Shore
Watch Sets, reef, and the walk back out.
Abort is a skill If the exit disappears, the session is over.
Boat
Watch Ladder, current, and the surface marker the plan named.
Abort is a skill A drifting pickup is a plan problem, not a bravery test.
Current
Watch Which way it sets, and whether you can still reach the exit.
Abort is a skill Do not race a rip. Signal and leave is the skill.
Visibility
Watch How far the buddy stays a shape, and whether a light is required, not optional courage.
Abort is a skill Poor visibility is not a dare. Close the plan and surface on the signal.
Night and low light
Watch A light each, a surface reference, and whether the exit is still a shape you can name.
Abort is a skill A lost light or a lost horizon ends the session. Teaching envelope only — never a guaranteed-safe night site.