Importance of Safe Boating Practices During Labor Day Weekend

Coast Guard and Maryland Natural Resources Police are Reminding Boaters ~ the Importance of Safe Boating Practices During Labor Day Weekend.

BALTIMORE — As the 2013 boating season comes to a close, the Coast Guard and Maryland Natural Resources Police are reminding boaters about the importance of safe boating practices during Labor Day weekend.

The Coast Guard urges the public to always think about safety and to anticipate any possibility when going out on the water.
Here are some tips to help boaters have a safe and prepared time on the water during the remainder of the summer:

•Life jackets save lives. Out of all the 2012 fatal boating accidents where drowning was the cause of death, 85 percent were reported as not wearing a life jacket. Accidents can leave even a strong swimmer injured, unconscious and exhausted in the water.

•Boating under the influence or boating while intoxicated is just as deadly as drinking and driving. It is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in every state. Penalties for violating BUI and BWI laws can include large fines, suspension or revocation of boat operator privileges and jail. Alcohol use is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents.

•File a float plan. A float plan states where you are going and how many people are aboard your vessel. It also gives a vessel description, details your destination and what time you expect to arrive there. If you are delayed for some reason, make sure you let someone know.

•A VHF-FM radio is the best method of communication while on the water. Although cell phones are a good backup, they can be unreliable due to gaps in coverage area and are reliant on batteries.

Submitted:
U.S. Coast Guard