Even during the frigid winter months, you'll see a few boaters venture out on the ocean, rivers and lakes all over the U.S. National Safe Boating Council Executive Director Rachel Johnson believes mariners are going out for any number of reasons. She said some are going out because they just have a passion for boating and even this colder weather isn't going to stop them. Others, could be headed out to fish. Johnson said in some of these areas the waters are less crowded in the winter and it's nice to have the water to themselves.

Regardless of the reason, Johnson, who's a graduate of Cold Water Boot Camp USA, said the National Safe Boating Council has launched its Safe Boating Campaign in an effort to remind mariners of the importance of safe boating year-round.

"Right now we're actually focusing on the do's and don'ts of cold weather boating because we know those people are out there and we need them to be safe whether it's warm or cold out."

Johnson offers boat safety tips that are applicable year-round:

  • Check the weather before you venture out - making sure there are no strong winds, storms or snow coming in.
  • File a Float Plan with someone you trust back on land. The Float Plan should include your trip, where you plan to go, when you plan to come back.
  • Check your equipment before setting off on the water. Make sure everything is in working order and go through a little check list.
  • Life Jackets also should also be checked, making sure its in good condition and not torn or missing buckles or have broken zippers.
  • Make sure the life jacket is U.S. Coast Guard Approved. That label should be inside every life jacket.

Hypothermia could also be an issue for boaters. Johnson advises you to dress for the temperature of the water and not the air temperature.

"Because if you do happen to fall in, you have that extra layer of insulation in addition to the life jacket."

When it comes to winter boating, Johnson said even though there are fewer boating accidents, there tends to be a higher fatality rate.

Most importantly she said, "make sure your life jacket is on before you go out on the water. That's the thing that we stress most. Most of the recreational boating drownings that we see every year are those that chose not to wear a life jacket. It's a simple life saving thing to do."

Get more information about the Safe Boating Campaign, The Cold Water Boot Camp USA and the National Safe Boating Council here.

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