Boating safety tips

COLUMBUS – With the start of the summer boating season, some Ohio communities are already experiencing high boating traffic.

“Wearing your life jacket and staying alert for water hazards are easy ways to stay safe,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “But staying safe also means respecting your fellow boaters at public launch ramps, and never mixing alcohol and boating!”

ODNR and the National Safe Boating Council offers these tips for enjoying a safe and fun holiday weekend on the water:

• Wear a life jacket. Make sure everyone is wearing a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

• Check equipment. Make sure you have and know how to use all the essential equipment.

• Make a float plan. Let family and friends know where you’re going and when you will return.

• Use an engine cutoff device. An engine cutoff device is a proven safety device to stop the boat’s engine should the operator unexpectedly fall overboard.

• Watch the weather. Always check the forecast before departing on the water and frequently during your excursion.

• Know what’s going on around you at all times. Often, boating accidents are caused by operator inattention or improper lookout.

• Know where you’re going and travel at safe speeds. Familiarize yourself with local boating speed zones.

• Never boat under the influence. A BUI is involved in one-third of all recreational boating fatalities.

•Keep in touch. Cell phones, satellite phones, personal locator beacon, and VHF radios can all be important devices in an emergency.