The upcoming 4th of July holiday weekend is traditionally one of the busiest boating weekends of the year. Here are several tips to have a safe, fun, accident-free holiday:
*Wear your life jacket: Accidents happen quickly, and often there isn’t time to put on a life jacket once an accident has happened. Statistics consistently show that 80 percent of those who died in boating accidents were not wearing life jackets
*Alcohol and water do not mix; designate a sober operator. Almost half of all boating accidents involve alcohol.
*Check your lights: Before you leave the ramp or marina make sure your navigation lights are working properly.
*Learn to swim: You never know when it might save your life.
*Swim in designated areas.
*Don’t overload your boat: The number of seats available on board is not always the best indicator of capacity. Look for the boat’s capacity plate or check the owner manual for safe operation.
*File a float plan: let someone know where you are going and when you will return.
*Be weather wise: Pay attention to the day’s weather forecast and seek safe shelter immediately should a storm threaten. And remember, lightning can strike and kill a boater even if a storm is still miles away.
*Watch your speed: With increased speed comes less reaction time when confronted with near miss/hit situations.
*Attach your emergency kill switch to yourself: In the event of a fall overboard, this will shut the engine off and prevent the vessel from circling back on you.
*Keep a sharp lookout: Watch for other boaters and obstacles on the water.
*Know before you go: Operators should be familiar with the laws and safe boating practices prior to getting on the water.
