NEW YORK — Routine Coast Guard safety boardings in Long Island Sound and the greater New York area have shown an increase in the number of boats operating without proper safety equipment.
With the summer boating season in full swing, the Coast Guard has observed an uptick in vessel traffic in Long Island Sound and off the coast of New York.
The Coast Guard would like to remind all boaters to ensure they have all the required safety equipment onboard and that it is in good working condition before getting underway.
Coast Guard units have noted that the two most frequently forgotten safety items are also the most important: life jackets and fire extinguishers.
“The vast majority of recreational boats operating in our area are constructed with a fiberglass resin which is highly flammable,” said Capt. Andrew Tucci, commander Coast Guard Sector Long Island Sound. “Having a fully charged and non-expired fire extinguisher onboard can better prepare mariners for a hazardous situation that can occur on the water.”
Additionally, according to a recent Coast Guard study, 84% of all drowning victims were not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident.
“Not only are having life jackets onboard the law, wearing them is proven to save lives,” said Tucci. “No one expects to fall overboard, but having a life jacket on is good practice.”
Mariners interested in increasing their boating readiness and safety skills can contact their local Coast Guard Auxiliary flotilla using the link below for a comprehensive safety inspection, free of charge.
Coast Guard Auxilary Vessel Safety Checks - http://cgaux.org/vsc/