Summer is around the corner and recreational boaters are out on the lakes, rivers, and coastlines in our service areas. You might even have a 
fun weekend of boating planned with friends and family. May 16-22 is National Safe Boating week and serves as an important reminder that although boating can be dangerous most injuries and fatalities are easily prevented.
This is our Everyday EMS Tips Top 5 Boating Safety List for National Boat Safety Week:
- Understand that boating hazards are different when the water is cold, water levels are above or below normal, or high winds are present.
- Alcohol and boat operation never mix. If you are driving, sailing, or paddling a boat sobriety is just as important on the water as it is on the road.
- Make sure to have at least one personal flotation device (PFD) for each passenger. Children and non-swimmers should always wear a properly fitted and secured PFD. For all others a PFD needs to be easily accessible in case conditions change suddenly.
- Wear a PFD while operating a small boat, during inclement weather, or anytime conditions exceed your ability to swim to safety if your boat were to capsize.
- Know the weather forecast before you set out and monitor the weather closely while boating. If severe weather threatens small boat operators should return to shore immediately.
For more information on safe boating visit the WI DNR website.
