Memorial Day will soon mark the unofficial start of summer, and now is a good time to review boating safety before heading out on the water. The biggest thing to remember: Life jackets save lives!
More than 90% of boating-related drowning fatalities involve victims not wearing life jackets. It’s required by law to have a personal flotation device for each person on board, and the best way to stay safe is for everyone to wear their life jacket while on the water.
Here are some main points of boating safety. Check the DNR’s boating safety webpage for complete safety tips.
- Always wear a life jacket when you’re on or near the water.
- Never use drugs or alcohol before or during boat operation.
- Keep an eye on the weather and bring a radio. Get off the water if bad weather is approaching.
- Tell someone where you are going and when you will return.
- Have a fire extinguisher, operable boat lights and emergency supplies such as a cellphone, maps, flares and first-aid kit in a floating waterproof pouch.
- Know your boat’s capacity and don’t overload it with passengers or gear.
- Follow navigation and other rules on the water.