SEATTLE — The Coast Guard reminds all Pacific Northwest boaters to be prepared and operate safely over the Labor Day weekend.
Labor Day weekend should be a fun time for families and friends on the waterways of the region. Boating safely ensures everyone enjoys their time on the water and returns home. Here are some tips to make that happen:
ALWAYS:
§ Wear a lifejacket. There were 328 deaths across the nation in 2013 in which boaters were reportedly not wearing lifejackets. Children 13 years of sage and younger are required by law to wear a lifejacket while on a boat on the water.
§ Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. While the weather may be nice and air temperatures warm, the ocean temperatures in the Pacific Northwest remain around 55 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months. In about 10 to 15 minutes, boaters exposed to cold water may experience diminished strength and may not be able to pull themselves back into their vessel. Children and smaller adults may succumb more rapidly to the effects of cold-water exposure.
§ Create a float plan and give it to someone at home. A float plan allows family and friends to know the important Ws: where you’re going, when you’ll be back, and whom you’ll be with. It’s also important to stick to the plan and let them know if it changes.
§ Have a working VHF-FM radio aboard your vessel. The Coast Guard can always be reached on channel 16, the international hailing and distress frequency. Remember, that channel is only for emergencies and should never be used as a toy or for making hoax calls.
§ Be mindful of your surroundings, especially when entering the water. Water depths can change rapidly along the coastline and waves and rip currents can be very strong and unpredictable. Sadly, rip currents have already claimed several lives along the Washington and Oregon coasts this season.
NEVER:
§ Drink and boat. In 2013 alcohol was a contributing factor to 236 boating accidents and 75 deaths. Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and can carry steep fines and penalties.
§ Use your flares as fireworks. A flare signals distress, to which the Coast Guard responds with urgency and vigilance. Setting off a flare when not in distress can interfere with legitimate search and rescue cases and could place responders at risk.
For more information on vessel safety, please visit: http://www.uscgboating.org/.