How to stay safe on the waters during boating season

Jenna Prestininzi, Detroit Free Press
·2 min read

As Michigan's annual boating season gets started, let's take a closer look at the state boating industry and best practices for enjoying a safe, relaxing season.

Here's what you need to know to stay safe on the water.

Boating season

With spring officially beginning on Monday, expect more boaters out on the water for this year's season. Activity already picked up this winter, with the Detroit Boat Show bringing in boating owners and companies from across the state in January. The two-weekend event featured a variety of new and used boats for sale, in addition to live music, classes and more. Heading into the spring and summer, boaters will be preparing to take their boats and equipment out on the water, exploring lakes and rivers across Michigan.

Memorial Day weekend will likely bring out a lot of boaters for the summer, with warmer weather conditions making boating activity more favorable.

Expectations

Annually, about 100 million Americans go boating, with higher activity during the upcoming spring and summer season. The popular activity brings out boaters across metro Detroit, on smaller waterways like the Detroit River and Lake St. Clair, while also bringing residents to the Great Lakes and smaller lakes in northern Michigan.

Industry state

The national boating industry brings in about $170 billion annually, with boat sales and boat shows bringing in significant funding. This comes at a cost to boat owners, who must invest in the purchase, maintenance and storage of their boats. Americans spend $49.3 billion annually on keeping up their boats, including the cost of accessories, fuel, insurance and winter storage.

More:Hundreds of boats on display for the Progressive Detroit Boat Show

More:Michigan angler brings in 55-inch lake sturgeon during state's 65-minute season

Boater protocol

Boaters should follow key practices to stay safe on the water, including driving responsibly, keeping communication devices nearby, and wearing proper protection.

  • Boaters should wear life jackets to ensure safe boating and prevent accidents. Life jackets provide crucial assistance in case of emergency, keeping boaters afloat in the water. In fatal boating accidents, 86% of those who drowned were not wearing a life jacket, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.

  • Avoid alcohol use while boating to maintain control of your boat and ensure safe navigation. Boating under the influence can impair judgement, balance, vision and reaction time, and increase fatigue. This makes boating dangerous and increases the risk for accidents to occur.

  • Boaters should prepare to keep in touch with authorities if needed. Keep a cell phone or marine radio on hand if you need to call for assistance in an emergency.

Additional safety information can be found on the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: How to stay safe on the waters during boating season