Tuesday, Aug. 31, 2010
Water Patrol urges safe boating practices over holiday weekend
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The Missouri State Water Patrol reminds boaters to take extra precautions and prepare for increased traffic on the water for the upcoming Labor Day weekend.
Many Missourians have been safely enjoying the state’s lakes, rivers and streams this year, but there have been 12 boating fatalities and 38 drowning deaths on Missouri’s waterways in 2010.
The Water Patrol reminds boaters not to let boating safety practices slide as the summer draws to a close. Remain vigilant and stay alert. Don’t become a victim.
* Inspect all vessel safety equipment and replace anything that has become worn or broken over the summer.
* Keep a lookout. While you may have operated your boat all summer, do not assume that every boater is as experienced or familiar with safe navigation practices. Allow for an extra margin of error in congested areas and assign passengers to help keep a safe lookout for other boats.
* Wear life jackets. Missouri law requires that children under age seven wear an approved flotation device. The Water Patrol recommends flotation devices for those seven and above also because drowning after unexpectedly falling or being thrown overboard is the leading type of fatal boating accident.
* Designate a captain in advance. If alcohol will be part of your plans, before boarding the boat, designate a captain who will not consume alcohol. Water Patrol officers will be working extra hours to keep Missouri’s waters safe and to remove intoxicated boaters over the holiday weekend.
* Education comes first. Don’t forget your boating safety certificate. Those born after Jan. 1, 1984 are required to possess a boating safety certificate while operating vessels on Missouri lakes.
By planning ahead and playing it safe this Labor Day weekend you can ensure a great end to the summer. Do your part to ensure Missouri’s waterways remain safe. Boat smart.
Watch the Missouri State Water Patrol homepage at www.mswp.dps.mo.gov for updates on boating safety courses in your area.
