MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
A Division Of The
Department of Public Safety
Public Information and Education Division - PO Box 568 - Jefferson City, MO 65102
NEWS RELEASE

For further information please contact: Capt. John J. Hotz
Q512015-2 (573) 526-6115

May 1, 2015
EMPHASIS: May 16-22 Is National Safe Boating Week

Colonel J. Bret Johnson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, would like to make the public aware of National Safe Boating Week, which takes place May 16-22, 2015. It’s getting to be the time of year when water enthusiasts will converge on Missouri’s many beautiful waterways. Safety should always be included in those plans to insure a wonderful day on the water is not interrupted by an unfortunate accident, injury, or something worse.

The National Safe Boating Week occurs just prior to Memorial Day weekend, which many people consider the kickoff to the boating season. A thorough inspection of your boat is recommended prior to taking it out on the water. Weather, time, and other elements may affect the readiness of your boat. The Patrol’s marine operations troopers are available to inspect the required equipment on your boat and, at your request, to make sure you’re in compliance with state law.

Knowing the laws on the water as well as being aware of the environment in which you will be boating may keep you from becoming a statistic. In 2014, there were 179 boating accidents reported in Missouri, with 101 injuries, and 15 fatalities. Personal flotation devices for everyone on board is a must! Children under seven years old are required to wear a personal flotation device in a boat, but you are never too old to wear a life jacket! The majority of Missouri drownings on public waterways involve adults. Reducing your speed in unfamiliar areas and being aware of unusual water conditions respective to the size and type of boat you operate are just a couple of environmental considerations. Designating a sober boat operator is always a priority.

“The concerns we all associate with an intoxicated driver, whether in a vehicle or a boat, are compounded by other environmental factors involved with boating. The wave action, extended exposure to the sun, and the wind all cause what is known as boater fatigue. When alcohol is combined with boater fatigue, reaction time and the overall thought process are slowed substantially.” said Colonel Johnson. “We want Missourians and our visitors to enjoy our beautiful waterways, but it’s imperative to have a sober operator.”

Life jackets are now lighter, less obtrusive, and more comfortable than ever before. The new inflatable life jackets allow mobility and flexibility for activities like boating, fishing, or paddling, and are much cooler in the warmer weather. There are many different varieties of inflatable jackets ranging from those that inflate instantly when submerged in the water to those that are manually inflated. All are designed to be more comfortable than the traditional life jacket. Life jackets save lives!

Although not required by law, children playing along the shoreline or on a dock should wear a life jacket. A drowning can occur quickly, with little or no sign the victim is struggling.

Other safe boating tips to be aware of include:
1) Be a defensive boat operator ... creating distance from other boats equals more reaction time.
2) Adjust your speed for the conditions ... if visibility is poor, or the water is rough, slow down!
3) Turn off the boat while entering/exiting the water.
4) If you could still be out on the water after dark, check your navigation lights before you leave the dock or ramp.
5) Each boat operator is responsible for doing whatever they can to avoid an accident. Don’t expect other boats to move out of your way.
6) Be courteous with your wake.

“Being on the water creates an added danger that must be respected. Our ultimate goal is for everyone to make it home safely at the end of the day.” said Colonel Johnson.

Boaters are reminded to contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol by dialing *55 on a cellular phone if they need assistance or observe another boater operating a vessel in an unsafe manner.

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