Administered through the U.S. Coast Guard’s Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, the 2024 Life Jacket Loaner Programhas been awarded to 116 deserving groups across 45 states and territories. This means that the Sea Tow Foundation will officially have Life Jacket Loaner Stations established in all 56 states and territories this year!
Among the groups receiving life jackets and loaner stand building kits this year, 49 groups located across 39 different states are opening Life Jacket Loaner Stations for the first time., thus growing the impact and outreach of the program. A handful of the groups opening Life Jacket Loaner Stations applied because a water-related accident or tragedy occurred in their community, and they wanted to make a difference. This expansion ensures that more communities than ever before have access to essential life jackets in sizes for anyone to borrow and return for free.
All the life jacket loaner stations are hosted by a diverse array of organizations, including community groups, marine businesses, health care organizations, law enforcement agencies, municipalities, parks and over a dozen Sea Tow franchises. While some of the loaner stands are open year-round, the majority are operated seasonally which means that they’ll be opening soon for the summer boating season.
Despite the significant achievement of now having loaner stations in all 56 states and territories, the Sea Tow Foundation was not able to provide nearly enough life jackets to everyone that applied, so the demand for life jackets remains high. To further support the mission, companies or individuals with a surplus of new or gently-used life jackets are encouraged to donate them to the Sea Tow Foundation so that boaters can use them at the over 1,300 nationwide Life Jacket Loaner Stations. If you have life jackets to donate, please contact the Sea Tow Foundation at info@boatingsafety.com or fill out this form.
Happy Earth Day! As we celebrate this special day dedicated to environmental awareness, let's highlight the importance of cleaning up marine debris and properly disposing of our trash.
Here are 6 tips on how you can contribute to a cleaner and healthier marine environment while boating.
Pack Wisely: Before setting sail, plan your provisions carefully. Opt for reusable containers, utensils and water bottles to minimize single-use plastic waste. Choose products with minimal packaging, unpack products at home and bring only what you need.
Proper Disposal: Ensure your boat is equipped with proper waste disposal by using designated bins and trash bags secured on-board so nothing is blown into the water. Hold onto all your trash until you can reach a shore-based disposal bin.
Fishing Gear Management: If you're into fishing, be mindful of your equipment. Secure your gear correctly and when possible, participate in recycling programs for old or damaged fishing equipment.
Educate and Encourage: Encourage responsible practices among the boating community, such as picking up any litter you come across, even if it's not yours. The more people are aware, the greater the collective effort to keep our waters clean.
Participate in Cleanup Initiatives: Get involved in local or organized marine cleanup events. These initiatives bring communities together to clean up shorelines and waters, making a tangible impact on reducing marine debris.
Choose Eco-Friendly Products: Look for environmentally friendly alternatives for your boating supplies. Biodegradable cleaning products, for example, can help minimize the impact of chemicals on aquatic ecosystems.
As boaters, we have a responsibility to protect the waters we love. We can contribute to a cleaner marine environment by adopting mindful practices, reducing waste and actively participating in cleanup efforts. On Earth Day, and every day, let’s practice responsible boating and raise awareness about keeping our waters clean.
In case you haven’t heard, large parts of the United States will be treated to a total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024 . And, for those not in the direct path, there will be a partial eclipse.
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the earth, blocking all or part of the sun. While the total eclipse will last only a few minutes, there will be a few hours of reduced daylight leading up to and after the total eclipse, which is scheduled to happen in the middle of the day.
The Sea Tow Foundation is providing the following tips to boaters that may decide to get out on the water to observe the eclipse so that they can do it safely and have fun at the same time.
Research what time the eclipse will occur in your specific area by checking out the NASA website. Plan to head out on the water well before the eclipse will occur. You don’t want to miss it because you’re busy finding the perfect spot to anchor.
Be aware that the eclipse will cause darkness similar to the middle of the night if you are in the path of totality and the time leading up to and after the eclipse, or for those not in the direct path, the light will be like dusk or early dawn in terms of the amount of light. For this reason, make sure your navigation lights are working before you head out as you’ll need to use them.
