In the run-up to this holiday weekend, the Coast Guard offered a stark reminder about the importance of boating safely: 64 people died and 162 were injured in Pacific Northwest waters last year.

Below are a few tips for making sure you, your boat and your crew all return safely this holiday weekend:

• Wear a life jacket. Statistics show that a person’s chance of survival greatly improves when wearing a life jacket. All children under the age of 12 and who weigh less than 90 pounds are required to wear a life jacket at all times while boating. Before boating, be sure that all life jackets are in good shape, fit properly, and are stowed in an easily accessible location. In 2008, two-thirds of all fatal boating accident victims drowned; and of those, 90 percent were not wearing a life jacket.
• File a float plan and leave it with someone who is not recreating on the water. A float plan is a lifesaving device on paper and can assist emergency responders with locating a distressed mariner.
• Stay sober. Operating a boat under the influence of intoxicants is illegal and dangerous. Operating a vessel under the influence does not only put the passengers on the vessel at risk, it puts everyone else on the river at risk also. Check with state boating regulations for specific guidelines.
• Have a marine radio. Investing in a good marine radio is a very smart purchase. Cell phones should never be used as the primary form of communication on a vessel. The reception may be poor or non-existent and precious time could be lost if an emergency does arise. A marine radio has many advantages such as a strong signal and channels reserved for distress calls. Distress calls are received by everyone monitoring a VHF radio in range, allowing for a quick response in cases of emergency.
• Stay alert and aware. Be aware of your surroundings at all times. It is important to know the limitations of your vessel. Most recreational vessels are not equipped to handle a strong current and can be overcome fairly easily. Parents should always keep a watchful eye on their children at all times. Many vessels are expected to be on the water during the coming days and weeks, being aware of all things around you is important for your safety.

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