Florida’s beautiful waterways offer endless opportunities for adventure. But before you cast off and head out for a fun day on the water, brush up on your boating safety knowledge!
We celebrated National Safe Boating Week in 2024 from May 18-24, a timely reminder to prioritize safety for a worry-free boating season.
The National Safe Boating Council, a non-profit promoting safe boating experiences, spearheaded this annual campaign.
Their message? Making smart choices leads to a fantastic time on the water!
Peg Phillips, the Council’s Executive Director, emphasizes the importance of being prepared:
We’re committed to teaching boaters that the best boating experience is a safe day on the water. This National Safe Boating Week, prepare for a great boating season by inspecting your boating safety gear and commit to providing comfortable life jackets for all your passengers to wear every time you go boating.
When do boating accidents occur?
Florida boating accident statistics: A glimpse into our maritime landscape. Most accidents occur between 4-6 PM.
Here’s how you can be a responsible boater:
- Education is key! Enroll in a boating safety course. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or a curious novice, classes are designed for all experience levels.
- Gear up! Schedule a free vessel safety check with the US Coast Guard Auxiliary or the US Power Squadrons. They’ll ensure your essential equipment is present, functioning properly, and in good condition.
- Float plan? Check! Before leaving the dock, inform someone onshore about your trip details. Include the names of everyone on board, your boat’s type and registration, your communication equipment, and your planned route.
- Life jackets: Worn, not just stored! They’re a simple yet crucial safety measure. A readily available life jacket can save a life in an emergency.
- Cut the off switch! Engine cut-off switches are mandatory for a reason. If you fall overboard unexpectedly, this device can stop the engine and prevent serious accidents.
- Weather woes? Stay informed! Always check the forecast before you head out and throughout your trip.
- Be alert! Nearly a quarter of boating accidents are caused by inattentive operators. Keep a watchful eye on your surroundings.
- Know your limits! Be familiar with the area you’re navigating, including speed zones, and always maintain safe speeds.
- Boating under the influence? Never! Designate a sober skipper – alcohol impairment is a significant factor in boating fatalities.
- Communication is key! Have multiple waterproof communication devices on board. VHF radios, emergency locator beacons, satellite phones, and cell phones can be lifesavers in an emergency.
Remember: Drowning is the leading cause of death in boating accidents, and most drowning victims weren’t wearing life jackets.
81% of drowning victims from boating accidents weren’t wearing a life jacket.
Make #safeboating a priority, and wear your life jacket!
Catchy slogans for safe boating in Florida
The National Safe Boating Council promotes safe boating practices through education and outreach and provides resources to help you spread the message yourself.
Here are some of their attention-grabbing slogans that you can use to remind yourself and others about the importance of safe boating:
75% of boating deaths are due to drowning.
This hard-hitting slogan emphasizes the leading cause of death in boating accidents and the importance of wearing a life jacket.
Be ready for the unexpected. Always wear your life jacket.
This slogan highlights the importance of preparation and life jackets as a critical safety measure.
2/3 of drowning victims are good swimmers.
A surprising statistic reinforces that even strong swimmers can benefit from wearing a life jacket.
Propeller strikes are preventable.
This slogan raises awareness about another boating hazard and how to avoid it.
Carbon monoxide: odorless + colorless + tasteless + deadly.
Boaters should be aware of this silent killer and take steps to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning on board.
Know the risk of electric shock drowning.
This slogan educates boaters about a less-known danger and how to stay safe.
Photo credit: National Safe Boating Council
Even the most cautious boater can get into an unexpected situation.
If you are involved in a boating accident, prioritize the safety of everyone on board.
Remember, Florida law requires boaters to help those in need and report the incident to the proper authorities after an accident.
Report the accident to one of the following agencies:
- Division of Law Enforcement, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission: 1-888-404-3922 or *FWC from your mobile phone.
- Local county sheriff’s department where the accident occurred.
- Police department of the municipality where the accident occurred.
Failure to report the accident or render help are both criminal offenses.
When someone else’s negligence causes that accident, talk to our local Miami boating accident attorney, Mike Redondo. Our goal is to fight for maximum compensation for your recovery.
Keep in mind that in Florida, the general timeframe for filing most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the incident.
In the unfortunate event of a fatal boating or fishing accident, surviving family members may have the right to file a lawsuit against the responsible party. Our compassionate wrongful death attorney is here to provide the support and legal guidance you need during this difficult time.
Please fill out the form below or call to schedule your free consultation.
