National Safe Boating Week marks the official kickoff of the summer boating season, serving as an annual reminder for boaters to prioritize safety while enjoying Florida’s beautiful waterways.
As “The Boating Capital of the World,” Florida leads the nation with over 1 million registered vessels, making boating safety a critical concern.
“Florida waterways are a destination for boating activities by residents and visitors, and those activities increase as we enter the summer months. Unfortunately, so do the accidents,” said Maj. Bill Holcomb, FWC Boating and Waterways Section Leader. “FWC officers respond to far too many tragic boating accidents that could have been prevented by following a few simple boating safety guidelines.”
In 2023, there were 659 reportable boating accidents in Florida, with nearly 30% caused by collisions with fixed objects. The primary causes of these accidents were improper lookout and operator inexperience.
To reduce the number of boating accidents, the FWC encourages boaters to maintain 360-degree awareness at all times and take a boater safety course.
Boating Safety Course
The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary offers a Boating Safety Course at American Legion Post 189 in Sebastian. It’s $25 per person, but teens are FREE. The course teaches boaters how to operate their vessels safely and navigate the waterways. Individuals who successfully complete the class and pass the exam are awarded certificates and will receive a Florida State Boater’s ID card.
For more information about the boating safety class, contact Tom McCarty at 401-523-2925 or email him at Tgm.uscgaux@gmail.com.
In 2023, over 80% of operators involved in fatal boating accidents had no formal boater education.
“The facts are clear,” said Holcomb. “An educated boater is a safer boater, and everyone can benefit from taking a boating safety course. It makes for a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone on board.”
The FWC also emphasizes the importance of wearing a comfortable U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times while on the water. In 2023, approximately 50% of boating deaths were due to drowning, often because boaters were not wearing life jackets. Unexpected events can cause boaters to end up in the water, and there is rarely time to put on a life jacket after the fact.
Boaters should also be aware of the dangers of impaired boating. Alcohol and drugs can impair judgment, reaction time, and overall ability to operate a boat safely.
“Boating while impaired by alcohol or drugs is not only dangerous but illegal,” said Holcomb. “FWC officers are always on the lookout for impaired operators, and these operators will face arrest if found to be operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.”
To report people operating boats dangerously, call 888-404-FWCC or text 847411 (Tip411) with keyword “FWC” and information about the violation.
Stay safe and enjoy Florida’s waterways responsibly during National Safe Boating Week and throughout the summer season.