While the traditional start of Ohio's boating season is two months away, state watercraft officers are now busy performing vessel safety checks, providing boater safety information, and implementing a new program aimed at protecting recreational boaters.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Watercraft is launching Operation Overboard to reduce the likelihood of boating mishaps due to overloading and other unsafe conditions. Boaters are already enjoying Ohio's lakes and rivers, and their numbers will increase as mild, spring-like temperatures begin moving into the state.
"It is never too early to remind Ohioans about boater safety," said Jeff Hoedt, chief of ODNR Division of Watercraft. "Operation Overboard is another tool we can use in our efforts to educate boaters and reduce the number of fatalities on Ohio's waterways."
Last year, 18 of Ohio's 25 boating fatalities resulted from capsizing or people falling overboard. In most cases, victims were not wearing life jackets at the time of their accidents.
Operation Overboard directs watercraft officers to specifically look for potential hazards, such as improperly loaded boats, during vessel safety checks. The new program primarily targets people using small boats on inland waters. Capsizing, swamping, and people falling overboard comprise 84 percent of all boating fatalities.
Ohio registered 416,798 recreational watercraft last year, ranking the state eighth nationally. An estimated 3.5 million people go boating in Ohio each year.
"The number of boating accidents and fatalities is relatively small compared to the number of registered watercraft," said Hoedt. "But even one boating fatality is one too many. Our goal is to educate and protect the public so that they can experience a safe and enjoyable boating season."
As part of Operation Overboard, the Division of Watercraft has shifted to single officer patrol units and is increasing its presence on the state's waterways by employing more watercraft officers.
Last year, Ohio joined several other states in establishing a mandatory boater education law requiring persons born on or after January 1, 1982 to complete a boater education course prior to operating a boat with more than 10 horsepower.
Persons interested in learning about Ohio's Boater Education Course program may call the Division of Watercraft's toll-free information line at 1-877-4BOATER or visit the ODNR web site at www.dnr.state.oh.us