News Releases

Enjoy the warm weather by boating safely

News Release

Friday, March 26, 2010

Media contact: Capt. Carol Keyser, 850-488-5600

With winter's chill finally in retreat, cabin fever overtakes many Floridians and visitors from Key West to Pensacola. Many are eager to get outside, and boaters are making plans to take their vessels out for a weekend adventure.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) urges boaters not to let cabin fever make them too hasty or risk ruining their day on the water.

"Enjoy the day by remembering a few safety precautions, such as remaining alert while operating a boat and wearing your life jacket," said Capt. Carol Keyser of the FWC's Boating and Waterways Section. "Check your boating safety equipment before you leave the dock, so you are ready for any problems which may arise on the water."

According to the FWC, inattentiveness of the operator usually causes boating accidents, and statistics show that more than half the boating-related deaths reported last year were attributed to drowning and may have been avoided had the victims been wearing life jackets.

"The combination of paying better attention, abiding by the navigation rules and wearing life jackets all the time while on the water could result in fewer injuries and deaths each year," Keyser said.

The FWC encourages Floridians to get outside and enjoy the warmer weather on the water, but cautions, "Do so safely."