

The other choices, while they may contribute to a pleasant trip, do not directly address safety in the same way. Packing extra food is important for comfort and sustenance but does not enhance safety. Inviting more passengers could lead to overcrowding, which can compromise safety and stability on the water. Being familiar with the boat design is also important for overall safety; however, without assessing the weather, the risk of navigating in unsafe conditions increases significantly. Thus, checking the weather remains the most directly impactful action for ensuring safety.