Boating safety key on Fourth, and every day

Generally speaking, the Fourth of July holiday sees more boating activity than any other time of the year. This year, beginning July 1, a couple of changes have been made to the law.

Any boating accident involving death, or injury requiring medical treatment beyond first aid, or the disappearance of a person should be reported immediately to the TWRA. Also, all accidents involving property damage in excess of $2,000 (to one vessel or a combination of both vessels) must be reported within 10 days (increase from $500).

The detection and apprehension of boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a top priority for the TWRA. Alcohol affects a person three times faster on the water than on land due to stressors such as sun glare, heat, vibration, and wave action. It is illegal to operate a boat if impaired. The TWRA urges boaters to choose a designated skipper.

To help this popular family activity be a safe and enjoyable experience, here are a few suggestions:

‘ Wear your life jacket ‘ life jackets without a doubt save lives.

‘ If born after January 1, 1989, and operating a boat alone, you must have the TWRA- issued Boating Education Certificate onboard.

‘ Children 12 years old and younger must always wear a life jacket in a boat while the boat is underway ‘ drifting is considered underway.

Certain U.S. Coast Guard approved equipment is required:

‘ There must be a wearable life jacket on the boat for every person on board.

‘ There must be a Type IV throwable device (cushion or ring buoy) on board if the boat is 16 feet long or longer.

‘ A Type B fire extinguisher is required on personal watercraft and all boats with inboard engines, closed compartments, closed living spaces, or permanently installed fuel tanks.

Be aware of other boaters around you. Stay alert, keep a sharp lookout at all times and remember, ‘It’s About Time. Boat Safe, Boat Fun.’