National Safe Boating Week is a week-long, focused event that brings awareness to safe boating before the Memorial Day weekend and the kick-off to the summer boating season.. With more people expected to hit the water in the coming weeks, it's crucial for boaters to prioritize safety and be well-prepared for their time on the water.

Boating accidents are unfortunately common, with hundreds of fatalities reported annually in the U.S. Coast Guard boating accident statistics. Many of these accidents could have been prevented with proper safety measures in place. The Sea Tow Foundation™ and Sea Tow^® are joining forces to recognize National Safe Boating Week to remind boaters to refresh their knowledge of boating safety procedures and ensure they have all necessary equipment onboard for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Whether you're packing for a day trip or setting out for a longer journey, following these National Safe Boating Week tips from Sea Tow Captains can help ensure a safer and more enjoyable boating experience:

Sea Tow and the Sea Tow Foundation encourage boaters to take advantage of the Sea Tow Foundation’s nationwide Life Jacket Loaner Program where anyone can borrow a life jacket for the day at no charge. And one final way to bring boaters some Peace of Mind™ is to get or renew your Sea Tow membership before the start of the boating season to give you the assurance of knowing Sea Tow is standing by the help when the unexpected happens.  

Presented at the 2026 Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show, the Neptune Awards represent the highest level of recognition for marketing excellence in the marine industry. This award recognizes the Foundation’s integrated campaign supporting the launch of our “Sober Skipper™: Why It Matters” video series – an initiative designed to address one of the most preventable causes of fatal boating accidents: Boating Under the Influence (BUI).

Why This Campaign Matters

Boating Under the Influence remains one of the leading contributing factors in fatal boating accidents – and it is entirely preventable.

With this in mind, the Sea Tow Foundation launched the “Sober Skipper: Why It Matters” video series to reach the demographic most at risk for BUI-related incidents: men ages 25–50 who primarily boat recreationally on weekends.

Rather than relying solely on traditional safety messaging, the campaign used authentic storytelling from respected voices within the boating community to make sober boating personal, relatable, and non-negotiable.

A Strategic, Multi-Phase Campaign

The award-winning campaign was developed and executed by OnWrd & UpWrd Marketing and Communications, under contract with the Sea Tow Foundation . It combined:

• Strategic campaign planning and message development
• National and marine trades media outreach
• Targeted influencer recruitment and coordination
• Downloadable campaign toolkits
• Phased media pitching to maximize visibility
• Coordinated digital and social amplification

By pairing traditional public relations efforts with influencer storytelling, the campaign generated:

• More than 65 media placements
• Nearly 165 million views
• Significant engagement across YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and industry channels

Each video launch followed a structured rollout plan to ensure sustained awareness across the boating season.

Watch the “Sober Skipper: Why It Matters” Series

Each video features a well-known boating influencer or professional athlete sharing their personal perspective on why designating a sober skipper is critical for safety on the water. You can check out all the videos and download the toolkit at https://www.boatingsafety.com/page/why-it-matters. 

Join the Movement

This campaign was built around the idea that safety messaging works best when it feels personal. By sharing real stories from respected voices within the boating community, we’re working to make sober boating not just a recommendation – but an expectation.

Before your next trip on the water, Take the Pledge to designate a Sober Skipper and encourage others to do the same. Together, we can move closer to a world where every boating trip ends safely.

© 2026, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”) Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI's trademarks. All rights reserved.7-060-26

Highlights of the 2025 awards include:

The Community Boating and Education Program Award is presented to a company that provides outstanding classroom, virtual, or on-water boating education, benefiting the entire boating community.

The award was presented to Freedom Boat Club for their Expanded Member Safety Training: Virtual + On-Water Orientation Program. Within 12 months of launch, the club grew its safety training by 120%, successfully reaching more members through this new hybrid training model.

An Honorable Mention was presented to Causeway Marine for partnering with Safety First Boating School to host New Jersey’s mandatory Boating Safety Certificate Courses in their showroom.

The Gear, Equipment & Accessories Manufacturer Award recognizes a company that demonstrates excellence in promoting boating safety through its products and outreach efforts.

Garmin received this year’s award for its 2025 Safe Boating Campaign, which utilized blog content, e-blasts, and presentations to promote safety messaging around National Safe Boating Week. Garmin also partnered with The Qualified Captain, Katie Sawyer, and Clay Cowart, reaching 1.7 million followers through social media giveaways and outreach.

