District Eleven Public Affairs

Alameda, Calif.

Press Release

Date: August 29, 2008 

Contact: Coast Guard Public Affairs; 415-740-4364 or 510-772-8865

Coast Guard Urges Safe Boating Practices for Upcoming Holiday

SAN FRANCISCO - The Coast Guard is urging boaters to be especially vigilant while on the water during the holiday weekend, and to follow basic safe boating practices. The Coast Guard and partners agencies will be watching for those operating their vessels in an unsafe manner, and those who are boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

By using common sense practices such as keeping properly fitting, Coast Guard approved lifejackets onboard for all persons, and maintaining all safety equipment, such as flares and liferings, in good condition, recreational boaters can decrease the likelihood of being seriously injured or killed during a boating accident. Though the lawful requirement is that recreational boaters keep lifejackets onboard for all passengers, the Coast Guard strongly encourages those on the water to wear a personal floatation device at all times, should they end up injured in the water.

Recently, the approximate water temperature in San Francisco Bay has been 63 degrees (Fahrenheit). Although the weather may be warm over the holiday weekend, exposure to water of this temperature for more than one hour may result in hypothermia, unconsciousness, or possibly death. 

In addition to encouraging the preparation of safety equipment and vessel for a day on the water, the Coast Guard reminds all boaters that the use of alcohol or drugs while boating can increase the risk of accidents or fatalities. Environmental factors, such as sun, wind, and vibrations from the operation of the vessel, may increase the effects of alcohol, and cause fatigue and impaired judgement to set in quickly. Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs is dangerous and illegal, and those operators who jeopardize the lives of others can be subject to criminal charges.

"The Coast Guard encourages boaters to have fun on the water, but to do it safely," said Captain Paul Gugg, Commanding Officer of Coast Guard Sector San Francisco. "A few minutes of preparation before getting underway, and making the common sense decision not to use alcohol or drugs while boating, can decrease the likelihood of injury or fatality, and make the Bay a safer place for all."

  Visit www.uscgboating.org for information on safe boating.