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Wildlife Commission Encourages Boater Safety Tips

  • 17 May 2018
  • Number of views: 1465

RALEIGH, N.C. (MAY 17, 2018) — With warmer weather and summer on the way, many families will head to the water to beat the heat and cool off. The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission encourages boaters to consider these tips to remain safe on the water:

Attend a Boater Safety Course. A variety of options, including in-class and online, are available.

  • Wear a Coast Guard approved Personal Flotation Device or life jacket at all times when boating or on a personal watercraft. Eighty percent of people who have drown in boating accidents were not wearing a life jacket. A properly fitted life jacket is snug, yet comfortable, and will not move above the chin or ears when lifted at the shoulders.

    Appoint a designated driver for the boat. Driving a boat under the influence of alcohol is illegal. Alcohol makes it difficult to drive safely, see objects in the water and supervise children so they are safe.

    Assign an adult “Water Watcher” to actively supervise the children in or around the water at all times. A Water Watcher’s role is to focus on watching the water without the distractions of activities, such as socializing, texting, fishing, drinking and reading. Young children and people who are not strong swimmers should always be kept within arm’s reach.

    Only swim in designated swimming areas. Swimming in the open water can cause visibility issues for other boaters making it difficult to see swimmers. Avoid diving in areas that are unfamiliar as there may be hidden boulders, stumps and pilings.

    Throw, don’t go. Be prepared to throw a floatation device or use a pole or tree branch to reach someone struggling in the water. Never jump in to save someone, because you could be pulled under, too.
Media Contact:

Chris Huebner
919-707-0033

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