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

1. 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.

    

2. 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.

    

3. 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. The Sober 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.

Tow Bee Boating Safety Tip: Stay Hydrated!