FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 20, 2013
MEDIA CONTACTS: Collin Nash, Ryan Mulholland, & Sam Marksheid | (516) 869-7794
North Hempstead Reminds Residents to Boat Safely This Summer
North Hempstead, NY – With summer here and the Independence Day holiday around the corner, Supervisor Jon Kaiman and the North Hempstead Town Board would like to take the opportunity to remind residents of responsible boating practices.
“Boater education can help prevent accidents and save lives,” said Supervisor Kaiman. “By obtaining the required certificates in advance and carefully following the rules of the water, you are not only protecting yourself and your family, but other boaters as well.”
According to Recreational Boating Statistics, an annual report that contains statistics on recreational boating accidents and state vessel registration, “In 2012, the Coast Guard counted 4,515 accidents that involved 651 deaths, 3,000 injuries and approximately 38 million dollars of damage to property as a result of recreational boating accidents.”
These chilling numbers are an indication that boaters need to be aware of safety measures on all waterways including when boating off of North Hempstead’s Town Dock in Port Washington.
“The Town’s Harbor Patrol is monitoring waterways in order to keep all boaters safe and out of harm’s way,” explained Town Public Safety Commissioner Andrew DeMartin. “Boaters must obey posted speed limits and especially must not drink and drive.”
Boating while intoxicated is not taken lightly, and can lead to serious consequences. In New York State, you will be arrested for BWI for operating a boat, jet ski, or other watercraft with a blood alcohol content of .08% or higher. Just as with driving, alcohol affects your peripheral vision, night vision, judgment, coordination, balance, reaction time and ability to focus: all skills that are necessary to operate a watercraft.
To stay safe, boaters should carry the necessary boating information and certifications with them at all times. It’s important to have the right safety gear and equipment before you get out on the water, such as a first aid kit, life jackets, and distress signals. It is also imperative for boaters to always be aware of the weather conditions, operate at a safe speed at all times, and avoid alcohol.
For more information on safety tips and navigation rules, please call 311.
The North Hempstead Town Dock in Port Washington.