Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, stresses the importance of safe boating and makes the public aware of National Safe Boating Week- May 21-27.
A news release says National Safe Boating Week is purposefully scheduled just prior to Memorial Day weekend, which many people consider the kickoff to the boating season.
Boaters are encouraged to make time for a thorough inspection of their boat prior to taking it out on the water. Weather, time and other elements may affect the readiness of your boat.
At your request, the Patrol’s marine operations troopers are available to inspect the required equipment on your boat to make sure you’re in compliance with state law.
To help facilitate these inspections, marine operations troopers will be at several locations on Saturday, May 21 (unless otherwise noted):
TROOP A
Truman Lake – 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Shawnee Bend Boat Ramp in Warsaw.
Smithville Lake – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Camp Branch Marina Boat Ramp at 17201 Paradesian Street in Smithville.
Longview Lake Marina – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 9898 Longview Road in Kansas City.
Additional information on equipment inspection stations may be obtained from your local troop headquarters.
In addition to an inspection, boaters should familiarize themselves with Missouri laws regarding boat operation and traditional navigational rules. Missouri law requires everyone born after January 1, 1984, who operates a vessel on Missouri lakes to possess an approved boating safety identification card. This includes those operating a personal watercraft. When boaters understand and obey the law, and vessels are in good operating order, everyone’s experience becomes safer.
A life jacket for everyone on board is a must. Children under seven years old are required to wear a personal flotation device while in a boat, but you are never too old to wear a life jacket. Although not required by law, children playing along the shoreline or on a dock are encouraged to wear a life jacket. A drowning can occur quickly, with little or no sign the victim is struggling.
It is important for each boat operator to know the capabilities of their boat. Reducing your speed in unfamiliar areas and being aware of unusual water conditions respective to the size and type of boat you operate are just a couple of environmental considerations.
Extended time in the sun and the constant motion of the water affects every vessel operator. It’s important to recognize the dangers of boater fatigue. Stay alert while enjoying Missouri’s lakes and rivers. Additionally, if you combine alcohol with boater fatigue, your reaction time and thought process will be much slower. You are urged to designate a sober captain if you choose to consume alcohol.
Additional safe boating tips are:
1) Be a defensive boat operator … creating distance from other boats gives you more reaction time.
2) Adjust your speed for the conditions … if visibility is poor or the water is rough, slow down.
3) Turn off the boat while passengers are entering/exiting the water.
4) If you will be out on the water after dark, check your navigation lights before you leave the dock or ramp.
5) Each boat operator is responsible for doing whatever they can to avoid a crash. Don’t expect other boats to move out of your way.
6) Be courteous with your wake.