Schools around the state are wrapping up their spring semesters, which means that families and friend groups will be heading to the lake for weekends spent out on the water. Many great memories are made for a lot of people, both residents and others from around the country, that come to experience the beauty Alabama has to offer.

With the increased number of people taking their boats out there is also an increased importance in being aware of your surroundings. According to the U.S. Coast Guard’s Recreational Boating Statistics, in 2020 there were 96 boating accidents in Alabama, including twelve fatalities. By following boating safety guidelines and adhering to rules and regulations, however, people can minimize the risk of an accident happening.

Tips to stay safe while boating

Following the few tips below will assist in making your boating experience as safe and enjoyable as possible:

1. Know the weather the day you plan on boating – navigating the wind and water is difficult for anyone, no matter how long you have been sailing. It is advised to not go in the water if strong or severe storms are forecasted for a given day.

2. Do not drink and drive – as you wouldn’t get in a car after consuming alcohol, operating a boat while under the influence is also against Alabama law. This includes water skis, personal watercrafts, and motorboats alike, as all pose a danger to you and those around. If you are discovered to be boating under the influence, boating privileges may be revoked as well as a fine of up to $2,100 for the first offense.

3. Know the rules of boating – again, as with driving, knowing how to steer and navigate the vessel is important for the safety of everyone out on the water. One of the most important of these rules is to simply be aware of the other boats around you to avoid a collision.

4. Avoid speeding and reckless operation – it is against Alabama rules to operate a boat in a manner that endangers the public. Along with speeding, this also includes activities such as exceeding maximum capacity, allowing people to sit on the bow while the boat is moving, and creating a wake. 

What is required in a boat:

Having a boat that is up to standards makes the experience not only safer, but also more relaxing for those operating the vessel. According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, the following items must be included on the boat or in the boat:

- Lights. All boats are required to have navigation lights when operating at night.

- Personal Flotation Devices (PFD). Each person on the boat must wear a PFD approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. The type of PFD depends on the size of the boat.

- Fire Extinguishers. All vessels with closed compartments where fuel tanks are stored, vessels equip with various types of gas, or vessels with closed or semi-closed cabins must have a U.S. Coast Guard approved fire extinguisher.

- Flame Arrestor. Any vessel using gasoline as fuel, except outboard motors, must have the carburetor(s) equipped with a U.S. Coast Guard approved flame arrestor.

- Emergency cut-off switch. Any vessel less than 24 feet in length with more than fifty horsepower must have an emergency shut-off switch that is attachable to each person or floating device.

- Sound device. Vessels that are 16 feet or more in length must have a signal device for nighttime use or during inclement weather.

- Visual Distress Signals. These are to ensure that those operating or on a vessel can signal for help in the event of an emergency.

- Divers Flag. Signal to other boat owners to stay at least 100 feet away from the displayed flag.