COLUMBUS, OH -- Boaters who participate in a courtesy inspection of their vessels during National Safe Boating Week this May will receive a free floating key chain from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Watercraft.

"Starting out the season with a thorough review of a boat's equipment, making sure that the essential gear is back on the vessel after the winter, is the first step to a safe boating season," said Jeff Hoedt, chief of the Division of Watercraft. "With our courtesy inspection, we look for the items that could prove critical while out on the water in emergency situations, including flares, fire extinguishers and life jackets."

The key chains, a watertight floating canister that is ideal for carrying boat registration, will be distributed throughout National Safe Boating Week, May 20-26, as well as the three-day Memorial Day weekend. According to Hoedt, watercraft officers will also be issuing special inspection decals commemorating the Division’s 40^th anniversary to boaters completing an inspection throughout the entire 2000 boating season.

The theme for this year's National Safe Boating Week is "Boat Smart from the Start. Wear Your Life Jacket."

"Wearing a life jacket is essential to boating safety. Contrary to popular belief, most fatal boating accidents are not the result of massive collisions, but occur when someone falls overboard or capsizes a boat. In such situations, even experienced swimmers can tire, lose coordination and drown," Hoedt said.

Last year in Ohio, 19 people died while boating. A life jacket was not used by 16 of the victims.

A variety of public activities will be held across Ohio promoting National Safe Boating Week. A complete listing of activities is available at www.dnr.state.oh.us/odnr/watercraft.

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