COLUMBUS, OH - In an effort to reduce early season boating accidents from improperly loaded watercraft, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) kicks off its "Operation Overboard" statewide campaign this month.
The campaign emphasizes the dangers associated with overloaded boats that can become swamped and capsize in frigid waters. It also reminds boaters to always wear a life jacket when on the water.
"Properly loading your boat and wearing a life jacket are especially important in the early spring when waters are very cold and fast moving," said Ken Alvey, chief of the ODNR Division of Watercraft.
Early season boaters and anglers tend to dress according to air temperatures, but often forget that water temperatures in Ohio's lakes and streams remain in the 30s and 40s during March and April.
State watercraft officers and local marine patrols will be conducting boat safety inspections at launch ramps around Ohio this spring to advise boaters on safety with special attention to loading conditions.
"It's important to be aware of the risks associated with boating this time of year and the necessity of wearing a life jacket," said Alvey.
Information regarding boating safety and tips for avoiding hypothermia are available at ohiodnr.com