On a boat, wind, vibration, noise, and the sun can impair balance, coordination, and concentration - all of which are intensified by the use of alcohol, drugs, or even some medications.
Alcohol use is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents every year, but if every boat were to have a Sober Skipper at the helm, these accidents and deaths would be 100% preventable.
Our goal at the Sea Tow Foundation is to eliminate Boating Under the Influence (BUI) by encouraging all boaters to choose to be or to designate a sober skipper before leaving the dock and "Take the Pledge" to not drink any alcohol or take any drugs. Do it for your family, your friends, your passengers and everyone else on board your boat and on the water, so nothing can take you down.
What do you think is missing from our tips? Would you add anything to our list? Let us know in the comments.
Posted By Gail Kulp,
Friday, October 13, 2023
Updated: Friday, October 6, 2023
Boating can be an exhilarating experience, but it's important to remember that safety must always accompany adventure. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a novice navigator, staying informed about local boating safety laws is crucial for a successful voyage.
States are frequently revising their boating laws and requirements to protect the safety and well-being of their local boaters. Another possible change made by states may include implementing new mandatory boating education requirements. It's essential to stay up-to-date about changes in your state’s boating safety laws so you can be certain you comply with the rules before heading to the water. These laws are put in place to protect both boaters and the environment, which is why they shouldn’t be taken lightly.
To ensure you are meeting the most up-to-date boating safety requirements, regularly check your state’s laws online for updates and changes. We recommend searching “Boating safety laws/requirements in {state name}” – you will typically be directed to that specific state’s official website, which will have all of the information you need. Boaters should closely research the laws in any state where they may be boating, not just the state where they live.
Whether or not your state requires you to take a boating safety course, it's still a wise choice to take a course. Education is the key to safe and enjoyable boating, regardless of where you live. Plus, you can often get a discount on your boat owner’s insurance with proof of completing a boating safety course.
Boating safety education courses provide valuable knowledge and skills that every boater should have. Here’s why you should consider enrolling in a boating safety course:
Enhanced Safety: Learning about maritime rules, navigation and emergency procedures can significantly reduce the risk of accidents on the water.
Legal Compliance: As state laws evolve, completing a boating safety course can ensure you remain in compliance with current regulations.
Environmental Awareness: Boating safety courses often include modules on eco-friendly practices, helping you protect the waterways you love.
Confidence on the Water: Gaining expertise through education can boost your confidence while boating.
Responsible Boating: Taking a safety course demonstrates your commitment to responsible boating and sets a positive example for others. You can check out our Sober Skipper Program, an initiative to eliminate Boating Under the Influence (BUI) by encouraging all boaters to be or designate a sober skipper before leaving the dock. In every state, it is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The ever-changing landscape of boating safety laws highlights the need for continuous education and awareness. Chart your course to a safer boating experience – stay informed about your state’s boating laws, and take the necessary steps to make safety a priority on the water at all times.
Posted By Gail Kulp,
Monday, June 26, 2023
Updated: Friday, June 2, 2023
There are many reasons why you should designate a sober skipper when boating. You can remember these using the acronym PLUS:
Peace of mind: Knowing that there is a sober person in charge of the boat can help you relax and enjoy your time on the water. Especially because the sober skipper is not going to be drinking any alcohol or taking any drugs.
Legality: In every single state, it is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Designating a sober skipper can help you avoid getting legal problems because BUI is 100% preventable.
Upstanding: The Sober Skipper should be respected and appreciated by everyone for being the safe operator of the boat. In fact, everyone should thank their Sober Skipper for their willingness to help prevent boating accidents and take charge of all of the people in the boat.
Safety: Alcohol impairs judgment and coordination, which are essential for safe boating. A sober skipper is more likely to make sound decisions and be able to react quickly to unexpected situations plus they are familiar with the boat and how it operates as well as the waterways.
Designating a sober skipper is a simple way to make boating safer and more enjoyable for everyone. If you are planning on boating, make sure to designate a sober skipper before you leave the dock or launch your boat.
As the summer boating season is well underway, the need to prevent Boating Under the Influence (BUI) accidents increases as more and more boaters take to the waterways with coolers full of alcohol. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, the leading primary contributing factor to boating-related deaths is alcohol use, yet this is 100% preventable when a Sober Skipper is designated before heading out on the water.
The Sea Tow Foundation’s BUI prevention effort known as the Sober Skipper Campaign has been in existence since 2015 and the concept is catching on with boaters because the number of boating accidents, deaths and injuries have all decreased since that time. However, more efforts are needed as we work to achieve the goal of “Heading to Zero” accidents, deaths and injuries related to BUI. The Sea Tow Foundation believes that alcohol use should never be the reason why someone doesn’t come home from a day on the water. This is why the Sea Tow Foundation encourages all boaters to take the Sober Skipper Pledge.