The Marine Retailer Award honors a company that goes above and beyond to promote boating safety alongside the products and services it offers.

Strong’s Marine was honored for its Women on the Water Series, which empowered women in the boating community to feel safe and confident on the water.

The Marine Trade Association Award is given to an organization that has demonstrated outstanding leadership in promoting boating safety through education, outreach, or advocacy on behalf of the industry.

The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) received this year’s award for its 2025 Discover Boating Video Series, produced in partnership with Progressive Insurance. The campaign addressed key safety topics including kids on board, pre-season prep, float plans, life jackets, and sound signals through a highly effective multi-channel approach that included social media, email, PSAs, and more.

The Media Outlet Award recognizes a company or organization that promotes boating safety through impactful media efforts benefiting both the boating industry and boaters themselves.

Celebrating 15 years and over 780 episodes, this year’s award goes to Bob’s No Wake Zone Boating Radio Show for its long-standing commitment to boating safety. The featured episode, Revival of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary at Lake of the Ozarks, MO, reflects the show's ongoing commitment to advancing boating safety throughout the Lake of the Ozarks region.

The PR, Marketing & Advertising Agency Award celebrates a company that represents a for-profit boating industry entity or independently promotes boating safety through outstanding communications and outreach efforts.

Hammer & Nail Marketing won for its Boater Safety is Good Business campaign. By consistently incorporating boating safety content into marina newsletters and social media, the agency helped elevate key safety practices like CPR training, life jacket use, and sober boating.

The Social Media Influencer Award recognizes a company or individual whose creative and high-quality social media efforts advance boating safety awareness.

BoatClass received this award for its Organic Social Media Safety & Instruction Video Series, a collection of short, engaging videos designed to teach boating safety in a fun, digestible way. Their digital classroom continues to inspire beginner boaters and spread confidence through education.

The Top Marine Manufacturer Award, the highest distinction of the National Boating Safety Awards, recognizes a boat manufacturer that goes above and beyond in advancing boating safety.

This year’s winner, Pursuit Boats, earned top honors for its groundbreaking Confidence on the Water program. Developed in partnership with the Chapman School of Seamanship, this two-day course was designed to educate boat owners on boating safety and proper vessel handling. Every new Pursuit Boat owner and up to three additional participants can take the course free of charge with the purchase of a new vessel.

We extend our congratulations to all of the 2025 award winners. These companies are setting an example for the industry by putting safety first and finding innovative ways to reach and educate boaters.

Thank you to our 2025 National Boating Safety Awards Sponsors!

Presenting Sponsor: Suzuki Marine

Lighthouse Sponsors: Yamaha and Water Ways TV

Beacon Sponsors: Absolute Outdoors, Boat History Report, Chubb, Freedom Boat Club, Garmin, and Northpoint Commercial Finance

Flare Sponsors: Bob’s No Wake Zone Boating Radio Show, “Let’s Go Boating” Podcast, Mustang Survival, OnWrd & UpWrd, Oyster Harbor Marine, Sensar Marine, Strong’s Marine, and Waterdogged Sportfishing.

To learn more about the National Boating Safety Awards and award recipients, please visit boatingsafety.com/awards.

© 2025, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”). Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI’s trademarks. All rights reserved. 6-018-25

Ashleigh Iserman Boating Safety Foundation

For Jan Wilhite-Iserman, every life jacket loaner station is a labor of love and a tribute to her daughter, Ashleigh.

In 2004, Ashleigh tragically lost her life in a personal watercraft accident just one day before her high school graduation. That devastating loss prompted her family into action. Through their advocacy efforts, the Ashleigh Iserman Law was passed, and it enforces stronger personal watercraft safety regulations across Michigan.

Years later, Jan met Sea Tow Foundation Executive Director Gail Kulp, and immediately knew a strong connection was made.

“When I met Gail and learned about the Sea Tow Foundation’s Life Jacket Loaner Program, I knew it was exactly what we needed to carry Ashleigh’s legacy forward,” Jan said. “It was such a natural fit, to combine education, awareness, and access so no one else would experience what our family did.”

