FWC reminds boaters to boat smart, safely

For immediate release: May 26, 2011
Contact: Officer Jorge Pino, 561-723-1417 (Miami-Dade County);
Officer Robert Dube, 305-684-8703 (Monroe County);
Gabriella B. Ferraro, 772-215-9459 (Martin, Palm Beach and Broward counties)

Media note: Ride-alongs are available.

FWC reminds boaters to boat smart, safely

Memorial Day weekend marks the “unofficial” start to summer, and many Floridians and visitors are making boating plans. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds boaters to be smart and safe on the water.

“Enjoy the day by remembering a few safety precautions, such as remaining alert while operating a boat and wearing your life jacket,” said Capt. Tom Shipp of the FWC’s Boating and Waterways Section. “Check your boating safety equipment and registration before you leave the dock, so you are ready for any problems that might arise on the water.”

According to the FWC, inattentiveness of the operator often contributes to boating accidents, and statistics show that more than 60 percent of the 79 boating-related deaths confirmed last year were attributed to drowning.

So far this year, 18 people have lost their lives in boating accidents in state waters.
“The combination of paying better attention, abiding by the navigation rules and wearing life jackets all the time while on the water could result in fewer injuries and deaths each year,” Shipp said.

For more boating safety information, visit MyFWC.com/Boating.