The Sea Tow Foundation has developed a number of free materials that provide the education, tools and resources needed to eliminate BUI. A short and engaging PSA video was developed to target the key audience involved in most BUI accidents and it can be shared easily on social media or through email. A free downloadable Sober Skipper Resource Kit provides key messages, talking points, media relations tools and other details. Sober Skipper Aluminum signage and many other new and updated Sober Skipper materials are now available for a low flat rate shipping price. These items include the updated yellow Sober Skipper wristband that can be used as a reminder that the boater has taken the Sober Skipper Pledge and the updated floating yellow Sober Skipper keychain was added to serve as another reminder as well as a place to put the boat keys. The newest item available to request is the yellow Sober Skipper whistle that comes on a coiled wristband. Not only does the whistle meet carriage requirements for a sound-producing device, but it is a great reminder of the Sober Skipper Pledge. Packages of the wristbands, keychains and wristbands are available for distribution to boating safety classes, yacht clubs, community organizations, and they can also be used in events like boat shows and safety fairs to spread the Sober Skipper message and help the Sea Tow Foundation work to eliminate BUI for our waterways this summer.
Visit our online store to find these items and many more available that meet the Sea Tow Foundation’s vision of a world where all boaters are safe and responsible someday soon.
Posted By Gail Kulp,
Thursday, June 15, 2023
Updated: Thursday, June 15, 2023
Many towns and cities around the country will be firing off spectacular community fireworks displays over the water on holidays like July 4th and New Year's Eve. One of the best places to watch these spectacular shows is from a boat. But these festive holiday evening displays can cause crowded, disorienting and smoky conditions on the water. If you are thinking of taking your boat out to watch the fireworks, follow these 10 tips from the Sea Tow Foundation to make sure the holiday celebration is safe for everyone.
1. Don’t Drink and Boat. Boating Under the Influence is the leading cause of all boating accidents, incidents and deaths. Always be or designate a Sober Skipper before leaving the dock. This individual will be responsible for returning the boat and its passengers safely to shore after the fireworks are over. Take the Sober Skipper Pledge.
2. Wear Your Life Jacket. Make sure everyone on board the boat is wearing a life jacket that fits them properly. Navigating at night in a crowd of other boats amid smoke from a fireworks display can be just as dangerous as boating in inclement weather or fog. Ensure the life jacket is worn over the top of any sweatshirts or jackets. If you need to borrow a life jacket, find one of our nationwide life jacket loaner stations.
3. Watch Your Weight. Don’t overload the boat with passengers. The number of seats available on board is not always the best indicator of capacity. Look for the weight capacity plate on the transom or by the helm; you can also look up the passenger capacity in the builder’s manual.
4. Navigate With Caution. Remember that visual navigation marks that you rely on during the day may be invisible at night. Chart your route to the on-water fireworks viewing zone in advance and use GPS-enabled electronics to help you find it Also, ensure your running and anchor lights are working properly.
5. Rules For Rafting-Up. If you are rafting up to other vessels to watch the fireworks, have fenders and lines ready as you approach the raft-up, and tell your passengers to keep their entire body inside the boat at all times.
6. Leave It To The Experts. Keep all store-bought fireworks at home and off the boat. Fireworks should only be lit on a flat and level surface; a boat is not stable enough because it will rock and move in the water. In addition, fiberglass is flammable, and the boat’s engine and fuel can pose a serious fire risk when sparks and open flames are present.
7. Flares Are For Emergencies Only. Never fire emergency flares in place of fireworks. They are not intended for this use and often burn hotter and faster than fireworks. It is also unlawful to make a false call for help; you could face severe fines and/or jail time.
8. Stifle The Sparks. Keep a fire extinguisher or a bucket of water handy to put out any sparks that might drift over to your boat from the fireworks display.
9. Sit Back and Relax. Don’t rush to get home; let some of the boat traffic clear out before you raise anchor.
10. Listen Up! Obey U.S. Coast Guard-designated fireworks safety zones and follow their orders or the orders of other local marine authorities – they are only out there to protect you! Details concerning the nature of the fireworks event will be published in Local Notices to Mariners and via Broadcast Notice to Mariners over VHF-FM band radio.
Do you have any other tips to add? Let us know in the comments.
If you found this article helpful or entertaining, please consider a
donation to the Sea Tow Foundation today to help us continue our efforts
to educate boaters and keep them safe on the water. You can donate
securely online at www.boatingsafety.com/donatetoday or by clicking on the DONATE tab at the top of the page.
