(WWJ) -- Michigan’s unofficial start to summer is almost upon us -- Memorial Day weekend.
As Michiganders and visitors coming to the Great Lakes State prepare to take to the water all over the state, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is reminding everyone to put safety first.
As this week also marks National Safe Boating Week -- a week devoted to elevating the campaign for responsible boating and encouraging boaters to always wear life jackets while on the water -- the DNR is calling for boaters to be extra cautious.
Lt. Tom Wanless of the DNR is encouraging everyone to be up-to-date on boating laws and regulations and ensure that boats and personal watercrafts -- like jet skis -- are shipshape. That includes the all-important life jackets.
“Taking time now can prevent potential problems later, because accidents can happen at any time and weather can quickly affect water conditions on inland waters and the Great Lakes,” Wanless said.
“Familiarizing yourself and your fellow boaters with valuable safety tips and equipment can mean the difference between a great day on the water and a needlessly tragic outcome.”
DNR data shows there were 181 boating accidents statewide in 2020, including 33 deaths. The U.S. Coast Guard reports that nationwide, drowning is the cause of death in 79% of all boating-related fatalities.
“Riding with an operator who has completed an approved boating safety course and wearing a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket are two ways to reduce the risk of recreational boating accidents and drowning.
Other tips for safe boating -- available on the DNR’s boating webpage -- include having a “float plan,” staying alert, carrying a cell phone or marine radio, and perhaps most importantly, boating sober.
The DNR says the top five contributing factors in boating accidents are operator inattention, improper lookout, operator inexperience, excessive speed and alcohol use.
Anyone born after June 30, 1996 must have a boating safety certificate to operate a boat, while anyone born after Dec. 31, 1978 who plans to operate a personal watercraft is required to have a valid boater education safety certificate. Information on boating safety education courses can be found on the DNR’s website.
The DNR is teaming up with McDonald’s this summer to promote the importance of life jackets. DNR conservation officers will be on the lookout this summer for youth appropriately wearing their life jackets.
Each child or teen spotted properly wearing a life jacket while on an active vessel could receive a coupon for free ice cream or apple slices at participating McDonald’s across the state.
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