Coast Guard Auxiliary Reports
Peg Phillips, executive director of the National Safe Boating Council stated, “Choose to boat responsibly and protect yourself and others by wearing a life jacket, using an engine cut-off switch, and never boating under the influence.
Don’t wait to put on a life jacket in an emergency – always wear it. Make sure everyone wears a life jacket – every time. A stowed life jacket is no use in an emergency. U.S. Coast Guard statistics show that drowning was the reported cause of death in three out of every four recreational boating fatalities, and that 85 percent of those who drowned were not wearing life jackets.
An engine cut-off switch is a proven safety device to stop a powerboat engine should the operator, or even passenger, unexpectedly fall overboard. Using the engine cut-off switch prevents propeller injuries and deaths – and, it’s the law. U.S. Coast Guard statistics show that in 2022, there were 173 propeller accidents resulting in 41 deaths and 182 injuries.
Boating under the influence is the leading contributing factor in recreational boater deaths. Boating can magnify the side effects of alcohol use, including impaired judgment, reduced balance and poor coordination. Never boat under the influence, and always designate a sober skipper.
“Be extra vigilant while boating…, and assign a lookout to watch for others on the water and keep a close eye on children,” said Phillips.
Check back next week for additional information from the NSBC.
Thanks to Sherrie, we will always remember safe boating is no accident!
If you would like to learn more about vessel safety checks, please contact Steve Hults, Staff Officer for Vessel Examinations at steve.hults@uscgaux.net.
Please contact us for more information about our safe boating classes or learning more about getting involved in the Auxiliary, check out our website at www.uscgaux.net follow us on FaceBook @ Apalachee Bay Flotilla 12 or contact our Flotilla Commander Phil Hill at pnkkhill2000@yahoo.com.
Please contact us to learn more about getting involved in the Auxiliary, check out our website at www.uscgaux.net follow us on FaceBook @ Apalachee Bay Flotilla 12 or contact our Flotilla Commander Phil Hill at pnkkhill2000@yahoo.com
The Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian volunteer component of the U.S. Coast Guard and supports the Coast Guard in nearly all mission areas. The Auxiliary was created by Congress in 1939. For more information, please visit www.cgaux.org.