FWC reminds everyone to boat safely this summer

            Memorial Day weekend is the kickoff of Florida’s most active boating season and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission wants all boaters to remember to boat safely.

Each year, FWC officers rescue around 1,000 people, many of them on the water.

However, not everyone is so lucky. Ten people have already lost their lives this year due to boating accidents in Florida.

Last year there were 55 boating related deaths.

Statistics show that more than 67 percent of those deaths were attributed to drowning, and probably could have been avoided if the boater were simply wearing a life jacket.

A few other safety precautions that can save your life include remaining alert and sober while operating a boat, and having an engine shut-off switch at all times .

An engine shut-off switch is a safety lanyard that attaches from the boat operator to the ignition.

If it is disconnected, the engine will shut down, potentially preventing a boater who has fallen overboard from being injured by the moving propeller of a runaway boat.

More boating safety information can be found by visiting MyFWC.com/Boating

To report people who are operating boats dangerously, call 888-404-FWCC or text Tip@MyFWC.com.

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