Whether you intend to watch the eclipse from your boat or on land, ensure you have proper eyewear by purchasing solar eclipse glasses. Without proper eye protection, you can harm or burn your retinas if you look directly at the sun, causing permanent damage. Eclipse glasses should be certified by the American Astronomical Society. Make sure you plan to get them early so that they arrive on time for the big event.
Be prepared, get anchored and stay away from busy boating channels and bridges. Make sure your anchor sticks so that you don’t drift.
All passengers should be wearing life jackets during the eclipse since it will be very dark during the event.
Consider carrying a spotlight in case a boat is headed in your direction and doesn’t see you.
Don’t forget the sunscreen. Before and after the eclipse, you’ll still be in direct sunlight.
The last time the U.S. saw a total solar eclipse was in 2017, but the weather was cloudy through much of the country back then, so most people could not actually see the phenomenon. You don’t want to miss the April 8th eclipse because the U.S. will not witness another one until August 23, 2044.
Posted By Gail Kulp,
Wednesday, March 20, 2024
Updated: Tuesday, March 26, 2024
The Sea Tow Foundation’s inaugural online conference just wrapped up, and we are excited to share highlights from this incredible event. It was truly an amazing three days filled with education, networking, and community building, leaving us all feeling inspired and ready to take on the world of boating safety.
This groundbreaking conference was a testament to our collective efforts to make water safety more accessible for communities across the country and world – we were joined by individuals from 40 states and territories, plus a representative from the Kingdom of Tonga. Thanks to the generous sponsorships from Onyx, Garmin, and America's Boating Channel, along with funding from the Sport Fish Restoration & Boating Trust Fund, we were able to connect with a diverse group of participants who are eager to make a difference.
One of the most memorable parts of the conference was watching attendees learn from not only our speakers but also each other. Here’s a glimpse at the various topics and issues that attendees engaged in throughout the conference:
Strategic Use of Social Media: Participants gained valuable insights into leveraging social media platforms to engage audiences and promote awareness about loaner stations.
Networking and Community Building: The importance of networking within local communities emerged as a recurring theme. Attendees recognized the critical role that collaboration and team building play in getting permission to set up loaner stations, getting support from the elected officials for boating safety, and expanding the reach of life jacket loaner stations.
Effective PR and Advertising: We discussed strategies for effective public relations and advertising, and attendees left with actionable tactics to promote their own life jacket loaner stations.
Data-Driven Approaches: Conference speakers emphasized using real data and evidence-based practices to improve resource effectiveness.
Innovative Solutions: Attendees learned about innovative approaches to prevent the loss of life jackets, including inventory labeling and community-driven initiatives.
Importance of Shared Messaging: With nationally-focused presentations from the U.S. Coast Guard Office of Boating Safety, the Life Jacket Association and speakers talking about the U.S. National Water Safety Action Plan and the NASBLA K-12 PFD Standards, attendees had a chance to understand how their grassroots-focused loaner stations fit into the national picture. This highlighted the importance of everyone working together to share the same message: life jacket loaner stations save lives.
We loved seeing the attendees’ express enthusiasm for specific programs and initiatives introduced during sessions. Participants were eager to learn more about the value of partnerships and collaboration in enhancing life jacket loaner stations and learning effective strategies for engaging potential partners. Attendees were also intrigued by educational opportunities, gaining fresh ideas for community involvement with children in grades K-12 as well as adult volunteers and the manufacturers of life jackets. Many participants eagerly embraced new promotional strategies, including innovative campaigns like the "Caught Wearing a Jacket" initiative.
We were overwhelmed with positive feedback and responses from attendees. Here’s a look at what they had to say:
"I gained insights about where to find drowning data for my area and am taking away many great PR tips for promoting our loaner stations.”
"I learned about the empirical data that goes into how resources are used so they are more effective."
"I appreciate that there is a whole network of water safety organizations that work together to support the important task of preventing fatalities and saving lives.”
The inaugural Life Jacket Loaner Conference showcased the power of collaboration, education, and innovation in advancing water safety efforts. For those who couldn’t make it to the live conference, please check out the discounted registration that we’re offering so that you can view the recorded conference content through May 31st. To learn more, please visit: https://www.boatingsafety.com/page/lifejacketloanerconference
We want to thank all our speakers, sponsors and attendees for their invaluable contributions and enthusiastic participation. As attendees return to their communities armed with fresh perspectives and actionable strategies, we know they will undoubtedly ignite positive change. We are proud that the ripple effect of this event will extend widely and resonate through the numerous efforts and initiatives of our life jacket loaner stations and their incredible hosts.
