Norwalk Police Kick Off National Safe Boating Week

NORWALK, CT — National Safe Boating Week will take place May 20-26, and the Norwalk Police Department's Marine Unit would like to remind boaters of several tips before the season starts to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable boating season.

In a news release, police provided the following tips for residents to keep in mind:

• Wear a life vest and have them readily accessible with enough for everyone on board.
• Do not exceed the stated capacity of you boat.
• Have a throwable floatation device such as a life vest.
• Have at least one fire extinguisher on board, more are required by the Coast Guard for larger vessels.
• Clearly display the registration numbers, if it is a canoe or kayak place a sticker with your name and phone number should it break loose and float away. These stickers can be picked up from the Marine Unit.
• Flares and sound signal devices are required.
• Have a handheld VHF radio or one installed on the boat.
• 911 is the fastest way to summon emergency assistance, this should be followed up with a VHF radio call on channel 16.
• Alcohol and boating do not mix, the same DUI rules apply for boating.
• Be aware of channel closures and barges for the upcoming Walk Bridge Project.
• A required list of items for the length of you boat can be found on the USCG website.

The Marine Unit is also holding a take back program for expired boating flares, which can be turned into the Norwalk Marine Unit, located at 100 Water Street, from May 20-31 at no cost.