Emergency responders are urging Los Angeles boaters to prioritize safety on the water.
KNX News’ Nataly Tavidian spoke to Patrick Butler, Fire Chief and Harbor Master at Redondo Beach, about what to know before heading out to the water. He said operating boats at night requires a lot of extra precaution.
“Nighttime makes things a little bit tougher on anybody and boating and aviation are very similar,” Butler said.
He added that it’s important to ensure navigation and lights are working properly, especially if it’s the first trip of the season. Butler also recommended that people check the forecast and plan their route before heading out on the water.
“Let someone at home or onshore, let them know, like, ‘Hey, we're gonna go out at night. This is where we plan to go. This is when we plan to come back,’” he said.
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People driving private pleasure boats don’t need any special licenses; however, the California Division of Boating and Waterways has an online course people can take to get a boating certificate, which Butler recommends to everybody.
The course teaches the rules of navigation, boater safety, and what people need to know about their equipment. It also goes over how boating under the influence is just as hazardous as driving under the influence. It’s also subject to the same fines and penalties.
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