The Boating and Waterways Department encourages safe boating this Labor Day weekend
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Boaters in California enjoy a fun and safe day on the water while wearing U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets. Photo by the Boats and Waterways Department.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – As Labor Day weekend approaches, the California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) reminds boaters to put safety first while enjoying the state’s beautiful waterways. This holiday weekend is a popular time for recreational boating, and the DBW encourages everyone to follow best practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.
“Safety should always be the top priority when boating,” said Deputy Director Ramona Fernandez. “Remember to wear your life jacket, obey waterway rules and be considerate of other boaters. Responsible boating behavior will help ensure everyone enjoys their Labor Day weekend safely and with fun.”
Follow these safety tips for a safe and responsible time on the water:
- Wear your life jacket: Make sure you have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket of the correct size and for the appropriate type of activity for each person on board. Children under 13 must wear a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while on a moving vessel. According to U.S. Coast Guard recreational boating statistics, in 2023, 87 percent of drowning victims were not wearing a life jacket.
- Get your California Boater Card: Complete an approved safe boating course and receive your California Boater Card. California law requires boaters age 60 and younger to carry a California Boater Card. Beginning January 1, 2025, all operators of motorized boats, regardless of age, must obtain and carry one when on the water. This includes personal watercraft (PWC), boats with tow motors, and sailboats with motors. For more information, visit CaliforniaBoaterCard.com.
- Be prepared: Before you hit the water, check weather conditions, submit a floatation plan, and make sure you have the proper safety equipment, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, and an audible signaling device. For more information on required equipment and other safety tips, see the ABCs of California Boating.
- Avoid alcohol: Alcohol impairs judgment and reaction time. In California, it is illegal to operate a boat or water ski with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 percent or more. Officers can also arrest boaters with a BAC of less than 0.08 percent if conditions are deemed unsafe. DUI convictions can result in up to six months in jail and/or fines of up to $1,000. Two convictions within seven years can result in up to one year in jail. Boaters caught driving under the influence can also be barred from their trip and have their boat confiscated.
- Obey waterway rules: Follow all posted signs and observe local regulations and boating rules.
- Practice responsible boating: maintain a safe speed, be aware of your surroundings, and respect other boaters.
- Help keep our waterways clean: Practice clean and environmentally friendly practices when boating, such as always having oil absorbents on board and picking up everything you take out on the water, including food, trash and fishing line.
For more information on safe and responsible boating, visit the California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways website at www.dbw.parks.ca.gov.
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California State Parks ensure the health, inspiration and education of California’s people by helping to preserve the state’s extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valuable natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for quality outdoor recreation.
