The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is teaming up with the National Safe Boating Council and other safety advocates across the country to promote safe and responsible boating during National Safe Boating Week.
Park Ranger Tracy Spry says before casting off for a day on the water, boaters should take appropriate precautions. File a float plan with a friend or family, get a vessel safety check and take a boating safety course. Boaters should also check the weather forecast and make sure everyone onboard is wearing the correct type and fit of life jacket.
Boaters can develop “boater’s hypnosis” – a condition in response to sun, wind, noise, vibration and motion, which causes fatigue and slows your reaction time. Combining this condition with alcohol or drugs greatly reduces coordination, judgment and reaction time which could lead to deadly consequences.