FWC reminds boaters to boat smart, safely
News Release
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Media contact: Officer Jorge Pino, 561-723-1417 (Miami-Dade Co.);
Officer Robert Dube, 305-684-8703 (Monroe Co.);
Gabriella B. Ferraro, 772-215-9459 (Martin, Palm Beach and Broward counties)
Memorial Day weekend marks the
"unofficial" start to summer, and many Floridians and visitors are
making boating plans. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission (FWC) reminds boaters to be smart and safe on the
water.
"Enjoy the day by remembering a few
safety precautions, such as remaining alert while operating a boat
and wearing your life jacket," said Capt. Tom Shipp of the FWC's
Boating and Waterways Section. "Check your boating safety equipment
and registration before you leave the dock, so you are ready for
any problems that might arise on the water."
According to the FWC, inattentiveness
of the operator often contributes to boating accidents, and
statistics show that more than 60 percent of the 79 boating-related
deaths confirmed last year were attributed to drowning.
So far this year, 18 people have lost
their lives in boating accidents in state waters.
"The combination of paying better
attention, abiding by the navigation rules and wearing life jackets
all the time while on the water could result in fewer injuries and
deaths each year," Shipp said.
For more boating safety information,
visit MyFWC.com/Boating.
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