You Are in Command
Did you know that waterways are second only to highways as the SCENE OF ACCIDENTAL DEATHS in the US?
Please review this article, it could save a life.
On average, two boaters are killed every day on America’s waterways – more than 700 per year. Thousands of others are injured. Too often these accidents happen when otherwise responsible, conscientious people make the serious mistake of assuming that their experience or equipment is enough to keep them and their passengers safe.
As a boat owner, YOU are responsible for your safety, the safety of your passengers, and other boaters. That’s why the U.S. Coast Guard reminds you, “You’re in Command. Boat Responsibly!”
Here are 3 basic tips that the U.S. Coast Guard promotes, preaches, and pleads.
- Always wear your life jacket. Accidents can happen without warning. There’s rarely time to reach stowed jackets. It is estimated that 86% of the recreational boaters that drowned were not wearing their life jacket.
- Never boat under the influence. The sun, wind, noise, vibration, and motion common to the marine environment intensify the effect of alcohol, drugs, and even some prescription medications. These “stressors” can cause fatigue and dramatically affect judgement, balance, coordination, and reaction time. Approximately one-third of fatal boating accidents involve Boating Under the Influence (BUI). Be a responsible boater.
- Take a boating safety course. From boat handling to weather… from navigation to the “rules of the road” … educated boaters are safe boaters. Approximately 80% of all boating fatalities occurred on boats where the operator had never taken a boating safety course. Everyone in your family should take a boating safety course. Do not rely on dad or uncle Bob to show you the ropes. Many are available online. Just search “boating safety courses online. You never know when it may be your responsibility to be in command of a situation on the water.
For more detailed information about your safety and the safety of your family, friends, and neighbors, contact your local U.S. Coast Guard office for information on your options to get everyone “dialed in” on boating safety.
