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:

1. 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.
   
   
2. Monitor the Weather: Stay informed about weather conditions before and during your boating trip. Sudden weather changes can pose significant risks.
   
   
3. 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.
   
   
4. 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.
   
   
5. 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.
   
   
6. 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.
   
   
7. Offer Drink Alternatives: Provide non-alcoholic beverage options, like Root Beer, and encourage responsible drinking habits among your fellow passengers.
   
   
8. 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.