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, especially as many take their vessels out for the first time this year. She says boaters should also check the weather forecast and make sure everyone onboard is wearing the correct type and fit of life jacket.

“Take a look at them and spec them for the season, make sure they still fit everybody on board, and make sure you wear them,” Spry says. “While state law requires everyone under the age of 13 to wear a lifejacket, and adults or people 13 and over have to have them close at hand, I think wearing them before you even get on the water is the best for any age.”

Spry says operators can develop “boater’s hypnosis” – a condition in response to sun, wind, noise, vibration and motion, which causes fatigue and slows reaction time, and combining this condition with alcohol or drugs greatly reduces coordination, judgment and reaction time which could lead to deadly consequences.