Since then, the Iserman family has turned their grief into impact. Working with the Sea Tow Foundation, the Michigan DNR, and the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, they opened three life jacket loaner stations, including one at the site of Ashleigh’s accident. Each station serves as both a practical safety tool and a heartfelt reminder of why water safety matters.

“We wanted something permanent that not only carried Ashleigh’s name but also helped prevent future tragedies,” said Jan.

Today, Jan’s mission continues to grow, not just through the life jacket stations, but through every conversation, class, and community touched by Ashleigh’s story. Her message is simple yet powerful: with education, awareness, and care, tragedies like hers can be prevented, and lives can be saved.

Hampton Rotary Club

Along New Hampshire’s seacoast, the Hampton Rotary Club is turning its service-driven mission toward keeping boaters safe. 

Their life jacket loaner station, located at the state boat ramp on Hampton Harbor, has become a trusted local resource. Thanks to its high visibility and support from state staff and harbormasters, the station operates smoothly and efficiently.

Local harbormasters and the U.S. Coast Guard have become strong allies, directing boaters without required personal flotation devices (PFDs) to the Hampton Rotary life jacket loaner station. Often saving a fun day on the water from being cut short.

“Rotary International’s core mission is about promoting health, saving lives, and serving the community,” said club member and loaner station host David Considine. “The life jacket loaner program is a practical response to that and a great example of service above self.”

Even small moments reflect the program’s impact. Visitors often leave handwritten thank-you notes — quiet reminders of how a community's shared commitment can make local waterways safer for everyone.

A Shared Mission on the Water

From the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Coast, these loaner station hosts prove how powerful local action can be. Each loaner station represents more than a piece of safety equipment, it represents community, compassion, and the shared belief that one simple choice can save a life.

The Sea Tow Foundation’s Life Jacket Loaner Program continues to grow, with over 1,300 stations nationwide and countless stories behind each one. To find a loaner station near you or to learn how to become a life jacket loaner host, visit https://www.boatingsafety.com/page/life-jacket-loaner-program

© 2025, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”). Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI’s trademarks. All rights reserved. 6-016-25

As daylight hours dwindle and temperatures dip, many boaters begin thinking about winterizing their vessels. Whether you’re ready to hang up your captain’s hat for the season or plan to stretch your time on the water a little longer, the Sea Tow Foundation^™ has your back.

For Boaters Still Enjoying the Water
If you’re not quite ready to say goodbye to the boating season, make sure you're adjusting your routines to stay safe and comfortable for the cooler months.

1. Check the Weather
Fall weather can be unpredictable, with sudden shifts in wind, temperature, and visibility. Make sure to check the latest marine weather forecasts before heading out.

2. Dress Smart
Start with a moisture-wicking base, add cozy fleece or wool for warmth, and a waterproof outer shell to block wind and spray. Don’t forget to pack a towel, extra layers for when the temperature drops, and a full change of clothes in a dry bag just in case.

Pro Tip: Cold weather affects your dexterity. Consider wearing insulated gloves that still allow you to grip the wheel, lines, and fishing gear.

3. Life Jackets on Top - Always
With bulky fall clothing, it’s critical that life jackets are worn over your layers and still fit properly. Many states even have cold-weather life jacket requirements for certain boat sizes and boaters of all ages, so be sure to know and follow the law. Need to borrow a life jacket? Visit one of our Life Jacket Loaner Stations.

4. Navigation Lights Required
With fewer daylight hours and earlier sunsets, darkness can fall quicker than you expect. Make sure your navigation lights are in working order, and carry a flashlight or headlamp as backup to stay visible and safe after dusk.

5. File a Float Plan
Let someone on land know your route, expected return time, and who’s on board. It’s an easy habit that becomes even more important in off-peak seasons when there are less people on the water.

For Boaters Ready to Winterize their Boats
If your fall plans include tucking your boat away for the season, a thorough end-of-season checklist will save you time and money come spring. Here's how to do it right:

1. Drain Water Lines and Safely Dispose of Fluids
Frozen water can wreak havoc on your engine and plumbing. Drain all onboard water systems and use marine-grade antifreeze to prevent damage. Dispose of fluids like fuel, oil, and coolant at proper collection centers. Never pour them in the waterway, down the drain or toss them in the trash. Don’t forget to inspect and reseal window seams and the boat plug, too.

