Boating Safety

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Boating Safety, in 1998 more than 800 lives were lost as a result of recreational boating accidents in the U.S. and its territories.

The loss of life and property may have been avoided if recreational boaters were properly trained in the safe operation of their boats. Safety courses provide information about the training every recreational boater should have.

As with driving an automobile, boating and alcohol do not mix well. Boating under the influence of alcohol and drugs is illegal.

If you have a consumer complaint about a possible safety defect, you can notify the U.S. Coast Guard about it by submitting a Safety Defect Report.

Whether you are going boating alone or with others, someone who is not going with you should have details your trip, so they can alert proper authorities if something should go wrong. Below are 10 basic rules of boating safety:

1. Carry adequate safety equipment.
2. Tell someone where you are going.
3. Know the rules and regulations.
4. Carry approved and suitable Personal Flotation Devices
5. Watch the weather.
6. Carry sufficient fuel and water.
7. Guard against fire.
8. Ensure that your engine will be reliable.
9. Don't overload.
10. Don't mix alcohol or drugs and boating.