|
June 25, 2007
SUMMER FOCUS REMAINS ON BOATING SAFETY
Boaters encouraged to stay sober and alert while traveling on state waterways
 COLUMBUS, OH - As the July 4th holiday approaches, boaters are reminded to stay sober and focused on waterway safety.
"Since the July 4th holiday does not fall on a weekend this year, we hope for fewer incidences of boating and drinking," said Mike Quinn, acting chief of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Watercraft. "However, boaters need to remain focused on safety, including staying alert and sober on our waterways."
State watercraft officers made a record 107 arrests last year for operating a boat while impaired. Boaters who have a blood alcohol content of .08 percent or higher are subject to arrest, the same as operators of motor vehicles.
In addition to patrols by state watercraft officers, some local law enforcement agencies also patrol Ohio waterways and make arrests for impaired boating. Of this year’s five boating-related fatalities in the state, three were attributed in part to alcohol usage.
In addition to staying sober on the waterways, ODNR recommends that all boaters properly wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket anytime while boating, keep a proper lookout for other boaters, swimmers and navigational hazards, operate watercraft in a safe and responsible manner and complete an approved boating safety education course.
More information on boating safety tips, education programs, boating rules and requirements, launch ramp locations and boating destinations can be obtained online at ohiodnr.com and by calling toll-free 877-4BOATER.
|