Marine Patrols Citing Safety This July 4

Popular waterways across the state will be crowded with boaters and swimmers this Independence Day weekend. Marine law enforcement officers are taking the offensive to prevent accidents and save lives.

"We've had three boating-related fatalities in recent weeks and have seen numerous swimming related drownings," said Randy Henry, of the Oregon State Marine Board. "Marine patrol officers across the state are reporting some dramatic rescues, too. We're looking ahead to this weekend with a lot of concern, hoping that people will make good decisions in and around the water."

Marine patrol officers will be on the water in force beginning Friday, June 30, and continuing through the fireworks celebrations Tuesday night, July 4. A saturation patrol is planned on one major waterway, but all key rivers and lakes will be monitored, too. "We'll be focusing on Boating Under the Influence violations - we want intoxicated boaters off the water before they cause an accident. We're also looking for life jacket, equipment and operational violations. If you plan to be on the water this weekend, you need to make sure your boat is equipped, your people have life jackets and that they act responsibly."

Boating collisions almost always increase on Independence Day weekend. "Many boaters will be out all day - maybe the entire three days before July 4," said Henry. "They will be fatigued, some will be intoxicated and many won't have running lights on their boat if they stay out to watch fireworks. Dark is a particularly risky time to be on the water unless you are well prepared."

At the water's edge, toddlers and others will be venturing into the cool water to escape the summer heat. "Your risk of drowning doesn't end when you step off the boat. In some cases, it increases," said Henry. "What we teach in boat safety applies to people playing in the water or on docks." Henry offers the following suggestions to stay safe this weekend.

• Be on the offensive - wear a life vest when on your boat. About 80 percent of boating fatality victims weren't wearing a life vest.
• Be attentive - watch other boaters around. Don't assume they will see you.
• Be sober - leave the alcohol at home. Wind, sun, vibration and wave motion works with alcohol to increase impairment - in other words, it doesn't take much to be intoxicated. Intoxicated boat operators face stiff penalties if caught. If you see a boat operator who may be intoxicated, note the "OR" number and boat description, and report it immediately to a Marine Patrol officer, county sheriff or Oregon State Police.
• Be seen - make sure your boat has approved lights if you plan to be out after dark. Most new boats come with lights. Inexpensive clip-on lights are available at boat and sport stores. In a pinch, make sure a good flashlight is aboard.
• Be conservative - know your boating skills and don't exceed them. Avoid rough water, difficult rapids or other hazards unless you know you can safely navigate it.
• Be cautious - even when not on your boat. Small streams, calm reservoirs and lakes, even small ponds can be fatal, especially for youngsters. Having your child wear a life vest is simple insurance when playing near the water or on a dock. Close parental supervision is a must.

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