Pro Tip: A trusted marine technician can do this for you if you are unsure of how to properly do it yourself. Just be sure to schedule your appointment early, spots fill up quickly as the season winds down.

2. Scrub Down
Use eco-friendly cleaners to scrub every inch of your boat, especially if it’ll be shrink-wrapped and stored. Mold and mildew can cause expensive damage and foul smells come spring.

3. Clean Life Jackets Before Storing
Before storing your life jackets for the season, clean and dry them thoroughly to prevent mildew. If you have outgrown life jackets from this past season, you can donate them to the Sea Tow Foundation’s Life Jacket Loaner Program.

4. Inspect All Safety Gear
Take stock of your safety equipment: radios, flares, extinguishers, first aid kits, and lines. Replace expired items and restock supplies now, while it’s top of mind. And don’t forget to remove valuables and electronics for safe storage during the off-season.

Bonus Tip: Sign Up for a Boating Safety Course
Fall and winter are the perfect time to brush up on your boating knowledge. Courses are offered both in person and online, and many insurance providers even offer discounts when you complete one. Understand that in many states, a boating safety certificate is now required.

No matter how you plan to spend the cooler months - soaking up those last golden days on the water or giving your boat a deep clean in preparation for spring - your efforts now will pay off later. A well-prepared boat and a well-informed crew are the keys to enjoying boating year after year.

Stay safe, have fun, and savor every moment of fall boating. We’ll see you on the water!

© 2025, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”). Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI’s trademarks. All rights reserved. 6-015-25

Photo provided courtesy of Howard County Department of Recreation & Parks

On a calm afternoon at Centennial Lake in Ellicott City, MD, a woman suffered a medical emergency, collapsed, and fell face-down into the water from her kayak. Her friend began shouting for help, and because of the quick thinking of a nearby park visitor and the presence of a Sea Tow Foundation™ Life Jacket Loaner Station, the day ended with a successful rescue.

Matt Medicus, the Adventure, Nature & Outdoor Manager for Howard County Department of Recreation & Parks shared how the life-saving rescue unfolded. A park patron was teaching his nephew how to fish nearby and he heard someone call for help. Without hesitation, he immediately grabbed a life jacket from the nearby loaner stand for himself and swam out to help. He was ready to act and knew he had the tools to assist. Most importantly, he knew that a life jacket can make all the difference for both rescuers and those in distress. Soon after, staff members from the nearby boat rental arrived by boat and helped quickly bring the distressed woman back to shore.

The Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Stand has been at Centennial Lake for a decade.

“We applied for the Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Program 10 years ago. Then again two years later to expand. Today we have about 15 life jackets in all sizes. It’s been huge,” Matt said.

When the station was first installed, someone in the office warned Matt that the jackets might be stolen. His response? “That means they’re being used.” Of course, he hoped they wouldn’t disappear, but if they helped someone stay safe or give a second thought to boating preparedness, they were serving their purpose.

The woman rescued that day was an experienced boater  and was also trained as a lifeguard. She was comfortable on the water and was even wearing a life jacket; she was doing everything right. But even the most seasoned boaters and swimmers can face sudden, unexpected medical emergencies. “She told me the next day, she thought she’d done everything she was supposed to do,” Matt recalled. “And she had. That life jacket saved her life because it helped her rescuers.” Thanks to the quick response of the team and her own preparation, she was released from the hospital and is on the mend.

For Matt, the rescue at Centennial Lake isn’t just a reminder of how quickly things can go wrong, it’s a powerful example of how much can go right when the right tools are in place. His team always wears inflatable life jackets when on the water, and he emphasizes that safety isn’t just about how strong a swimmer you are. “You can’t swim if you’re unconscious,” he says.

Matt believes every public boat launch should have a Life Jacket Loaner Station. “The [Sea Tow Foundation’s] Life Jacket Loaner Program is easy to apply for,” he added. “Don’t waste time. It could save a life.”

© 2025, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”). Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI’s trademarks. All rights reserved. 6-014-25

Bullitage Media Inc. won the 2024 National Boating Safety Award in the category of Top Marine Media Outlet for their Water Ways TV.

