Mariners offer tips for National Safe Boating Week

WARWICK, R.I. (WLNE) — It’s National Safe Boating Week, and the Ocean State is sailing into summer.

The unofficial start of summer is just one week away, meaning more time outside and, for some, more time on the water.

Officials from the Sea Tow Foundation are offering reminders ahead of boating season.

“One of the biggest things we want boaters to remember to do is to wear their lifejackets and to make sure they fit properly,” Gail Kulp, executive director of the Sea Tow Foundation, said.

Kulp said eight out of ten boaters who die in a boating accident do so from drowning.

“We like to tell people you wouldn’t put your seatbelt on in the middle of a car accident,” Kulp said. “So don’t try to find and put on your lifejacket in the middle of a boating accident.”

The Sea Tow Foundation has lifejacket loaner stations in 1,300 locations all around the country, including here in Rhode Island, making it easy for boaters to borrow one for free if need be.

“Even though everyone has a mindset of having fun while they are on the water, the fun needs to start with a safety focus,” Ramsey Chason, owner of Sea Tow Cape & Islands and Rhode Island, said.

With that fun mindset, officials said alcohol is involved in many accidents.

“It’s really important to remember that, just like operating a motor vehicle [under the influence] is against the law, boating under the law of DUI is also illegal,” Chason said.

Akin to a designated driver, Ramsey recommended getting a sober skipper to ensure everyone’s safety.