Unsafe boating can ruin a good time fast

With over 33,000 miles of coastline, more than 3 million lakes and over 3,000 rivers, Alaska is a boater's paradise. Boats are a big part of the Alaskan lifestyle. Alaskans use their boats not only for recreation, but also for day to day transportation. Unfortunately, Alaska's superlatives also include the highest boating fatality rate in the nation. Until July 1998, Alaska was the only state without a boating safety program. In response, Governor Tony Knowles established the State Office of Boating Safety within the Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation. The Office is responsible for administering the Alaska Boating Safety Program, working to reduce Alaska's boating fatalities and enhance safe boating statewide.

The keys to safe boating are EDUCATION, SKILL, ATTITUDE, and sound, unimpaired JUDGEMENT. All boaters should take courses on boating and first aid, especially those specific to their type of boating, and then continue to learn and build their skills and abilities. Taking classes approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators will meet the education requirements of many of the other states and may qualify boaters for insurance discounts.

Alaskan boaters are often a long way from help, and must have the skill and ability to be able to deal with common boating problems such as mechanical breakdown, unexpected bad weather, or medical emergencies. Having the proper equipment and the skill to use it is critical. A thorough PRE-DEPARTURE CHECK, passenger briefing, and FLOAT PLAN should always be done before each departure.

Most boating fatalities in Alaska are hypothermia induced drowning, resulting from a capsize or a fall overboard. Very few of these victims were wearing life jackets at the time of their death. The Office of Boating Safety recommends all Alaskan boaters select the proper style and size life jacket for their type of boating, test it before use, and then always wear it when on deck or in an open boat.

For more information, visit the State's Office of Boating Safety web site