Happy National Safe Boating Week!
This year, it runs May 21-27.
The Safe Boating Campaign is a worldwide effort focused on responsible boating led by the National Safe Boating Council, with support from boating safety advocates around the world.
The most important safety device to have on your boat is a life jacket, said Erin Johnson, of the North Florida Marine Association.
Be sure your life jacket is in good shape and fits you well, Johnson said. You should also have a life jacket for every passenger on your boat. She also went over the “Safety Seven,” which are detailed below:
Be aware of the Safety Seven:
1. Wear your life jacket.
2. Take a boating safety class.
3. Carry all required safety gear.
4. Use your engine cut-off device.
5. File a float plan.
6. Be aware of weather and water conditions.
7. Boat sober, and be considerate of others.
Johnson said her organization urges boat owners to know about three recent U.S. Coast Guard regulations that have changed, what’s needed to be carried aboard, and how a vessel is to be operated at higher speeds.
Learn more by watching the video above, or at BoatJax.com.