|
Office of Public Affairs |
|
 |
|
| News Release |
Date: July 31, 2009 |
Coast Guard stresses importance of boating safety during Seafair |
|
|
SEATTLE — The Coast Guard is asking boaters to play it safe on the water during the 60th Annual Seattle Seafair. The following are some tips for staying safe on the water: 2. Cold Water Awareness: With the rising temperatures and the melting snow-pack the average water temperature in the rivers is hovering around 45 degrees. This water may feel refreshing on a hot day, but can be very dangerous when exposed to for long periods of time. 3. River Currents: Due to higher than normal temperatures, the melting snow-pack creates currents in many rivers which are moving swifter than normal. Since the elevation of the melting snow-pack is so high, debris such as large logs can be swept into the river system. These logs can be rather heavy and float just below the surface of the water. They can cause severe damage to small to medium size vessels and boaters should keep a keen lookout for this type of hazard. 4. STAY SOBER! : Operating a boat under the influence of intoxicants is illegal and dangerous. Operating a vessel under the influence does not only put the passengers on the vessel at risk, it puts everyone else on the river at risk also. Check with state boating regulations for specific guidelines. 5. Have a Marine Radio: Investing in a good marine radio is a very smart purchase. Cell phones should never be used as the primary form of communication on a vessel. The reception in some areas of the river may be poor or non-existent and precious time could be lost if an emergency does arise. A marine radio has many advantages such as a strong signal and channels reserved for distress calls. Distress calls are received by everyone monitoring a VHF radio in range, allowing for a quick response in cases of emergency. 6. Situational Awareness: The Coast Guard is reminding all boaters and waterway users to be aware of your surroundings at all times. It is important to know the limitations of your vessel. Most recreational vessels are not equipped to handle a strong current and can be overcome fairly easily. Parents should always keep a watchful eye on their children at all times. Many vessels are expected to be on the water during the coming days and weeks, being aware of all things around you is important for your safety. The Coast Guard is encouraging all boaters to use a common sense approach and a know-before-you-go attitude before and during recreational boating. Life jackets, radios, navigation equipment and weather forecasts are necessary preparations whenever you venture in the rivers. Have your vessel inspected by the Coast Guard Auxiliary, file a float plan, and ensure you and your passengers are familiar with all safety equipment. And most importantly wear your life jacket. To view a PSA on Keith Colburn, captain of The Wizard off The Discovery Channel's Deadliest Catch, speaking on the importance of not drinking while boating, click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DR3v4reuqK8&feature=channel_page To view a PSA on Keith Colburn, captain of The Wizard off The Discovery Channel's Deadliest Catch, speaking on the importance of wearing a life jacket, click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IA-BAqHWSac&feature=channel To view a PSA on Keith Colburn, captain of The Wizard off The Discovery Channel's Deadliest Catch, speaking on the importance of boating safety, click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omadPtPnpQU&feature=channel_page |
|
|
### Care to comment on this or another Coast Guard story? Click here to talk to us or visit our blog |
|
|
Saving Lives and Guarding the Coast Since 1790. |
|
printer friendly