Beginners and seasoned boaters alike need to brush up on the latest info regarding our waters. The vast majority of all boats on the water are brought there on trailers, according to Croft, meaning launch ramps can become patience-trying bottlenecks if boaters aren’t considerate of others. Topics include: Vessel … Additionally, they must have in their possession a boating education ID card and a photo identification card before operating a vessel with a motor of ten horsepower or more in Florida. In fact, 70% of boating accidents are attributed to an operator error, so we can reduce this amount by taking official classes and learning the rules, laws, and tips that allow us to be safe on the water. More than 30 states accept online boating safety courses, including free courses offered by the BoatUS Foundation. You can’t always predict an emergency, so be prepared for any situation. Use this handbook to familiarize yourself with steps to make all your boating outings safe and enjoyable. Note: This information is accurate as of September 2017 and is subject to change in May of each year. Members Sign In. Your boat safety kit should be kept on board no matter the size of your boat. You’ll want to get out of the water as quickly and efficiently as possible to keep others from waiting. Navigating Florida's shallow waters can be a challenge for even the most experienced boater. Wear life jackets. With millions of people in Florida partaking in activities on the water this weekend, we want to remind you of a few boating safety tips that will ensure a fun and safe … Unfortunately, boat accidents continue to climb in Florida, leaving far too many people dead or seriously injured. Having a checklist makes the process much, much easier. It's fun and relaxing but with boating comes a certain amount of responsibility and safety considerations as well. Anyone born after 1/1/1988 who operates a motorboat with 10 or more horsepower must complete an approved boating safety course and carry the Boating Safety Education ID Card issued by the Florida Wildlife Commission. Whether you are a Florida native or visiting for the first time, here are some safety tips from our Florida boating accident lawyer we think everyone could use. Educating guests begins even before you get in the water. Get in and out efficiently. Some Florida boating safety tips include: Boat Safety Check having a member of the Coast Guard perform a safety check will help you navigate easily during bad situations. In Florida, anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, who operates a vessel powered by 10 horsepower or more must pass an approved boater safety course and have in his/her possession photographic identification and a boater safety identification card issued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Bring the proper life jackets. The “From the moment you pull into the parking lot, you should be in the mode of doing this quickly, efficiently and in the minimal amount of time that is possible,” Croft says. “The best boat to enjoy in Florida is someone else’s boat.” The cost of ownership and upkeep for a boat is pricey, which is why Floridians and visitors alike enjoy the peace of mind that comes with renting a boat. Unfortunately, boat accidents continue to climb in Florida, leaving far too many people dead or seriously injured. While you're boating, you're likely to run … This online course will teach you boating safety … Here, we have put together a safety checklist based on Florida law. Questions? Tips to Avoid Boating Accidents in Jacksonville, Florida. Read on to get the inside scoop on beach safety tips and how to keep your beach days happy. I got together with the U.S. Coast Guard to discuss boating safety and tips to help keep you safe on the water. The vast majority of all boats on the water are … Florida visitors must comply with the boating safety education requirements. Required fields are marked *. The Boating Capital of the World. Water Safety Tips. Don’t speed. “Safety is mandatory,” says Scott Croft, vice president of public affairs for the Boat Owners Association of the United States. As the boating season begins, millions of Americans will be participating in recreational boating. Learn more » Get your Pleasure Craft Operator Card The Naples School of Boating is the premier boating school in Southwest Florida, serving Naples, Fort Myers and Marco Island. 5. “When someone waves to me, I know they know where I am and what my course is,” Croft says. Florida visitors must comply with the boating safety education requirements. Whether you’re dropping anchor for a break or the evening, be aware of your distance from other boaters. • Get your boat checked for safety… Whether you own a boat or rent one, safe boating is one subject that should be at the top of every boater’s radar when visiting Florida In addition to the obvious safety rules of wearing life jackets, avoiding alcohol and having flares and other mandatory boating items, there are a few basic boating tips for boaters to stay safe in the water when visiting Florida. Download the Boating Safety Guide and Equipment and Departure Checklists to help you know what safety equipment is required on a boat, as well as preventative measures the U.S. Coast Guard recommends to enjoy a safe boating … Members Sign In. I got together with the U.S. Coast Guard to discuss boating safety and tips to help keep you safe on the water. Depending on the length of the anchor line, boats can shift far from where they dropped anchor. It sounds obvious, but dehydration and … Knowing boating etiquette isn’t the only thing you need to know to avoid a boating accident. Boating is an exciting activity, but it can also become dangerous, so preparation and safety measures are essential. If you were born on or after January 1, 1988, you are required by law to have the Florida Boating Safety … Boating safety is something that every boater should be aware of. However, whenever there is more traffic, there is also the potential for disasters to happen. Stay safe by being prepared and using the appropriate equipment, whether enjoying a ride on a motorized … Boating and Water Safety. Laws in regards to boat safety equipment requirements vary depending on the state you’re boating in and the size of boat you’re operating. In conjunction with the class, you can arrange to have your vessel receive a complimentary Vessel Safety Check through the US Coast Guard Auxiliary and upon passing, receive a 2020 Vessel Safety Check sticker. One of the leading causes of boating accidents and fatalities both in Florida and nationwide is passenger inattentiveness. Always check local weather conditions before departure. There's an easy way to get the most out of your day out on the boat: Your email address will not be published. There are few places more beautiful to enjoy nature's beauty and wildlife than on the waterways of Florida. Teach children not to run around on the boat, to stay seated while the boat is underway and to keep their hands and feet inside the vessel at all times. Just like studying to get your driver’s license, it is very important to have the boating … Best of all, these safety … Boating safety is extremely important! Posted on 10/1/2020 12:00 AM By Florida Peninsula Insurance Company. If you intend to enjoy some time this summer on the water, remember the following safety tips. Make sure your passengers are familiar with the boat including where things are, where to stand, how to move around safely and what to do if problems arise. In Florida,children under the age of 6 must wear a properly fitted life jacket, approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, when onboard any vessel. Why Cape Coral Needs to Be Your Summer Destination, This Week in Miami: The Bacardi Cup & Sailing Week, Boatsetter Teams up With Owners to Help Protect & Preserve Our Waterways, How Boating Getaways Can Be the Perfect Socially Distanced Activity, Top Adventures to Try While Vacationing in Oahu, Hawaii. With more than 11 million recreational vessels registered in the U.S., millions of Americans are enjoying time on and in the water.. Just be sure safety is foremost in your mind. Proper boating safety means being prepared for any possibility on the water. It's hot outside, the sun's shining and South Florida families are celebrating the kick off of summer (Florida-style) by feeding their passion for boating and all things related to being out on the water. Below are some valuable boating safety tips. Boating Safety Tips From the Broward County Sheriff 3 • Complete a boating education course. Here are six unwritten rules to keep in mind when boating: It’s assumed that if you’re captaining a boat, you know the safety rules – how to navigate, pass, anchor and dock safely. One of the primary factors contributing to vessel accidents is operator inexperience. In Florida,children under the age … Florida residents required to complete a boating safety course may do so in a classroom setting or online. More than 30 states accept online boating safety courses, including free courses offered by the BoatUS Foundation. 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