Use Caution on Water This Weekend

The July 4th holiday weekend is the highest boating traffic weekend of the summer in America and the National Safe Boating Council is taking the opportunity to urge boaters to make sure they have the right life jacket before they hit the water.

So far this year in Georgia, the Department of Natural Resources said that 42 boating incidents have resulted in 18 injuries and 20 boating incident-related fatalities. Additionally, the DNR says 24 people have drowned on public waters.

National Safe Boating Council Executive Director Rachel Johnson said the simplest thing to do to be safe is to wear a lifejacket each and every time you are out on the water.

“We hear the excuses all the time, ‘I’m a great swimmer,’ ‘It’s just too hot on the water,’ ‘I have been boating my whole life and I have never had an accident’,” said Johnson. “These are all reasons that, unfortunately, people choose not to wear a life jacket and we lose too many out on the water. Those excuses, while people really believe that about themselves, they never can predict an accident so wearing that lifejacket each and every time is really just that added security should something happen.”

Johnson said that the best way to make sure you always wear a lifejacket is to choose one that you actually want to wear.

“Make sure you get one that is right for your boating activity,” said Johnson. “If you are paddling or going whitewater rafting, choose a comfortable, inherently foam-filled one. If you are just cruising on a pontoon boat, an inflatable life jacket is a comfortable, lightweight, really great option for you. Make sure you are choosing one that you will want to wear all day long.”

She said it is also necessary to make sure the lifejacket stays in good condition.

“Keep it out of direct sunlight if you are not using it,” said Johnson. “Store it in a cool, dry place. If it ever is torn or just starts looking moldy or run down, it is time to buy a new lifejacket and invest in one that is going to be great for a day out on the water.”

Also, Johnson said it is important to read the label on the inside of the lifejacket and always choose the right size life jacket.

Wearing a lifejacket is not the only thing officials have urged to stay safe on the water.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources also said boaters need to obey navigation rules and the other rules of the water, and do not drink and boat.