National Safe Boating Week: Prepare for Safe, Summer Fun
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Boat owners in Rhode Island are preparing for another summer of boating, with recreational boating being at the top of the list for summer fun. While getting the boat back in the water and enjoying a gorgeous summer day on the bay is a priority as we approach summer here in the Ocean State, it is equally important to consider the rules of safe boating.
National Safe Boating Week is May 22-28, 2010, the perfect time to remind boaters that summer fun can turn into a deadly accident in an instant. The most recent statistics from the CDC show that 3,330 people were injured in boating accidents in 2008. More than 700 people died and of those who drowned, 9 out of 10 were not wearing life jackets. Alcohol was the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents.
The death of two young women who were passengers in a boat that crashed into tiny Despair Island, located midway between Prudence Island and Quonset Point, on May 16, 2010 is a stark reminder that boats should only be used by those who are responsible and well-educated in the rules of safe boating.
Drinking and boating is as dangerous as drinking and driving a car. Its use affects judgment, vision, balance, and coordination. The summer sun, enjoying a day of boating with friends and a few drinks could turn into an fatal excursion. U.S. Coast Guard data shows that in boating deaths involving alcohol use, over half the victims capsized their boats and/or fell overboard.
Boating under the influence of alcohol (BUI) is against the law in many states, including Rhode Island.
The U.S. Coast Guard stresses the use of properly fitted life jackets to prevent drownings. Everyone on every boat should wear one at all times.
In addition to using common sense, no alcohol and wearing a life jacket, Rhode Islanders must be certified to operate a vessel with a motor that exceeds 10-horse power. This certification is mandatory.
Who needs to be certified? Anyone born after January 1, 1986, as well as anyone who operates a personal watercraft (jet ski) regardless of age.
Learn more about the Rhode Island Online Boating Safety Course and Exam here.
Read about the Rhode Island State Boating Laws here.
