Marine Patrol: Boaters Need To Inspect Safety Gear

GILFORD, NH – Boaters returning to Granite State lakes, ponds and rivers for the summer recreation season this Memorial Day weekend should inspect their safety gear and take other measures to ensure safety while on the water, according to the NH Marine Patrol.

There is a new safety requirement this year for anyone 12 years of age or younger. They must wear US Coast Guard-approved life jackets at all times on the water. There is no grace period on this requirement and a summons will be issued to any boater not in compliance.

The Marine Patrol urges all boaters to take the following precautions before setting out:

• File a float plan: Let people know where you are going. If you have a copy of a chart showing your expected route, leave that with someone as well.
• Carry a cell phone or marine band radio so you will be able to call for help in an emergency.
• Test all safety equipment, including:
  • Life jackets – check them for weak fabric, rips or other defects.
  • Sound warning devices – make sure you have what the law requires. Try your horn to ensure that it works. Any craft 26 feet or longer must have a bell in addition to a horn.
  • Fire extinguishers – Make sure you have enough on board and double check all of the gauges to ensure they are charged. Keep them within reach so they will be accessible during an emergency.
  • Throwable life jacket (type IV) – if your boat is 16 feet or over, you have to have at least one. Ensure it is in serviceable condition and is not damaged.
  • Lights – check them; make sure they all work.
• Ask the NH Marine Patrol to perform a courtesy inspection of your vessel. There is no charge. The Marine Patrol will ask you to produce all of the required safety equipment required by law for your size vessel. If there is a deficiency, the Marine Patrol will tell you what safety equipment is needed. If your boat is in compliance with all safety requirements you will be issued a courtesy inspection sticker.

Last season, the NH Marine Patrol investigated five boating fatalities and 57 accidents involving power boats, conducted 217 courtesy inspections and responded to 2,386 calls for service.