BE ALERT: U.S. Coast Guard Reminds Boaters to Stay Safe During Fourth of July Holiday

By  //  July 3, 2019

Intoxicated boaters can face both federal and state charges, penalties of up to one year in prison

The Fourth of July is traditionally a time of increased boating traffic in waterways due to the myriad of fireworks displays. In past years, a combination of this increased traffic and vessels traveling at excessive speeds has resulted in deaths and serious injuries. (Coast Guard image)

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – The Fourth of July is traditionally a time of increased boating traffic in waterways due to the myriad of fireworks displays. In past years, a combination of this increased traffic and vessels traveling at excessive speeds has resulted in deaths and serious injuries.

This Coast Guard is asking all vessels in the area to take extra caution and heed all existing slow speed or no wake areas due to increased vessel traffic.

“We want everyone to have a great Fourth of July,” said Lt. Brian Doyle, command duty officer at Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville. “But we don’t want a great day to turn into something tragic. File a float plan or tell family and friends where you’re going, make sure you have all of your safety equipment, have a designated boater and wear your life jackets.”

The public is reminded to remain aware of their surroundings, watch the weather, and understand the hazards of boating under the influence of alcohol while on the water this weekend.

Weather conditions can change instantaneously, especially during the summer months. The National Weather Service broadcasts marine weather forecasts regularly. The forecast can be heard by tuning into channels one through five on VHF-FM marine radios or by checking the NWS website at www.nws.noaa.gov.

Boaters are also reminded of the dangers of boating under the influence. In addition to decreasing the operator’s ability to make sound judgments, the consumption of alcohol also negatively affects the ability of passengers to respond in the case of an emergency on the water.

Boaters are also reminded of the dangers of boating under the influence. In addition to decreasing the operator’s ability to make sound judgments, the consumption of alcohol also negatively affects the ability of passengers to respond in the case of an emergency on the water. (FWC image)

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, and carry a working VHF-FM radio and Electronic Position Indicating Radio Beacon.

WATCH LIVE: Port Canaveral’s Fifth Annual Fireworks Before the Fireworks Set TonightRelated Story:
WATCH LIVE: Port Canaveral’s Fifth Annual Fireworks Before the Fireworks Set Tonight

CLICK HERE FOR BREVARD COUNTY NEWS