Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Here comes Memorial Day weekend and here come the boats.
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While many die-hard boaters have been at it for weeks already, Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start to the boating season in Buffalo and Western New York, and the waterways are expected to be busy with boating traffic.
The advice from Erie County Sheriff's Marine Division Deputy Mike Okal is straightforward and simple. "Use caution. Use common sense. Be courteous to other boaters."
Okal and his partner, Seargent Edward Krypel both agree that following that simple advice and checking over your boat before going out can help avoid potential catastrophe on the water.
Boating safety courses are required for all operators of personal watercraft, such as jet skis, says Krypel. For most boats, however, the rule for course requirement is a bit different. "This year, if you were born January 1st of 1983 or after, you are required to have a safe boating course for operating a vessel." That requirement will be for all boaters beginning in 2025.
When it comes to life jackets, there needs to be one available for everyone onboard. And for kids, it's a requirement in most cases, says Krypel. "If they’re 12 and under they have to have a life jacket on all the time unless they’re inside an enclosed cabin."
Like driving a vehicle, alcohol and boating don't mix and both Krypel and Okal agree abuse of alcohol leads to numerous problems and violations on the water. "It’s the same limit as driving a car as it is for driving a boat. It’s .08, says Krypel. "You can consume alcohol on your boat as you operate it, you just have to make sure you stay under the 08 limit."
Okal suggests making sure you have flares that aren't expired onboard, an anchor, current registration numbers displayed and operating running lights. "Definitely make sure you’re lights work … that’s one of the major violations we see."
There are speed restrictions to be aware of, especially in channels and near the shoreline, says Okal. "If you go over 5 mph within 100 feet of shoreline, your’re probably going to get stopped by one of the police agencies out on the water."
Kayaks are considered boats as well and there are requirements for those, as well as larger watercraft. "It’s mandated that they have a lifejacket with them," says Krypel. "They don’t necessarily have to wear it, they just have to have one with them. They have to have a whistle and if they’re going to be out past sunset, they have to have a light that’s readily available."
For all boaters, both Okal and Krypel suggest having a gps device onboard and a fully charged cell phone.