Smooth sailing relies on more than just the wind in your sails or the power of your engine. One critical element that can often get overlooked is proper lighting on your boat. Whether you’re cruising through serene waters or navigating a hectic harbor, adequate lighting cannot be overstated. Not only does it ensure your safety and that of others on the water, but it also plays a pivotal role in compliance with maritime regulations.
Navigation lights are essential for boat lighting. They serve as a communication tool between vessels, indicating their position, direction and status on the water. Typically, boats display red, green and white navigation lights. Red and green lights are usually positioned on the port (left) and starboard (right) sides, respectively. These lights indicate the direction the boat is moving when seen from another boat at night. A white light is often mounted at the stern and it can also be mounted on top of a mast or placed on top of the cabin. A white light may also be the only light shown for small canoes, kayaks or row boats out at night. No matter what kind of boat is out, the white light should be visible from all directions, indicating its position and ensuring other nearby vessels are aware of its existence.
The trend of decorating boats with colorful LED strips or deck lights has gained popularity. Some people feel that certain colors attract fish while others like to add some lights only during the holiday season. No matter why you decide to add some pizzazz to your boat with decorative lights, the lights must not obstruct or interfere with the visibility or functionality of navigation lights.
Here are some essential tips to ensure your decorative lights don’t compromise your safety:
●Secure Installation: Make sure all lights and decorations are securely fixed and won't interfere with the required red, green and white navigation lights. They should also not reduce the operator's visibility.
●Battery-Operated LED Lights: Opt for battery-operated LED lights to minimize power usage and reduce fire risks. These lights are efficient and reduce the risk of electrical problems on your boat.
●Regular Maintenance: Check that the navigation lights as well as the decorative lights work properly before leaving the dock. Malfunctioning lights can create confusion and compromise safety. And, a failure to display the red, green and white navigation lights could result in a hefty fine from law enforcement.
●Weight Distribution: Avoid overloading your boat with decorations and decorative lights, as excessive weight can affect its balance and safety on the water. Distribute decorations evenly to maintain stability.
Proper lighting on your boat isn’t just about illuminating the night; it’s essential to safe navigation. Maintaining a balance between aesthetics and safety is crucial for boat owners. Incorporating decorative lights in a way that complements, rather than hampers, your boat is the goal. Make sure you understand and adhere to maritime lighting regulations and help maintain a safe environment for all on the water.
The holidays are a time of celebration, joy and making memories with family and friends. For many of us, these festivities extend to the waters, where we enjoy boating under the glistening holiday lights and among the seasonal cheer. However, amidst the merriment, ensuring safety on the water should remain a top priority.
Boating Under the Influence (BUI) caused 215 accidents and 88 boating fatalities nationwide last year. These sobering statistics serve as an important reminder to drink responsibly on the water this season. We’ve learned the importance of assigning designated drivers for car trips, but those same rules must apply on the water as well. BUI is always illegal, and it’s also 100% preventable.
To make sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable holiday season, consider these 8 essential tips:
Wear Life Jackets: Everyone on board should be wearing their properly fitted, US Coast Guard approved life jackets on top of all their layers. With colder water and air, plus early darkness at night, it is the safest option for everyone, regardless of their swimming abilities.
Monitor the Weather: Stay informed about weather conditions before and during your boating trip. Sudden weather changes can pose significant risks.
Plan Ahead: Plan your trip in advance, including a route and estimated return time. Share this float plan with someone staying on land who can alert authorities if you don’t return on schedule.
Decorate Safely: If you decorate your boat, make certain all lights and decorations are secure and won't interfere with the required red, green and white navigation lights or reduce the operator's visibility. Use battery-operated LED lights to minimize power usage and reduce fire risks. Make sure the decorative lights are working properly and won't cause any electrical problems. Additionally, don't overload your boat with decorations, as excessive weight can affect its balance and safety on the water. Distribute the decorations evenly.
