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Join us in celebrating National Safe Boating Week. As we prepare for the summer season, the Coast Guard urges all Americans to take a moment to reflect on the boating behaviors that will keep you, your loved ones, and those around you safe while on the water.
It is recommended that you always wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket appropriate to your water activity. Take a boating safety course or schedule some on water instruction. File a float plan with someone you trust and include a recent photo of your boat. Have a reliable means of communication for your area. Alcohol is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents, so it is recommended that you don’t drink and boat.
As a reminder of two recent changes, for operators of boats with mechanical propulsion the use of an installed Engine Cut-Off Switch is no longer optional, and there are updated fire extinguisher requirements for recreational boats.
It’s never too late to schedule a Vessel Safety Check, www.safetyseal.net.
For more information please visit www.safeboatingcampaign.com. The Safe Boating Campaign is produced under a grant from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, administered by the U.S. Coast Guard.