Dear Boater,
With more Texans enjoying the water in 2020, we've seen upticks in the numbers of boating and water related accidents and injuries. With 4 more months remaining, 2020's numbers have already exceeded last year's numbers. In addition, open water drownings, boating fatalities and property damage are all on track to exceed 2019.
If you plan to be out on the water this Labor Day weekend, please take these simple steps to boat safely and responsibly.
Boat Smart. Boat Safe.
Follow these 5 tips to boat safe and avoid citations on the water:
- Wear a life jacket
- Avoid alcohol
- Supervise children
- Use the safety switch
- Learn how to swim
These steps are critical in practicing boating safety and ignoring them can lead to unfortunate results. See true stories from people affected by boating or swimming-related accidents.
New Boating Law
Kali’s Law now requires Texas boat operators to wear an engine cutoff switch when operating a boat under 26 ft. in length that is equipped with the switch and is going greater than headway speed.
More on this law and other boating regulations at OutdoorAnnual.com/Boating.
You play an important role in protecting the lakes we love from invasive species. Invasive species like giant salvinia and zebra mussels can ruin fishing, boating, and swimming for everyone. There are still many Texas lakes without invasive species, but boaters can unknowingly transfer them upstream, to other river basins, or even to other states. What can you do to help? Even if you don't see anything on your boat, clean, drain, and dry it before traveling from lake to lake.
If your boat has been stored in the water on a lake with zebra mussels, there's a good chance they've attached to your boat. Before moving your boat to another lake, it must be decontaminated. Call us at (512) 389-4848 for guidance.
The U.S. Coast Guard Wants Your Feedback!
The U.S. Coast Guard is conducting a short online survey to determine the navigational needs and requirements of vessels operating in shallow draft navigable waterways throughout the country. They are seeking input from boaters who operate on navigable waters of the U.S. where the depth is 12 feet or less.
Questions include: years of experience, waters where you operate and how often, what navigation tools you use (radar, electronic charting systems, etc.), your concerns and more!
Please take a few minutes to assist the Coast Guard – take the survey by Nov. 1.
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Boating and Water Safety Resources
Boater Education | Boating Access | Boating Laws | National Safe Boating Council | Water Safety | Watch Kids Around the Water | National Drowning Prevention Alliance | Invasive Species
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