Get Ready to Boat Safe, ChumCity!

National Safe Boating Week is almost here, and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is hitting the water with a statewide campaign to keep everyone safe this Memorial Day weekend. Think of it as a heads-up to avoid crashes, injuries, and the worst-case scenario by focusing on learning, sticking to the rules, and working together on Alabama's awesome waterways.

Boating is Big, Safety is Bigger

We all love a day on the water! But with tons of people boating nationwide, safety's gotta be top of mind. Sadly, around 650 folks die in boating accidents each year in the U.S., with drowning being a major factor. ALEA's campaign is all about boosting awareness of what causes these accidents and how we can avoid them.

Smart Boating: It's All About You!

Most boating mishaps aren't due to equipment problems or bad weather; it's usually human error or just plain bad decisions. Often, simple steps could have made all the difference. So, what can you do to stay safe?

Boating Safety Checklist:

• Wear a Life Jacket: Keep it on! A life jacket's useless if it's stowed away. Kids under 8 in Alabama must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket, unless they're below deck or in a cabin.

• Take a Boating Course: Learn the ropes! A safety course gives you vital knowledge and real-world experience.

• Check Your Gear: Make sure everything's there, working, and in good shape.

• Float Plan: Let someone know your itinerary. Boat details, passenger info, where you're going – share it all.

• Engine Cut-Off Switch: Use it! It's the law, and it can save you from serious injury if you're thrown overboard.

• Watch the Weather: Check the forecast before you go, and keep an eye on conditions while you're out there.

• Stay Alert: Don't get distracted! Operator inattention is a major cause of accidents.

• Know the Area: Follow speed limits and local waterway rules.

• No BUI: Never boat under the influence! It's a factor in a third of all recreational boating fatalities.

• Stay Connected: Bring waterproof communication devices like a VHF radio, satellite phone, or emergency beacon.

National Safe Boating Week: Your Reminder!

National Safe Boating Week happens May 17–23, supported by the U.S. Coast Guard, the National Safe Boating Council, and agencies like ALEA. Time for us Alabamians (and visitors!) to take those easy steps for a fun, safe summer on the water!