Don't Rock the Boat! - Maine Boating Safety
Although Maine has a low incidence of boating mishaps, a fatal boating accident on Long Lake last summer made us all stop in our wakes to take a second look at the rules and regulations that protect our water playgrounds.
While it's easy to wonder if this tragedy could have been avoided if the proper safety precautions were taken, it's more important to learn from past mistakes to ensure that history does not repeat itself.
At the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein we see several victims of summer boating accidents each year. And we want to help educate boaters on the rules of the waterways, so we can all have a safe and fun summer on the water and in the sun.
A few must know rules and safety tips that all boaters should take with them in the water include:
- Maine boats must carry a current registration sticker from the state.
- Every boat should have one life jacket for each passenger on board.
- Carry an emergency kit and a cell phone, and be sure to tell someone where you are headed and when you expect to return.
- Slow down when near other boats, swimmers, and those enjoying the water. Your consideration will allow others to have fun.
- Keep drinking to a minimum. Most boat accidents are alcohol-related.
- Educate yourself on basic water safety and boating rules. The U.S. Coast Guard strongly recommends that every boat owner take an official boater education course (www.uscgboating.org).
When it comes to boating safety, the age old adage rings true: it's all fun and games until someone gets hurt. If boaters keep these easy-to-follow rules and safety tips in mind, their safety, along with the safety of all others enjoying their time on Maine's waterways, will be greatly improved. And at that the end of the day, knowing that you had a safe and relaxing day on the lake or ocean is fun in itself.
Enjoy the summer and enjoy the water. And remember, "Don't Rock The Boat!"
