Coast Guard urges boaters to be safe this Memorial Weekend

U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 05/25/2018 06:12 PM EDT

united states coast guard 

News Release  

U.S. Coast Guard 1st District Northeast
Contact: 1st District Public Affairs
Office: (617) 223-8515
After Hours: (617) 717-9609
1st District online newsroom

Coast Guard urges boaters to be safe this Memorial Weekend

Coast Guard Station Point Judith conducts tactical boat training on the 29-foot response boat on Oct. 7, 2016, off the coast of Rhode Island. Station Point Judith has 35 members and operates two 47-foot Motor Life Boats and a 29-foot response boat small(U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Nicole J. Groll)

Editors' Note: Click on image to download high-resolution version.

BOSTON — Boating safety officials across the First Coast Guard District are urging all boaters and paddlers to exercise caution and prudence on the water this Memorial Day weekend. 

This weekend signals the unofficial start to summer and kicks off the recreational boating season, which can be dangerous for any boater if not smart and prepared. 
The Coast Guard recommends all boaters and paddlecraft enthusiasts follow these safety measures:
  • Before you go out on the water, file a float plan with friends and family on land. This tells them where you are going and when you will return - and lets them know to contact authorities if something goes wrong.
  • Dress for the water temperature -  not the air temperature. Despite warm air and sunshine, it doesn't take long for hypothermia to happen in cold water.
  • Check the weather; it can change in an instant.
  • Make sure your cell phones and your VHF radio are charged, working, and within reach.
  • Check to make sure all your safety gear is in good working order such as fire extinguishers, flares, and first aid kits.
  • Don't just pack it - wear your life jacket! People do not go out on the water expecting an accident to happen. If one does, the best life jacket is the one you have on.
  • Label your kayaks, canoes, and paddle crafts with your name and phone number.
  • Don't drink and boat! 

 

 

The Coast Guard safe boating app, which can be personalized to your specific vessel, can be downloaded for cell phones via the app store or you can check it out at: http://uscgboating.org/mobile/. 

Editor’s note: Media interested in boating safety interviews with local Coast Guard crews are encouraged to contact the D1 duty PA at 617-717-9609. 

 

 

-USCG-