Follow Boat Parade Guidelines: If you choose to participate in a holiday boat parade or watch one from your own boat on the water, pay attention to the parade route and guidelines set by the organizers. Maintain a safe distance from other boats, and don't impede the passage of larger vessels. And don’t all try to leave at the same time when the parade is over as the waterways will be crowded.
Designate a Sober Skipper: Boaters should always confirm that either they or someone else is designated as a Sober Skipper for every boating trip. A Sober Skipper is in charge of the safe operation of the boat and keeping all of the passengers on the boat safe. The goal of the Sea Tow Foundation’s Sober Skipper Campaign is to eliminate Boating Under the Influence accidents. Make sure to take the Sober Skipper Pledge this holiday season and always have a Sober Skipper behind the helm.
Offer Drink Alternatives: Provide non-alcoholic beverage options, like Root Beer, and encourage responsible drinking habits among your fellow passengers.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: In addition to a Sober Skipper, if passengers do plan to drink alcohol, they should do so responsibly and in moderation. Overindulgence can impair judgment and reaction time, increasing the risk of accidents.
This year, as we celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah or any of the holidays on our boats, let’s commit to practicing responsible boating. Remember, the enjoyment of boating during the holidays is best when everyone returns home safely. Let's make responsible decisions and look out for each other to ensure a happy and incident-free holiday season on the water.
Posted By Gail Kulp,
Thursday, November 16, 2023
Updated: Thursday, November 16, 2023
The holiday season has officially started which means it’s time to think about what gifts to get your friends and family. If they are boaters, the Sea Tow Foundation may be able to help! Whether the boaters in your life are brand-new to the pastime or have been boating for the last 40 years, we’ve compiled a list of 10 gifts to help you pick just the right one for them. And, we’ve included gifts at multiple price-points for those budget-conscious shoppers. Plus, we’ve included the links to help you shop right now!
Boating in unknown waters is challenging, but even the local waterways can change as storms or tides move navigational buoys from time to time. A mobile app subscription to Navionics features charts, markers, weather and wind forecasts, tides, currents, sonar for fishing or diving, and turn-by-turn directions from one location to another on the water. Think of it as an on the water GPS, meteorologist and boating expert all in one!
Register your loved one with iLearntoBoat - the only interactive, online boating safety course that is recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators. It is important to meet the requirements of your state’s boating licensing agency and as laws can often be updated or changed, a boating safety course will ensure that your favorite boater is compliant and stays safe out on the water. . Plus, when they pass the test, many boat insurance companies will provide a discount.
Protecting the eyes is important for boaters who spend a lot of time on the water in the bright sun. Rheos Sunglassesare featherlight, high-performance glasses that will never sink and are also extremely comfortable to wear. Better yet, a portion of all proceeds helps to protect the coastlines and waterways.
A relatively new item on the market is the electronic flare. These devices are certified by the U.S. Coast Guard to replace traditional flares for emergency signaling by boaters. An ACR ResQFlare is 10 times brighter than a traditional flare, doesn’t expire or need to be replaced every few years, can float and still work after being in water, and won’t cause burns to people or equipment. Plus, the light from an E-Flare lasts for hours compared to the 2-3 minutes that a traditional flare burns.
You always want your loved ones to come back from their fishing or boating trip, which is why a brand-new, inflatable life jacket from Onyx Outdoorsis the perfect gift this holiday season. Not only does it allow your boater to have full mobility, but it does so without sacrificing safety.
Cobra makes a handheld VHF radio that also floats, has a noise-canceling microphone, a backlit LCD display, and connects to NOAA weather. Your boating friend will have everything they need to keep in touch when in remote areas or spending time off-shore!
Listening to music on the water is a great way to relax and have fun in your boat. Kicker Marine’s 6.5 inch speakers are UV treated and meant to be mounted in the hull. They feature seven color-changing LED lights and can handle 65 watts.
There’s no better gift for your favorite boater than peace of mind on the water. Whether your boating buddies are on lakes, rivers or the open ocean, a Sea Tow membership can be the perfect gift. A membership comes complete with 24/7/365 marine assistance, tows, fuel deliveries, jump starts and so much more. You can even buy the membership instantly online, making it the perfect last-minute holiday gift in the days, hours and even minutes leading up to whenever your friends and family open their presents!
