 Ohio's 3 million boaters are urged to "Boat Smart, Boat Safe, Wear It" as part of a new national campaign to promote the use of life jackets while on the water, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
The campaign will kick off during National Safe Boating Week, May 17-23 - just in time for the Memorial Day weekend, the traditional start of Ohios summer boating season. The National Safe Boating Council spearheads Safe Boating Week each year in an effort to reduce accidents on the country's recreational waterways.
Most mishaps can be avoided by observing a few basic boating rules:
- Always wear an approved U.S. Coast Guard life jacket properly when boating.
- Avoid alcohol consumption.
- Be prepared to handle or assist in an emergency situation.
- Dont overload a boat with passengers and gear.
- Observe the "rules of the road" when operating a boat on any waterway.
- File a float plan with a responsible person before heading out.
- Be alert to all existing and forecasted weather conditions.
State watercraft officers, in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the U.S. Power Squadrons and some local marine patrol units around Ohio, will also conduct courtesy boat safety inspections during May.
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