Posted By Gail Kulp,
Tuesday, March 21, 2023
Updated: Tuesday, March 21, 2023
Spring Boating Safety Tips
Spring is here which means it is time for warmer weather, sunny skies, and fun with friends or family members on the boat! Before you pack those bags and head out on your spring boating trip, the Sea Tow Foundation has 6 tips to help you have a safe AND fun time on the water.
1.Take a Boating Safety Class Now. Many states require taking a passing a boating safety course and getting a boating license or boating certificate. Whether you’re renting a boat, recently bought a boat, or have years of boating experience, you’ll pick up some pointers and boost your marine confidence as well as satisfy requirements for boaters in Florida. And you could be eligible for a discount on your boat-owners insurance for passing a course, too. Boating safety courses are offered both online and in person through our friends with the America’s Boating Club (formerly known as the U.S. Power Squadrons) or take an interactive, online course through our friends at iLearntoBoat. You can also find other courses available through your state boating agency.
2.Ask for Advice.Spring boating trips may involve traveling to new and exciting destinations. If you are unfamiliar with the bay, lake, river or ocean you’re headed to, it’s smart to talk to the local Sea Tow captains in the area who will happily share water conditions, current patterns, routes and (bonus!) wildlife watching tips.
3.Pack the sunscreen. If you’re not used to the sun and warmer temperatures or with being outdoors for a good portion of the day, you will soon by surprised by a nasty sunburn. Put on some sunscreen and don’t forget a hat and polarized sunglasses, too.
4.Reserve now.If you are planning to rent a boat during the
spring season, make sure you’ve got the rental confirmed well in advance of
your trip and reach out to the company ahead of time to see if you need to
bring anything for the boat with you. They should provide you with an
orientation to your rental boat as well as all of the safety equipment
required. If you are taking your own boat out, make sure your boat trailer is
ready for the road with good tires, straps and chains. Plus, check that the
boat ramp is still open and that you find out where you can park your vehicle
and trailer while you’re out on the water.
5.Once you get to your trip, follow the ABCD rule.
a.Always Wear Life Jackets. Every passenger should wear a properly fitted U.S Coast Guard (USCG)-approved life jacket. And remember that adult-size life jackets aren’t meant for children. If you’ve forgotten to pack your own or need extras, you can always stop by a Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Station to borrow them for the day.
b.Bring along safety gear. Emergency preparation = peace of mind. No matter the size of your boat, these are the absolute essentials to keep on board:
Marine VHF radio
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Tool kit
Flashlight and extra batteries
Duct tape
Bucket
Waterproof whistle or horn
Lines
Emergency signaling equipment
c.Check—and Recheck—the Weather. Choppy waters can’t always be predicted. If conditions aren’t favorable, don’t chance it. There are many apps and websites that help you know the conditions before you go and to continue to check on the weather while you are out on the water.
d.Designate a Sober Skipper. Never, ever operate a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs.The wind, sun and boat vibration all contribute to increased impairment, even after a single beer. Responsible boaters carry plenty of water, non-alcoholic drinks and food on board. To learn more and Take the Pledge, check out our Sober Skipper Campaign.
6.Share Your Trip to Social.Did your spring boating trip really happen if you didn’t document it? Be sure to tag us in all your photos and adventures on all of our social media platforms: Instagram (@seatowfoundation), Facebook (@SeaTowFoundation), Twitter (@SeaTowFdn) and LinkedIn (@seatowfoundation).
Have a fantastically fun and super safe spring break!
Posted By Gail Kulp,
Friday, November 18, 2022
Updated: Wednesday, November 9, 2022
Would you ever get into a car with a drunk driver? Definitely not. But what about a boat, where the operator has had a few drinks? That’s where the lines have often become blurred.
Boating Under the Influence is a widespread issue, and it is the leading cause of all fatal boating accidents. However, BUI is not only illegal in every state, but it’s 100% preventable. Drinking and driving is taken very seriously, with people assigning designated drivers or taking an Uber when alcohol has been involved. In fact, actions like this have become second-nature for cars, but the water is a different story, and we have to do something about it.
You can be a part of changing this narrative by taking the pledge to always have a Sober Skipper behind the helm. That means pledging to either be or designate the Sober Skipper before you leave the dock. The operator of the boat will remain 100% drug and alcohol free to ensure that the boat is operated safely and everyone on board stays safe as well. Take the pledge, and help keep the water a safe and fun place for everyone.
