As we head into a holiday weekend, there will likely be an increase in boating traffic and with that the potential for novice boaters and those who may be unfamiliar with our area.
USCG Auxiliary Recreational Boating Safety division has put out tips to help ensure everyone has a good time when out on the water.
First, they encourage everyone to participate in a safe boating class and get a vessel safety check before hitting the water. Part of the vessel check will ensure that you have life jackets, visual distress signals, sound producing devices, an EPIRB or PLB, fire extinguishers, navigation lights, water for hydration, correct permits and filing of a float plan.
Knowing the correct life jacket for the person and boat is critical. Making sure they are accessible and properly sized is important. You don’t want to find out in the water you have the wrong life jacket.
When out on the water, it is important to remember the effects of alcohol can be intensified and it is possible to get a BUI (boating under the influence). Remember to stay hydrated.
Heat and alcohol can affect boaters reaction time and decision making. Be mindful of this when out and monitor yourself and others on the boat for signs of weather-related illness such as heat exhaustion and boating while intoxicated.
It is critical that you also pay attention to what is going on around you to help avoid dangerous situations. Weather can change quickly, it is important to monitor weather conditions when boating.
Thanks to Sherrie, we will always remember safe boating is no accident! Enjoy celebrating, but remember a good day on the water means everyone makes it home safely.
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.
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.
