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News Release



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 29, 1999


ODNR DIVISION OF WATERCRAFT OFFERS TIPS FOR SPRING BOATING

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Warm days after a long winter can be alluring to everyone who enjoys the outdoors, especially boaters. Whether taking advantage of early season fishing, navigating fast moving streams carrying the spring thaw, sailing at the will of good spring winds or just testing out the boat after a long hibernation, spring finds many boaters on the water.

While the air might warm quickly, water temperatures stay colder longer. If a boater is unprepared for a cold water accident this time of year, events that might be minor incidents in warmer weather may quickly turn to tragedy. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Watercraft offers the following safety tips to keep that spring boating outing safe and enjoyable:

  • Check the latest weather forecast and keep an eye to the sky.

Prepare for the possibility of encountering bad weather on every boating outing. Strong winds and waves brought on by bad weather increase the risks of a boater ending up in the water.

· Always wear a life jacket.

A life jacket keeps a person afloat even after the shock of falling into frigid water. Additionally, life jackets provide excellent insulation against cold, wind and rain. Ohio law requires that all watercraft be equipped with a Coast Guard-approved, wearable lifejacket for each person on board. Lifejackets must also be worn at all times by children under 10 years of age on boats less than 18 feet.

· Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.

While the days may be warm and sunny, water temperatures stay cooler longer. One of the major causes of boating fatalities is hypothermia, the rapid reduction of body temperature, which occurs when boaters fall into cold water.
  • File a float plan.

Tell family or a trusted friend the general area of the waterway you plan to use, whom you are taking with you, when you are leaving and when you plan to return. Include information about your vehicle, boat and watercraft registration number. Remember to let that person know when you have returned safely.

  • Keep a proper lookout.

Not heeding this basic navigation rule is a leading cause of accidents. Always be aware of your surroundings before changing course or speed.
  • Do not overload a boat.

An overloaded boat sits lower in the water, which increases the chances of swamping or capsizing by waves. Do not exceed the carrying capacity in passengers or total gear. Keep as much weight as possible in the middle of the boat. To keep the boat riding high in the water, limit the load to only essential items.
  • Boat sober.

Alcoholic beverages and boating do not mix. Alcohol affects balance, vision, judgement and coordination, all factors of safe boating. Research has shown that when combined with boating stressors such as sun, wind, noise, vibration and motion, alcohol can impair a person on the water much faster than on land. It is illegal to operate a watercraft under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Operate at a safe speed.

Another basic navigation rule that can cause problems when ignored. Boats don't have brakes, so always operate at a speed at which you are sure you can stop your boat to avoid a collision.

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For Further Information Contact:
Dennis Evans, Division of Watercraft
(614) 265-6695
-or-
ODNR Media Relations
(614) 265-6886