Since the start of the Sober Skipper Campaign, more than 131,000 boaters have taken the Sober Skipper pledgeand BUI accidents have fallen from 108 deaths and 248 injuries reported in 2014 to 86 and 186, respectively in 2021.
Join the Sea Tow Foundation as we work to achieve the goal of “Heading to Zero”– that's zero BUI accidents, zero alcohol related boating deaths and zero drunk skippers behind the wheel. BUI is 100% preventable and the Sea Tow Foundation believes that BUI should nevre be the reason someone doesn't come home from a day on the water.
Spread the word about the importance of Sober Skippers by sharing this PSA video.
Posted By Gail Kulp,
Monday, August 8, 2022
Updated: Wednesday, August 3, 2022
A Q&A Session with Anheuser-Busch on the Sober Skipper Campaign
Sponsored Blog Post
The Sea Tow Foundation recently sat down with Nolan Sportelli who manages the Southeast Region for Anheuser-Busch to talk about their work with the Sea Tow Foundation, in particular the Sober Skipper Campaign this year.
Thank you for your support of the Sober Skipper Campaign! What outreach efforts have you recently done?
We launched our Michelob ULTRA boating campaign throughout the Southeast (AL, MS, GA, TN, NC, SC, FL) in March and this will continue to run until the end of the summer of 2022. With this campaign, we will be promoting safe boating & designating a Sober Skipper when enjoying yourself on the water. Our wholesaler partners have all the tools to be able to take this campaign out to market where we can really make an impact with consumers.
What is Anheuser-Busch’s philosophy on boating safety?
We always want to encourage and promote safe drinking when consumers are enjoying our products. This extends to the boating community. We know consumers are enjoying our products on the water, which is great, but with that it becomes our responsibility to educate those consumers on how to enjoy safely. And always designating a Sober Skipper is a key to making sure that they can be safe and have fun at the same time.
What resources do you currently have available for people to learn about boating safety?
We have developed a suite of assets for our wholesaler partners to be able to leverage out in market. These include the ‘Designate a Sober Skipper’ message with a QR Code that takes people to the website to Take the Pledge and have included it alongside our Michelob ULTRA branding. We’ve included this on signage, posters, banners, print & digital media, and a whole lot more!
What are your top boating safety tips for people who are looking to enjoy time on the water this summer?
If anyone in your group is consuming alcoholic beverages while boating or spending time on the water, make sure to designate a Sober Skipper who can be responsible for the boat and all of the people’s safety.
Be Prepared! Ensure you have all the proper equipment & safety gear for the type of boating activity that you’ll be enjoying. This includes life jackets.
Thank you for your time and your support of the Sober Skipper Campaign. Enjoy the rest of the summer!
Thank you for making the Sober Skipper Campaign so easy to share with our customers. The logo and QR code are very easy to add to our signage and we know it is making a difference.
As a sponsor of the Sea Tow Foundation, Anheuser-Busch has been invited to share this content with our boating safety audience. To inquire about sponsorship opportunities for your business, please contact info@boatingsafety.com.
Posted By Kim Perry,
Wednesday, January 19, 2022
Updated: Wednesday, January 19, 2022
When John and his 15-year-old grandson Beau left their home in Texas to travel to Louisiana to go fishing, they expected to land some redfish. Unfortunately, they ended up with a ticket and fine from the local marine patrol officer who explained to John that the free, online boater education class he took in Texas was not valid in Louisiana because the certificate wasn’t state-issued. Plus, Beau was too young to not have a life jacket on when the boat was in motion. The fishing trip turned out to be a lot more expensive and a lot less fun than John and Beau had planned because they didn’t know that boating laws are different in each state.
Next time, before John and Beau think about traveling out of state to boat, they will need to know and understand the laws that apply to the state they’ll be boating in. The National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) website has everything a boater would need to know about state-specific boating laws for every state and territory in the U.S.
On the NASBLA website, an informative portal can be used to quickly find state boating laws by clicking on the Boating Safety Dashboards. Each dashboard breaks down the information into categories such as Boating Education, BUI Enforcement, and Life Jackets, just to name a few. Clicking on a category will direct you to a series of interactive maps.
After clicking on “Boating Education” that will take you to a new page where you can see individual sets of data about boating education requirements for each state and territory. Using the Education Requirements – State map, clicking on your home state can tell you the following pieces of information:
Who is required to have a Boating Education Card in that state.
Whether the law applies to powerboats and what size motor or boat.
