National Safe Boating Week

National Safe Boating Week is May 20-26, 2023. This event is intended to spread safety awareness to those who will be operating boats this season. While boating is fun and gives you the opportunity to enjoy activities on the water, it’s important to keep these safety tips in mind to prevent potential injuries or fatalities.

1. Do not drink and operate a boat.
According to the National Safe Boating Council, boating under the influence is the cause of one-third of all recreational boating fatalities.

2. Have an adequate number of life jackets.
Your boat should always have enough life jackets for the number of individuals on board.

3. Pay attention to your surroundings.
Even if you are paying attention to what is happening around you on the water, other boaters may not be. Make sure you are always on the lookout for possible safety hazards.

4. Turn off the engine.
Be sure to turn the engine off before anyone exits from your boat. Leaving the engine on while people are leaving the boat can cause severe injuries. Always use the engine cut-off device on your boat. Utilizing this device is not only essential to your safety, it’s also the law.

5. Check the weather.
When going boating, it’s important to check the weather for the day and continue to check it throughout the day. The last thing you want to do is get caught in a bad storm on the water.

6. Always inspect your boat prior to leaving the dock.
Inspecting your boat prior to leaving can help you discover any issues the boat may have that could create safety hazards on the water. During these inspections, make sure you have enough gas for the day and confirm the engine is running correctly.