Image provided courtesy of Water Ways TV

     1. Please briefly describe your winning entry and tell us about the process of creating/launching it.

Water Ways TV was born from past experiences co-hosting and producing Power-Boat Television from 2014-2019 and my work as a broadcast journalist with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). The new Water Ways TV show, which was launched in 2022 after the closure of PowerBoat TV productions, included safety messages from day one in recurring “60 seconds of safety” segments. Thus far, 31 full-length episodes have been created and we’re expanding rapidly in 2025!

     2. What inspired your company to promote boating safety?

The pilot episodes of Water Ways TV were achieved by calling in favors from friends and family for boat access or interviews, such as with Sgt. Dave Moffatt, the coordinator of the massive Ontario Provincial Police Marine Unit (170 vessels patrolling more than 200,000 lakes!). Audience testing found the boating public loved the messages and tips delivered in a fun and authentic way, not a lecture from authorities or a sales pitch from a manufacturer. We’ve leaned into the safety element and have since shot segments aboard an active Canadian Navy vessel (HMCS Harry DeWolf) and am in talks with the United States Coast Guard to highlight their efforts and the variety of marine-focused careers on the show.

     3. What does winning this award mean for your company?

Winning the National Safe Boating Award was like pouring fuel on the fire. We had begun finding organic and rapid growth as we pushed our online presence into the United States, and to be recognized after our first “full” season – including 13 embedded but entertaining safety segments – meant a lot as many of the big players took note. They are key partners for success in the media world. It gave us third party endorsement of our mission which is to be the most trusted source for recreational boaters and the first thought for fun on the water. Not to mention it meant a whole heck of a lot to our small but mighty team!

     4. What was a key takeaway you received because of working on this project or campaign?

It was surprising that people are interested in safety. Only, they are human and get bored or distracted and certainly don’t like being lectured to. But they want to keep their kids and spouses and friends alive while having fun. So have fun where appropriate, and always focus on the story first. If you keep people entertained, you keep their attention. And you need their attention to deliver a message.

© 2025, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”). Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI’s trademarks. All rights reserved. 5-018-25

Bayliner Boats won the 2024 National Boating Safety Award in the category of Top Marine Manufacturer.

Photo courtesy of Bayliner Boats

     1. Please briefly describe your winning entry and tell us about the process of creating/launching it.

The Bayliner Boats National Safe Boating Week Daily Safety Tips campaign was a social media-driven initiative to raise awareness about boating safety. In collaboration with Captain Scott from the South Florida Freedom Boat Club, we created and shared daily safety tips through engaging videos across our social media channels. These tips covered essential topics such as safe anchoring, key safety accessories, and best practices for beaching and docking and the tips ran on platforms like Instagram. The campaign ran for a full week, from May 18–24, 2024 and also included a supporting blog on our website and targeted email outreach to engage with our community.

     2. What does winning this award mean for your company? If your company has won more than once, does that change anything?

Winning this award is a tremendous honor for Bayliner Boats, and it reinforces our dedication to promoting boating safety. It validates the effort we put into creating meaningful, impactful campaigns that resonate with boaters. As we continue to innovate in this space, the recognition boosts our motivation to keep delivering quality content and initiatives that foster a safer, more enjoyable boating experience for all.

     3. What was a key takeaway you received because of working on this project or campaign?

A key takeaway from the campaign was the immense power of social media as a tool for engaging with our audience about safety. The response to the daily safety tips far exceeded our expectations, demonstrating that boaters are eager to learn more about how to stay safe on the water. It also highlighted the importance of making safety tips accessible, digestible, and relevant. The more we can connect with boaters in a direct, personal way, the more effective our messaging will be.

     4. Is your company working on a new boating safety project or campaign to debut in 2025? If so, can you share any of the details?

Yes! Bayliner is already planning new initiatives for 2025 that will continue to focus on promoting safe boating practices. We are excited to explore interactive content and new digital tools to make safety education even more engaging for boaters.

© 2025, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”). Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI’s trademarks. All rights reserved. 5-018-25

As we head into the peak of summer boating season, the Sea Tow Foundation™ is here to help you stay safe, cool and keep the fun going all season long. Whether you’re planning a long day of cruising or enjoying watersports with friends, these 7 essential hot-weather boating safety tips will help you beat the heat—without losing sight of what matters most: getting home safely.

1. Hydrate Early and Often
High heat and humidity can quickly lead to dehydration, especially when you’re out on the water where sun exposure intensifies. Always pack plenty of water and electrolyte-rich drinks and remind everyone to sip regularly. Skip sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic beverages to help your body retain fluids.

