Florida is the undisputed home of boating, with 1 million vessels registered in the Sunshine State and high ranking counties like Miami-Dade with 74,622 registrations. With that in mind, it’s ever important to practice safe boating techniques for a fun and rewarding experience on the water.
It is with great pride that Florida can be celebrated as “The Boating Capital of the World”, having registered over 1 million vessels across the state in 2022. However, there are still some areas to be improved upon – such as 54% of all vessel accidents being due to improper lookout and operator inexperience, with 70% of operators involved in fatal boating accidents having no formal boater education. National Safe Boating Week (May 20-26) provides an opportunity to emphasize the importance of safe boating practices and tips from experts.
Top Five Counties for Vessel Registration in Florida
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission proudly announced in 2002 the highest five counties for vessel registration in Florida. Miami-Dade led the pack with 74,622 registrations followed by Pinellas (53,867), Lee (50,304), Broward (47,741) and Hillsborough (41,495).
1. Wear a Lifejacket
2. Know the Rules of the Water
3. Check the Weather Conditions
4. Have Proper Safety Equipment Onboard
5. Be Aware of Other Boats
6. Take a Boating Safety Course
7. Leave a Float Plan
8. Keep an Eye on Alcohol Consumption
Boating is a popular recreational activity enjoyed by many in the state of Florida. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it is important to be aware of the best tips for boating safety. With the proper knowledge and preparation, individuals can have a safe and rewarding experience while out on the water.
Boaters should take a boating safety course to gain valuable knowledge and on-water experience. It is also important to schedule a free vessel safety check with local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons to ensure all essential equipment is present, working and in good condition. Before leaving the dock, boaters should always let someone on shore know the trip itinerary and wear a life jacket at all times. An engine cut-off switch is required by law and it is essential to check the forecast before departing. Boaters should always be aware of their surroundings and travel at safe speeds. Lastly, alcohol consumption while operating a boat is not allowed and communication devices that work when wet should be used. Taking these steps can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience out on the water.
Boaters should take pride in their responsibility to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience out on the water. Taking the time to enroll in a boating safety course provides valuable knowledge and on-water experience, while scheduling a free vessel safety check with local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons ensures all essential equipment is present, working and in good condition. Taking these extra steps before leaving the dock will help guarantee a secure journey. It is important to remember to always let someone on shore know the trip itinerary and wear a life jacket at all times. Additionally, an engine cut-off switch is required by law and it is essential to check the forecast before departing. Boaters should also be aware of their surroundings and travel at safe speeds, while keeping in mind that alcohol consumption while operating a boat is not allowed and communication devices that work when wet should be used. Taking these simple steps will help ensure a positive boating experience.
Boating Safety in Florida
Boating Safety Regulations
-Navigation Rules
-Personal Flotation Device Requirements
-Vessel Operation Restrictions
Courses Available
-Safe Boating Course
-Personal Watercraft Education
-Advanced Boater Education
-Boating Laws and Responsibilities
-Marine Radio Operator Permit
-Vessel Safety Check
-Offshore/Inshore Navigation Course
Discover the regulations and courses available in Florida for boat safety, and join a course of your choice at MyFWC.com/Boating. Boaters can take pride in their knowledge and preparedness while taking advantage of the great aquatic resources in the Sunshine State.
While Florida may boast as the “Boating Capital of the World”, any boaters partaking need to always remember to keep safety as their number one priority. By following best practice boating tips from reliable experts, including the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, navigating and enjoying this past time can be enjoyed with oneself and peers in a responsible and enjoyable manner – free from potential worry of something going wrong.