The Qualified Captain has put together a rugged outdoor kit containing first aid supplies to treat common injuries and control bleeding. This first aid and trauma kit is great for a boat, RV, ATV or other outdoor adventure so it can be useful in lots of venues.
Getting help in an emergency is critical for boaters. Cell phones are unreliable out on the water, but a Garmin InReach Mini 2 is always able to get a signal if a boater has a good view of the sky so that rescuers know exactly where the boater is located and can send help to that exact position. And, it can also send a text message in a non-emergency situation so your loved one can let you know that they’ll be 30 minutes late for dinner!
Many people think that boaters are difficult to shop for, but these 10 gift recommendations make it easy, simple and stress free. Happy holidays, and happy shopping!
Please note that the Sea Tow Foundation may receive compensation as an affiliate of Amazon’s for purchases made with some of these links. Prices may vary from what is printed.
Just because summer is over doesn’t mean boating season is. For thousands of families across the country, boating is a year-round activity, which means the boating safety conversation is still needed. In fact, boating during the winter increases the risk of injuries and fatal overboard incidents are five times greater during colder months. Even in Florida, the air temperatures can drop to near freezing many times over the winter months and this can be dangerous if someone were to end up in the water and be chilled by the cold air. To help you and your family stay safe and navigate cold waters with confidence, we gathered 10 crucial boating safety tips for the winter so you can focus on creating lasting memories on the water:
Stay Informed about Local Weather Conditions
Always check the weather forecast before heading out on a boating trip. This is good advice year-round, but in the winter, the weather can be unpredictable. It's crucial to be aware of any potential storms, strong winds or sudden temperature drops.
Layer Up and Don’t Forget Your Insulated Gloves
Dress warmly and carry a towel and extra clothes in a waterproof dry bag in case you get wet or fall in. Layer your clothing, starting with a moisture-wicking inner layer, followed by insulating fabrics like fleece, polyester or wool. Avoid wearing cotton, as it doesn't keep you warm when it gets wet.
Cold hands can also make it challenging to operate equipment and handle ropes. Invest in a pair of insulated, waterproof gloves to keep your hands warm and functional when you are boating during the winter.
File a Float Plan
Always inform someone on land about your boating plans, including your intended route, estimated return time and emergency contacts. A float plan can be a lifesaver year round, but especially if unexpected events occur during your winter boating adventure.
Carry Emergency Signaling Devices
In winter conditions, visibility can be reduced due to fog, snow or rain. It also gets dark a lot earlier, which means that nighttime conditions may sneak up on you. Ensure you have reliable signaling devices on board, such as an E-Flare, an air horn or a whistle, so you can efficiently alert others in the case of an emergency.
Inspect Your Life Jackets
Check that your life jackets are in good condition and still fit properly. In cold weather, you should always wear your life jacket on top of a coat or any other layers, so it is possible that you’ll need a larger sized life jacket than what you usually wear in the summer. A properly fitted life jacket is even more critical for buoyancy and warmth. If you need to borrow a life jacket, you can do so free of charge from one of our many Life Jacket Loaner Stations. Just check to make sure the loaner station is not seasonal, as many stations are removed during cold weather.
Avoid alcohol
Avoid alcohol at all times in the boat, especially if you are the one behind the wheel. Alcohol doesn’t keep you warm and can lead to poor decision making no matter what time of year it is. Always make sure to be or designate a Sober Skipper before getting on the water. You can take the Sober Skipper pledge here.
1-10-1 Rule for Cold Water Immersion
If you find yourself in cold water, remember the "1-10-1 Rule." This rule applies to anyone who falls into cold water. You have about one minute to control your breathing, less than 10 minutes for self-rescue and about one hour before you become unconscious.
Post-Rescue Care
If you or someone else is rescued from cold water, it's crucial to prevent post-rescue collapse. This occurs when cold blood moves too quickly to the heart, potentially leading to a fatal heart attack or stroke. Remove wet clothes and put on dry ones, warm up slowly and avoid any alcohol or caffeine. Seek medical help immediately, even if you feel fine, as only trained professionals can properly address cold water immersion injuries.
