Coast Guard reminds boaters to practice safety over holiday weekend

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - With thousands of boaters on the water celebrating the nation's birthday, the Coast Guard would like to stress to the boating public that waterways on the west coast of Florida will be even more dangerous and harder to navigate than normal.

The Coast Guard encourages boaters to enjoy their weekend on the water but to do so safely. Coast Guard crews, including many from the Coast Guard Auxiliary, will be patrolling the area, conducting safety checks both on the water and at marinas. Crews will be on a close lookout for boaters who are intoxicated or operating their vessel in an unsafe manner.

Weather conditions can change rapidly. The National Weather Service broadcasts marine weather forecasts regularly. The forecast can be heard by tuning into channels one through five on VHF marine radios or by checking the NWS website at http://www.nws.noaa.gov/

In addition, boaters are reminded of the dangers of drinking and boating. Exposure to outdoor elements such as the sun, wind and water have a dramatic effect on the body. Nearly 30 percent of all recreational boating fatalities can be attributed to alcohol.

Intoxicated boaters can face both federal and state charges with penalties of up to one year in prison and up to $100,000 in fines.

The Coast Guard reminds boaters not to use emergency flares as celebratory fireworks. Flares should only be used in times of distress. Boaters are also reminded to always wear their life jackets, file a float plan with a friend or family member, have a working VHF radio and EPIRB on board. Finally, remain vigilant and observe safety and security zones while on the water this Independence Day weekend.

Additional information on safe and secure boating practices can be found at the Coast Guard's Office of Boating Safety page at http://www.uscgboating.org/ or by calling (800) 368-5647.

###

Saving Lives and Guarding the Coast Since 1790.
The United States Coast Guard -- Proud History. Powerful Future.