Be Safe, Not Sorry

Summer is the perfect time for enjoying the water - boating, fishing or skiing - and by following a few basic safety procedures, you can keep a pleasant outing from turning into a disaster.

Learn the Rules

With nearly 400,000 boats registered in Illinois, it's especially important that all boaters be aware of the rules of operation. The best way to learn these is to take a boating safety course. Individuals between the ages of 10 and 18 must have successfully completed the course to legally operate a motorized water-craft, but even experienced operators benefit from a refresher course. To learn the location of the course near you, call 1-800-832-2599 or access the Department's website at http:// dnr.state.il.us/lands/education/safety. The TTY number for the hearing impaired is (217) 782-9175.

Be Safe

Know your boat's load limit and do not exceed it. Your boat should contain all the required safety equipment, but just having it on board is not enough. Wear your personal flotation device (PFD), and be sure all your passengers do. Children under the age of 13 must wear a PFD on watercraft under 26 feet while the watercraft is underway. Remember that even good swimmers do not always survive the shock or panic of sudden immersion in cold water, and that you can't swim if an impact or collision knocks you unconscious. Ninety percent of deaths from boating accidents are caused by drowning, which is the third leading cause of accidental death in the United States.

Pay Attention

While boating with a group is fun, it also can be distracting. Don't let the conversation and the music keep you from your vigil for other watercraft and skiers. Listen to the weather forecast and keep an eye on the sky to avoid getting caught in a storm. When boating at night, reduce your speed and always use running lights.

Designate a "Skipper"

If you want to consume alcohol while boating, choose a "designated skipper" to ensure that everyone in your group gets back to the dock safely. Keep in mind that more than half of the boating fatalities involve alcohol and that it is unlawful to use alcohol to a degree that it renders you incapable of safely operating your watercraft. A conviction for a first-time offender results in a one-year suspension of operating privileges, possible imprisonment for up to one year and a maximum fine of $1,000.

Personal Watercraft

In Illinois, it is the law to wear a personal flotation device when you're on a personal watercraft. Obey buoys, channel markers and no wake zones. Allow plenty of space between your craft and other personal watercraft, boats and swimmers. Be alert for skiers down in the water.

Water Skiing

When water skiing, always wear a personal flotation device designed for water skiing. Stay clear of shallow water or congested areas. Don't spray or "buzz" other skiers, swimmers or boats. Never ski after dark, and always have a spotter in the boat to alert the driver when you go down or encounter problems.

See You Next Time

Regardless of which water activity you choose, don't overestimate your ability or underestimate the stress factors. The combination of noise, wind, motion, sun and glare can lead to serious fatigue and double your reaction time. Play it safe so you can come back and play on the water again.

For publications on safe boating, contact the DNR Clearinghouse, 524 S. Second Street, Springfield, Ill. 62701-1787or phone (217) 782-7498.

July 2002   17