What weather condition should be monitored to ensure safe boating?

Monitoring wind and water conditions is crucial for ensuring safe boating. Wind can significantly affect the stability and maneuverability of a vessel, leading to difficulties in handling, particularly for smaller boats. High winds can create large waves and choppy waters, making it hazardous to navigate. Additionally, understanding water conditions, such as currents and tides, is vital as they can impact the boat’s speed and direction, potentially putting the crew at risk if they are not accounted for.

While clear skies can indicate pleasant weather, it does not provide a complete picture of safety. Temperature readings are generally less relevant to immediate boating safety compared to wind and water conditions. Observing other boats is important for navigation and avoiding collisions, but it does not directly relate to the environmental factors that can affect a vessel's performance on the water. Thus, focusing on wind and water conditions provides the most comprehensive assessment of the safety challenges that boaters may encounter.