National Safe Boating Week, May 21 – 27, 2016, kicks-off the yearlong North American Safe Boating Campaign which promotes safe, responsible boating and encourages recreational boaters to wear a life jacket at all times when operating on the water.
Each year, around 500 people drown in recreational boating accidents. By encouraging people to “Wear It”, the theme of National Safe Boating Week, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCGA) hopes to reduce this number. Examples of boating safety tips include:
- Wear a life jacket every time you are on the water.
- Make sure your life jackets are US Coast Guard-approved.
- Make sure your life jacket is the right size.
- Do not operate a vessel while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- Pay attention to your surroundings and boat responsibly.
For more information, visit the North American Safe Boating campaign website or the National Safe Boating Council website. Also review the Handbook of Wisconsin Boating Laws and Responsibilities.
La Crosse PD Newsroom 