For Immediate Release

Date: May 23 2005

Memorial Day Kicks Off Summer Boating Season

Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial kick off to the summer boating season. The Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) has a few reminders for boaters before heading out.

• If you are 45 and younger be sure to have your mandatory boater education card when operating a boat. “Last year, 614 citations were issued to boaters who did not have their boater education card,” says Ashley Massey, the mandatory education coordinator for the OSMB. Failure to carry a boater education card carries a $94 citation. “Classes are available in most counties statewide,” says Massey, “We have a full listing of classes and internet courses on our website at www.boatoregon.com, or call us at (503) 373-1405 x273.

• There’s still time to register your boat. “With the weather forecast looking good for the holiday weekend, we are beginning to have longer lines at the Marine Board office as people are preparing for the weekend and registering their boats,” says Jyll Smith, public information officer for the OSMB. “Boaters can also visit one of our agents and if they have the renewal reminder postcard they can register through our web site.” By going to an agent or online, boaters will be able to get a temporary permit that is good until the decal arrives.

• Safety: Look over your boat and make sure all the safety equipment is present and in good condition. "Oregon’s waters are cold and swift. Hypothermia is a big issue this time of year,” says Smith. “Wearing a properly fitting life jacket not only will keep you afloat if you fall in but it can also help insulate you from the cold water.” Kids 12 and under must wear a life jacket. Other items to check include your fire extinguisher, plug in your navigation light to confirm it functions and that you've got a whistle on board or that your horn works. Check your anchor and rope, flares, communications equipment and other safety items.

• Boaters should check river flows before getting on the river and be aware that conditions can change rapidly. Smith advises boaters to carefully survey the area and be especially careful of stumps, sand bars, submerged rocks and other debris in the water.

A final reminder from Smith, “As always, we encourage people to leave the alcohol at home. We want people to wear their life jackets and boat safe, boat sober. And have a great holiday weekend on the water."

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