Educate Your Passengers
Ensure all of your passengers know the safety protocols, including how to wear life jackets, the location of emergency equipment and how to respond to different emergency situations. Even though you might be a four-season boater, it doesn’t mean your passengers have been out on the water in winter.
Practice safe hunting practices
Many people choose to hunt from a boat in the winter months and may even bring a dog along to help retrieve ducks or geese. Make sure you stay balanced in the boat before pulling the trigger, as the recoil can easily throw you overboard. Also, be careful reaching for the dog or the game as you bring them on board so you don’t fall in.
As temperatures drop and conditions become more unpredictable, boating safety is needed now more than ever. Safety is not just a recommendation; it’s the key to being able to go out on the water another day. Following these important tips and guidelines will help ensure you have a fun and enjoyable boating experience in the colder months. Stay safe, stay warm and continue to enjoy the beauty of our waterways year-round.
As a non-profit organization, the Sea Tow Foundation does not receive dedicated funding from any source, so your support is important to continue our life-saving programs. These programs include our nationwide Life Jacket Loaner Program, Sober Skipper Campaign, Flare Education Program, and the National Boating Safety Awards. Our goal is to provide free education, tools and resources to eliminate preventable boating accidents, but we need your help. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation today.
The Sea Tow Foundation programs are available to our nationwide network of Sea Tow Captains, and many of them utilize our programs or provide monetary support, like Capt. Kerry Kline of Sea Tow Central Florida Lakes. In the video shown below, Capt. Kerry says, “we see too many accidents and fatalities on the water. It is heartbreaking…. That’s why Sea Tow Captains like me donate so much of our time and effort to establishing, maintaining, and promoting free life jacket loaner stations across the country.”
Capt. Kerry supports the Sea Tow Foundation. His reason: “I know it makes my community safer. I want my community, my neighbors, my friends, my family and my members to be safe.”
Help keep the people you care about safe and support the Sea Tow Foundation with a donation today at www.boatingsafety.com/donate.
Posted By Michael Wesolowski,
Thursday, October 26, 2023
Updated: Thursday, October 26, 2023
Costumes, candy corn, Jack-O-Lanterns, trick-or-treats, pumpkin spice everything – it’s officially that time of year once again! Here at the Sea Tow Foundation, Halloween is one of our favorite holidays. While most blog posts out there share tips on the perfect DIY costume or home decor, we thought, being the boating safety nonprofit we are, we’d take things in a different direction by sharing a few secrets on how to dress up your boat or paddleboard!
If you’re looking for some fun ways to really get into the spooky spirit this Halloween, check out the ideas below:
Spooky Sounds and Halloween Hits – You didn’t splurge for those top-of-the-line marine speakers for nothing! Make good use of your boat’s sound system by playing spooky sound effects or your favorite Halloween hits. You can never go wrong with “Monster Mash!”
Jack-O-Lanterns Galore – There are no shortage of great ideas and themes for carving pumpkins this time of year and you’re sure to turn some heads this Halloween season with well thought out Jack-O-Lanterns on your boat! Use battery-operated lights inside instead of candles, though. Open fires and boats don’t mix!
Pumpkins aren’t just for decorating - Consider signing up for a giant pumpkin water race with some friends. Find a giant pumpkin, hollow it out, put on a life jacket and climb inside. And then see how far you can paddle!
Lights, lights, and more lights – Whether you’re piloting a yacht, a pontoon or a small dinghy, you’ve got room to add a few festive lights to your boat. Even if you don’t have the time or space to really take your haunts to the next level, you can’t go wrong with a string of orange lights to get into the spooky spirit. Just make sure that your navigation lights are still visible and won’t be blocked.
Host a dockside trick-or-treat – A great way to get the young ones hooked on a lifelong love of boating is to spend as much time as possible with them in and around the water. This Halloween, instead of heading door to door in your neighborhood, see if your local marina is willing to host their own trick-or-treat event down on the docks. Everyone can decorate their boat and the dock around it and the kids are sure to love it! They can even find fun ways of incorporating their life jackets into their costume ideas!
Do you have other Halloween-inspired boating ideas? Share them with us on Facebook or Instagram!
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