The
following are important boater safety reminders for safe and fun boating this 4th
of July. These safety tips will help keep you safe as well as make your day more
pleasant if approached by law enforcement. Safety is always a priority!
- Sober Captain and Sober Youth. Designate a captain to operate your boat. The blood alcohol limit for boating is 0.08 percent, the same as the limit for driving an automobile. A new state law makes the penalties for BUI as severe as for operating an automobile.
Drinking alcohol under 21 years of age or providing alcohol to underage people is also illegal. For everyone else, practice moderation. The hot temperatures amplifies the effects of alcohol. The use of alcohol is involved in about a third of all recreational boating fatalities according to the US Coast Guard. More information about effects of alcohol at https://www.uscgboating.org/recreational-boaters/boating-under-the-influence.php
- PFDs. Wear a life jacket on the boat or even near the water. Make
sure they are U.S. Coast Guard approved and fit properly. Youth under 10 years
of age must wear PFDs.
- Throwables. Don’t forget a throwable floatation device. An easily
accessible Type IV throwable is required on watercraft 16 feet or longer in
length (except canoes/kayaks).
- Riding the
Gunwales or Decking. It is unsafe and illegal to ride on
the gunwales or decking while underway.
- Carbon Monoxide. Marine grade alarms are required for specified watercraft.
- Fire
Extinguishers. Fire extinguishers are required on
board. However, be prepared to jump ship since a fire can get out of control
quickly.
- Boat
Equipment. Make sure your boat is in good
condition and has all the required safety equipment. Make sure you are ready
for an emergency situation or to help others if needed.
- Litter. Carry off the lake what you bring in. Help keep Lake
Minnetonka clean and litter free.
- AIS. Prevent the spread of AIS by making sure your
watercraft is clean before entering Lake Minnetonka and implement the clean,
drain, dry and dispose techniques upon leaving the lake.
- Boater Preparation. Before going boating, let someone know your
itinerary. Know the rules and keep a safe distance from kayaks, canoes, and
other watercraft.
- Weather. Be prepared for the weather. Stay off or leave the lake
when there is lightning or damaging winds. In hot weather, be sure to stay
hydrated and implement appropriate sun protection measures.
It is a busy day
on the lake and patience with other lake users is often necessary. In case of
emergencies, call 911. Extra law enforcement and emergency responders will be
on the lake to help make the celebration safe and enjoyable for everyone!
Posted on: July 2nd, 2019