LAKE COUNTY — The California Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW) reminds boaters to use caution on the water this Fourth of July holiday.
DBW”s boating incident data shows that more boating crashes occur during this holiday than any others during the summer boating season.
“The need for boaters to become familiar with the rules of the road is critical in ensuring a safe boating experience,” Lucia Becerra, DBW”s acting director, said. “Rules, such as steering to the right when approaching another vessel head on, are important to know, especially in crowded waterways.”
The following tips can greatly decrease the chances of boaters being involved in boating incidents:
Avoid alcohol. Everyone who drinks alcohol on board is at-risk. Passengers can easily fall overboard, swim near the propeller or cause the vessel to capsize.
Operate boats at a reasonable speed. Boats do not have brakes. The stopping distance in emergencies can be critical.
Properly use waterski flags when skiers, wakeboarders or tubers are down. Improper use of flags can be dangerous not only to the person in the water, but to the passing boat where its propeller can become entangled in the tow rope, causing a potentially deadly incident.
For more safety tips or to view California”s boating laws, visit www.BoatResponsibly.com.