Pro Tip: Assign a member of your crew to be your hydration point person—refilling bottles, checking coolers and keeping everyone to task throughout the day.

2. Don’t Let the Sun Steer the Day
Long days in the sun can bring serious risks, including sunburn, heat exhaustion and even heatstroke. Create shady areas using a bimini top, bring wide-brimmed hats and wear UV-protective clothing. Make sure to reapply sunscreen often—especially after swimming.

If you’re bringing your furry friends along, make sure they have enough water, non-slip footing on deck, and a shady spot to rest and stay cool.

3. Life Jackets Still Matter in the Heat
We know it’s hot, but ditching your life jacket because it’s “too warm” is a dangerous choice. Accidents happen fast, and high temps can lead to fatigue, dizziness or falls overboard. A properly fitted, lightweight life jacket can make all the difference, and thanks to the Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Program thousands of stations across the country have free life jackets available to borrow.

Click here to find a loaner station near you and get great information on how to properly fit a life jacket:

4. Pack for Emergencies—Not Just Snacks
In extreme heat, even a minor issue like a drained battery or overheated engine can turn into a major problem. Be sure to check your gear including batteries, electronics, flares and radios are in working order before you leave the dock. Always carry the following:

• A well-stocked, waterproof first-aid kit
• VHF radio and backup charging source
• Extra drinking water and food
• Emergency shade (tarp, towel, or canopy)
• Layers and blankets in case the weather turns

Make sure your Sea Tow^® membership is active before heading out because no one plans on for the unexpected to happen.

5. Designate a Sober Skipper—Every Time
Heat and alcohol are a risky mix. Combine that with the sun’s intensity and the effects of motion on the water, and even one drink can severely impair balance, judgment and reaction time. Our goal at the Sea Tow Foundation is to eliminate Boating Under the Influence (BUI) by encouraging all boaters to take the pledge to be or to designate a sober skipper before leaving the dock.

Don’t miss our “Sober Skipper: Why It Matters” video series featuring athletes, anglers and everyday boaters sharing why this message is personal. Watch it here.

6. Watch for Signs of Heat-Related Illness
Be alert for symptoms like dizziness, nausea, fainting or rapid breathing. If someone shows any of these signs, act quickly: move them to a shaded area, cool them with wet towels, and hydrate slowly. If symptoms are severe or worsen, call for medical assistance right away.

7. Model Smart Boating for the Whole Family
The best way to teach safe boating is to lead by example. Show your family how it’s done by:

• Wearing your life jacket
• Staying sober at the helm
• Following all navigation rules
• Making safety a prioritywith every trip

Creating a plan the whole family understands makes boating safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

Boating Can Be Safe and Fun
At the Sea Tow Foundation, we believe that a good day on the water means coming back safe, smiling, and ready to do it again. With a little planning, you can enjoy everything summer has to offer.

BoatClass won the 2024 National Boating Safety Award in two categories: the category of Top Social Media Influencer and Top Community Boating Education Program.

Photo Courtesy of BoatClass

     1. Please briefly describe your winning entries and tell us about the process of creating/launching it.

BoatClass Organic Social Media Boating Safety & Instruction Campaign is a dynamic initiative that leverages short-form video content to educate new and experienced boaters about essential boating safety and skills. The campaign is promoted organically on platforms like Instagram and Facebook Reels, featuring engaging and digestible tutorials. Planning for this project was extensive: we aligned content with the peak boating season (May through October) to ensure it was timely and relevant. The videos were designed to be both informative and entertaining, and the efforts were fully organic, without paid advertising. The inclusion of Captain Travis, our spokesperson, further ensured that the content was both relatable and instructional, while partnerships with organizations like Freedom Boat Club and the National Safe Boating Council bolstered the campaign’s reach.

     2. What inspired your company to promote boating safety? Was this the first time doing so or have there been previous boating safety promotions?

Boating safety is at the heart of BoatClass's mission to equip new boaters with the confidence and skills to navigate the waterways safely. Our commitment to safety isn’t new—we’ve been promoting boating safety through in-person, on-water training for years. However, we wanted to expand our reach by creating an easily accessible, digital-first campaign to engage a broader audience. The shift to social media, especially short-form video, was a strategic response to the growing consumption of video content online, ensuring we meet boaters where they are.

