National Safe Boating Week, May 17-23, 2014: Stay Safe on the Water

Summer is around the corner, which means it is almost time to put the boat in the water and get out the fishing poles and water skis! In 2012, the Coast Guard counted 4515 accidents that involved 651 deaths, 3000 injuries and approximately $38 million dollars of damage to property as a result of recreational boating accidents. Whichever activity floats your boat, make sure you are following these safety tips before you get out in the water:

  • Wear a life jacket: 70 percent of boating fatalities involve drowning, and of those who drowned, 86 percent were not wearing a life jacket. With a number of colors and styles available, there is no excuse for not wearing a life jacket.Image
  • Make sure your boat is properly equipped and your equipment is in good working order: In addition to all legally required equipment, such as life jackets and fire extinguishers, always carry a first aid kit, nautical charts and an anchor. Make sure your navigation lights are working properly.
  • Avoid alcohol: Nearly 50 percent of all boating accidents involve alcohol. Studies show that passengers also are 10 times more likely to fall overboard when they have been consuming alcohol.
  • File a float plan: Always let a family member or friend on shore know the “who, what, when, and where” of your trip. Include phone numbers for the local sheriff or U.S. Coast Guard in the event you don’t return when expected.
  • Maintain a sharp lookout: Always be alert for other boats, swimmers or skiers and objects in the water. This is especially true when operating in crowded waterways, and at night or during conditions of restricted visibility.
  • Carry a marine radio or cell phone: Be prepared to call for help in case you are involved in an accident, your boat becomes disabled, or you otherwise need assistance. Make sure a cell phone is fully charged, but be aware there often are gaps in cell-phone coverage on the water.

Keep these safety tips in mind so you can have a safe, accident free, and FUN summer of boating! This information is provided by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. To learn more about AlertID, please visit: www.AlertID.com

Category : Public Safety
Tags : , , , , ,