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Each year hundreds of lives are lost... thousands are injured... and millions of dollars of property damage occurs because of preventable recreational boating accidents on U.S. waterways. Too often pleasure outings turn tragic. You as a boat operator, passenger, or concerned individual can make a difference. We can help you gain the skills and perform the planning and preparation required to ensure a safe and rewarding experience,  For more information  LINKTO USCG Recreational Boating Guidelines  

Ensure your vessel (including equipment) is in proper working order

An inspection and inventory is recommended every time you take your boat out. And an annual vessel exam by qualified Vessel Examiners of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is also strongly recommended.   Click here to learn more about annual vessel exams: LINK TO: VESSEL SAFETY CHECK 

 

 Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs aka Life Jackets)

• Florida law requires one wearable PFD for each person aboard any vessel.
• Ensure wearable PFDs are readily accessible.
• At least one Type IV (throwable device) PFD must be kept on board any vessel 16 feet or longer.
• Ensure throwable PDFs are immediately accessible
• Someone being towed behind a vessel must wear a PFD.
• All PWC occupants must be wearing their PFD while underway (not anchored or moored).
• Florida law requires children under the age of six to wear a PFD on vessels less then twenty-six feet of length at all times. 

The regulations for proper use of PDF (especially for children) vary if you are in state regulated waters (within 3 miles from the coast) or within federal regulated waters (between 3 and 12 miles from the coast). Be sure you are familiar with and conform with the appropriate regulations.

 LINK TO: USCG PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES

 

Have an experienced leader in charge (Captain, Skipper, Coxswain, Commander)

Having the skills required to drive a car, doesn't mean you can safely operate a boat.  Boating is effected by a totally different set of dynamics and requires a totally different set of skills.   There are various titles for the person who is experienced and in charge of the vessel while underway. But one thing is certain, you should not operate a boat without that leader who understands the circumstances that arise, and actions that must be taken to ensure the safety of all aboard. Florida law mandates that anyone born after January 1, 1988 must have a Safe Boater ID to operate a boat. The Auxiliary offers classes for acquiring these skills and becoming that leader:  LINK TO: ABOUT BOATING SAFETY

Here is a helpful resource for acquiring the knowledge and expertise to be in command of your vessel. LINK TO: REGULATIONS GUIDE 

 

Paddle Boats and Personal Water Craft

Paddle boats and personal watercraft (PWC) are a great way to get more exercise, and are easier than boats when you are alone. pasting   But they also have unique risks and regulations and require specialized skills. Below are helpful websites that focus specifically on these vessels.

• LINK TO PADDLEBOAT SAFETY
• LINK TO PERSONAL WATERCRAFT INFO

 

Know your surroundings and plan your journey

This section covered the many things involved with ensuring safe boating.   For more specific information about boating in Sarasota be sure to see the section “Sarasota Waterways”.

 LINK TO SARASOTA WATERWAYS