LIFE JACKETS ARE A “MUST” FOR A FUN-FILLED SEASON ON THE WATER
COLUMBUS, OH Reminding friends and family to wear life jackets and follow safe boating practices while on the water is the best way to ensure a safe boating experience. That's the message state watercraft officers want to impress upon boaters this season, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
"The fact is boating accidents do happen, yet if the proper measures are taken, lives can be saved," said Ken Alvey, chief of the ODNR Division of Watercraft. "We want people to enjoy Ohio's waters, and we also want them to return home safely to their families at the end of the day."
The Division of Watercraft reports that while boating fatalities have declined statewide in recent years, the majority of fatalities involve males ages 18 to 50. Although high speed is assumed to be the biggest factor leading to boating fatalities, it's failing to wear a life jacket or wear it properly that often turns a dangerous situation tragic.
"Life jackets are being designed to be lighter and more comfortable and therefore more appealing to those who should be wearing them," Alvey said.
Ohio law requires that children under the age of 10, who are riding in boats less than 18 feet long, must wear a life jacket. Life jackets are also required for any person riding a jet ski or being towed behind a boat.
Boaters are also reminded that, as with driving a vehicle, drinking alcohol while operating a boat is a lethal combination. Watercraft officers will issue citations to boaters who are operating watercraft while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. A person is considered legally intoxicated if their blood alcohol content exceeds .08 and this law applies equally to driving a motor vehicle under the influence, as well as operating a watercraft.
Knowledge of water levels, currents or drift, wind and waves is also important for a safe boating experience. A weather radio and a cellular phone, especially when boating near more rural or unpopulated areas, are desirable watercraft accessories.
"The best way to make sure your day on the water is fun and safe is by completing a boater education course that is approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators," Alvey said. "These classes are offered statewide and available online and through home study."
Boaters on Lake Erie need to be watchful of sandbars, banks, which are identified with markers and become more hazardous as water levels traditionally decrease throughout the summer. The obstacles can change from year to year, so boaters are asked not to rely on where sand bars were in previous years. For additional information about boater education courses and other boating programs and opportunities, visit the ODNR web site at ohiodnr.com