What is required for an adult visiting from another state (most states require a NASBLA-approved course)
If there is a minimum age for operating boats in the state
Whether taking a challenge exam is allowed instead of taking an approved course
And a link to the State’s Education Website is provided for additional information as well as contact information if other questions come up
Going back to the main dashboard, you can also click on the BUI Enforcement icon and, just like the Boating Education section, individual sets of data are available on the topic of Boating Under the Influence (BUI). While the penalties and punishments differ from state to state for BUI, you should know that boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal in all U.S. states and territories. And, drinking any amount of alcohol while driving a boat makes it less safe for everyone on board because of the additional stressors involved with boating such as the wind, waves, and sun. In an attempt to eliminate boating under the influence accidents and fatalities, the Sea Tow Foundation developed the Sober Skipper Campaign, which urges boat drivers to make the right choice and take the pledge to abstain from drinking alcohol and taking drugs while driving a boat to keep you and any passengers on board safe on the water.
The NASBLA Life Jackets tab provides state-specific requirements for mandated life jacket wear by age and type of boat as well as whether season wear is required. While it’s important to stay in compliance with the law, to practice safe boating, smart boaters should go beyond the legal minimums to help keep everyone aboard safer. To learn more, check out the Sea Tow Foundation’s article Top 10 Times When You Should Absolutely, Positively Wear a Life Jacket. To borrow a life jacket at one of the 933 loaner stations nationwide, visit the Sea Tow Foundation’s online Life Jacket Loaner Station map nationwide.
Understanding (and complying) with state boating laws will go a long way to ensure you’re boating lawfully and can enjoy a safe, fun, and memorable boating experience – wherever your boating destination takes you!
To continue providing blogs, please consider a donation to the Sea Tow Foundation today to help us continue our efforts to educate boaters and keep them safe on the water. You can donate securely online at www.boatingsafety.com/donatetoday or by clicking on the DONATE tab at the top of the page.
Posted By Gail Kulp,
Monday, October 25, 2021
Updated: Tuesday, October 19, 2021
While Abstaining From Alcohol is a No-Brainer, Remember to Stay Hydrated
When it comes to operating a boat safely, water should be the beverage of choice because even consuming small amounts of alcohol adds risk. Alcohol affects the body in many ways, and none of them are good when it comes to operating a boat. But forgetting to drink enough water can also have adverse consequences.
Environment
The effects of alcohol and drugs are greatly intensified by wind, vibration, the motion of the boat, noise and the sun. Alcohol is a depressant that accelerates mental and physical fatigue and can make a driver less safe as the day wears on.
Experience Level
Unlike operating an automobile — which most people do every day — the average boater only operates their boat 110 hours every year. People new to boating have been in fewer on-the-water situations and may have to think twice before performing tasks experienced boaters can do automatically. While this inexperience is magnified when consuming alcohol, no amount of experience can overcome the negative effects of drinking, which greatly reduces reaction time and situational awareness. Things can happen fast on the water and hesitation can be dangerous for all boat operators.
The 3 Detrimental Effects of Alcohol
Physical Coordination: Poor balance is one of the telltale signs of drinking that’s made worse by a constantly moving boat. Reaction time is longer, and a boat operator’s ability to perform even simple tasks can be hindered.
Vision: Drinking alcohol affects vision in many ways. Peripheral vision and depth perception are reduced. Night vision and the ability to focus are diminished. Alcohol consumption even affects the ability to distinguish between red and green markers.
The Ability to Think Clearly: The ability to make good decisions is one of the most important attributes of a safe boat operator. Alcohol consumption leads to riskier behavior that is proportional to the amount consumed.
Water as a Beverage of Choice: Dehydration can also adversely affect a boat operator’s ability to drive safely. Dehydration can cause dizziness and reduced concentration, which can have serious consequences on the water. Being out in the sun all day requires all on board to make a concerted effort to drink fluids and nothing beats water. Although sports drinks can quench thirst, many are loaded with sugar, which is not good in large quantities. Even a sedentary adult loses 2.5 quarts of water a day and the U.S. Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine recommends women should consume at least 92 ounces of water a day and men at least 120 ounces for daily maintenance. But because boaters are outdoors, these levels should be increased.
Statistics Don’t Lie: Boating Under the Influence (BUI) statistics don’t lie. Last year, there were 296 accidents where alcohol consumption was the primary cause. During those accidents, 115 people died (39%). BUI is 100% preventable. Abstaining from alcohol while operating a boat keeps those onboard and nearby safer.
You can help eliminate BUI by taking the Sea Tow Foundation's pledge to be or to designate a sober skipper before every boating trip. TheSober Skipper Campaign also has additional tools to help improve boating safety in your local area by hosting a Sober Skipper event or sharing the PSAs and videos.
To keep everyone on board safe, choosing water over beer is the right call.
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