DETROIT — As the summer boating season comes to an unofficial end Labor Day weekend, the Coast Guard urges the boating public to remain vigilant while enjoying the Great Lakes during the offseason.
Between May 27, 2016, and Aug. 31, 2016, Coast Guard Sector Detroit personnel responded to 359 search and rescue cases, and during that time, 18 people died.
In the offseason from Oct. 1, 2015 to May 27, 2016, Coast Guard Sector Detroit recorded 13 boating-related deaths in Sector Detroit's area of responsibility.
"Tragically, these numbers show that boating dangers are not encumbered by the seasons," said Senior Chief Petty Officer Gabriel Settel, Sector Detroit command center supervisor. "Anyone planning to head out onto the water for the holiday weekend or throughout the offseason should plan appropriately and make safety a top priority."
The Coast Guard encourages those recreating on the water to heed the following safety tips:
- When preparing for a trip on the water, check weather forecasts and dress accordingly. Make sure you also check water temperatures as it will likely drop more quickly than air temperatures.
- As always, wear a life jacket. Simply having a life jacket onboard a vessel or watercraft is of little use if a person falls in the water. In the event you fall into the water, it's critical that you remain with your vessel. This makes you easier to locate and maximizes your chance for survival.
- When using personal watercraft, such as jet-skis, kayaks, and paddleboards, wear proper safety equipment. Mark your paddleboards and kayaks with ownership information. This will help us to confirm whether we have a distress situation in the event your equipment is found and quickly verify that you are safe.
- Have a backup plan in the event of engine trouble. Whether you employ a maritime towing company or a set of oars, being prepared for contingencies will dramatically improve your chances for a safe return, even if something goes wrong.
- Ensure you have a functioning VHF radio and a fully charged cell phone so you can communicate if an emergency occurs.
- Enjoy alcoholic beverages responsibly. Michigan and Ohio’s legal drinking age is 21 years old. The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit for recreational vessel operation is 0.08%.
- Have a plan. Let friends and family know where you are going and how long you plan to be out on the water. In the event of an emergency, this information is crucial in providing an efficient and effective response.
- If you or a family member is in distress on the water, contact U.S. Coast Guard Sector Detroit on VHF-FM marine radio channel 16 or at 313-568-9560.