JUNEAU, Alaska — Coast Guard Sector Juneau encourages boaters to make safety a priority during the Golden North Salmon Derby this weekend.
The Coast Guard reminds all boaters to boat responsibly while on the water and avoid the consumption of alcohol. The use of life jackets, emergency beacons, flares, float plans and appropriate communications devices are advised for anyone operating a watercraft.
"Boaters need to be aware that Alaska is known for rapidly changing weather and frigid waters.” said Lt. Jennifer Ferreira, Sector Juneau public affairs officer. "We want to ensure that anyone going out on the water has planned ahead, checked the weather, filed a float plan and is wearing life jackets."
The Coast Guard recommends that every boater carry the following safety items:
- A 406 Mhz EPIRB (make sure you register it after purchase, or rescuers may be delayed in reaching you! In remote Alaska areas, this may become your ONLY way to call for help.)
- A Coast Guard-approved life jacket (because they float, you don’t…)
- A handheld VHF marine radio with extra batteries
- A Coast Guard approved fire extinguisher
- A first aid kit packed in a watertight container
- A signaling kit (mirror, whistle and day/ night flares)
- Warm and water resistant clothing appropriate for Alaska’s extreme environments
- And for larger boats, a life raft with a survival kit
To reach the Coast Guard for an emergency, call the Sector Juneau Command Center at 907-463-2980.
For more information on the importance of boating safety and resources detailing steps that can be taken to minimize risk on the water, including scheduling vessel safety checks, please visit safeboatingcampaign.com and uscgboating.org.