National Safe Boating Week, taking place May 17-23, serves as an annual reminder to enhance boating safety ahead of the boating season.
As warmer weather arrives, recreational activities on and around Alabama’s beautiful lakes increase. This increase in lake visitors highlights the importance of prioritizing safety.
Ensuring that life jackets are available on your boat is a crucial step in protecting all passengers, and it is a practice mandated by law in all 50 states. In Alabama, boats are required to carry properly sized, wearable personal flotation devices (PFDs) for each individual onboard or being towed and children under the age of eight must always wear a Coast Guard-approved PFD while on any vessel.
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), most boating fatalities are the result of capsizing or falling overboard when people are not wearing a life jacket. It is crucial to recognize that life jackets come in various types and sizes, including five levels of life jackets and throwable flotation devices. Selecting the appropriate type based on your activities or boating conditions is essential.
Beyond life jackets, there are several other measures to ensure a safe boating experience. The National Safe Boating Council recommends the following tips:
- Enroll in a boating safety course to acquire valuable knowledge and hands-on experience, suitable for both novice and experienced boaters.
- Conduct a thorough equipment check. Arrange a complimentary vessel safety check with the local U.S. Power Squadrons (America’s Boating Club) to confirm the presence, functionality, and condition of essential equipment.
- Create a float plan. Inform someone onshore about your trip’s details, including operator and passenger identities, boat type and registration, and onboard communication equipment.
- Wear life jackets consistently. A life jacket stored away is ineffective in emergencies.
- Use an engine cut-off device, as required by law. This safety device can stop the boat’s engine if the operator falls overboard.
- Be vigilant about the weather. Check the forecast before setting out and keep updated throughout your trip.
- Know your route and maintain safe speeds. Familiarize yourself with the area, adhere to local boating speed zones, and always navigate at a safe speed.
- Avoid boating under the influence. Alcohol use is a leading factor in fatal boating accidents. Designate a sober skipper.
- Stay connected. Ensure you have multiple communication devices that function when wet, such as VHF radios, emergency locator beacons, satellite phones, and cellphones, for use in emergencies.
These guidelines can help boaters enjoy Alabama’s lakes safely and responsibly during the boating season and beyond.
For details about Alabama Power lakes, download the Shorelines app on your mobile device.
ALEA Boating Equipment Checklist: Boat Equipment Checklist For Alabama | Alabama Law Enforcement Agency
Safer Boating Campaign: Safe Boating Campaign
