Boating Safety Stressed Over Memorial Day Weekend

As we head into the Memorial Day weekend, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) wants to remind boaters to stay safe while out on the water.

Ten people in Florida have already lost their lives this year in boating accidents, according to FWC.

“FWC officers are committed to keeping people as safe as possible, but we need your help,” said Col. Calvin Adams, director of the FWC’s Division of Law Enforcement.

FWC suggests that boaters practice the following safety tips-

• Remain alert while operating a boat.
• Wear a life jacket at all times. Statistics also show that more than 67 percent of the 55 boating-related deaths confirmed last year were attributed to drowning, which life jackets are designed to prevent.
• Boat drivers should wear an engine shut-off switch at all times. An engine shut-off switch is a safety lanyard that attaches from the driver to the ignition. If it is disconnected, the engine will shut down, potentially preventing a boater who has fallen overboard from being injured by the moving propeller of a runaway boat. 
• Designate a sober boat operator.

To report people who are operating boats dangerously, call 888-404-FWCC or text Tip@MyFWC.com. More information can be found by visiting MyFWC.com/Boating.

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