Coast Guard Urges Boaters to Be Safe

Will you be spending your Labor Day out on the water?

The Coast Guard is urging boaters to use a bit of extra caution. They'll be out in force making sure boaters follow boating laws.

On Labor Day, Coast Guard law-enforcement crews will be:

• Patrolling
• Conducting safety checks
• Watching for people boating while intoxicated or operating in an unsafe manner.

Boaters should also remember the following safety tips:

• Monitor weather broadcasts and be aware of current storm advisories. You can hear forecasts on a marine radio by tuning into channels 1 through 5 or you can check the National Weather Service website.
• Always wear life jackets
• File a float plan with a friend or family member
• Have a working VHF radio and Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon on board. (Cell phones are not a reliable means of communication during an emergency at sea.)

More boating safety tips from the Coast Guard.