     3. What partnerships, media coverage and/or opportunities have you received because of winning this award?

Our award recognition has elevated our visibility and led to valuable conversations with potential new partners. These new relationships will enable us to amplify our message, allowing us to reach a wider, more diverse audience with our safety message.

     4. Is your company working on a new boating safety project or campaign to debut in 2025? If so, can you share any of the details?

Yes! We’re excited about our upcoming plans to expand our training locations and further refine our social media strategy to continue promoting boating safety in 2025. We’re exploring more in-depth partnerships and focusing on enhancing our digital presence. One key aspect we’re working on is developing a comprehensive series of “Boating Safety 101” tutorials, designed to support first-time boaters. Additionally, we’ll be focusing on seasonal safety tips and continuing collaborations with our partner organizations to reach even more boaters.

© 2025, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”). Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI’s trademarks. All rights reserved. 5-018-25

Freedom Boat Club won the 2024 National Boating Safety Award in the category of Top Marine Business.

Photo provided courtesy of Freedom Boat Club.

     1. Please briefly describe your winning entry and tell us about the process of creating/launching it.

Freedom Boat Club's winning entry for the National Boating Safety Award involved a comprehensive, year-round approach to promoting boating safety through training, outreach, and community engagement. The project included the development of educational materials, safety protocols, and hands-on training for both new and experienced boaters. With more than 400 locations and 100,000+ members globally, we are proud of our ability to scale our access to training and resources. We continue to lead the Club with a safety-first culture. Our goal is to ensure each member feels comfortable and confident at the helm to maximize their time on the water.

     2. What does winning this award mean for your company?

Winning the National Boating Safety Award is a tremendous honor and a validation of our dedication to boating safety. It reinforces our commitment to ensuring that our members are equipped with the knowledge and tools to boat responsibly. While we’ve always prided ourselves on our focus on safety, receiving this recognition serves as a reminder that our efforts are making a positive impact on the boating community.

     3. What partnerships, media coverage and/or opportunities have you received because of winning this award?

Winning this prestigious award has provided several opportunities for collaboration and exposure. We’ve strengthened our partnerships with safety organizations, local boating communities, and other industry leaders. Media coverage has allowed us to expand our message of boating safety to a wider audience, and the recognition has prompted more boaters to seek out Freedom Boat Club as a trusted resource for safe and enjoyable boating experiences. Our commitment to safety has long involved working with others since this is not our first boating safety initiative; we have consistently promoted safety through programs like our three core boater safety courses, which are all National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) verified courses plus our on-going partnership with the Sea Tow Foundation to promote the Sober Skipper™ program. Our work with other partners is part of an ongoing effort to make boating as safe as it is enjoyable.

     4. What was a key takeaway you received because of working on this project or campaign?

A key takeaway from working on this initiative has been the reinforcement across our Club that boating safety requires a continual, collective effort. While training and education are fundamental, safety on the water is also about creating a culture where every boater feels empowered to make responsible decisions.

© 2025, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”). Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI’s trademarks. All rights reserved. 5-018-25

Thomas brings a unique perspective to the campaign as both an athlete and a lifelong water sports enthusiast. In the video, he shares why designating a Sober Skipper is essential—not just for the safety of those on board and on the water, but to support his focus and performance behind the boat. His story emphasizes that making smart choices on the water is a core part of taking the sport safely and seriously.

The Sober Skipper: Why It Matters video series is part of a national campaign to eliminate Boating Under the Influence (BUI) by amplifying real voices from the boating community. Each video highlights the role that individual responsibility, preparation and awareness play in preventing accidents. The campaign is especially focused on reaching men ages 24–50, those most at risk for BUI-related incidents according to U.S. Coast Guard data.

As more boaters hit the water this summer, the Sea Tow Foundation™ encourages everyone to revisit the basics: check your gear, wear a properly fitting life jacket and always have a designated Sober Skipper at the helm.

Click here to watch the Sober Skipper: Why It Matters video series: https://www.boatingsafety.com/page/Why-It-Matters

Garmin won the 2024 National Boating Safety Award in the category of Top Marine Gear & Equipment Manufacturer.

Photo used with permission from Garmin.

     1. Please briefly describe your winning entry and tell us about the process of creating/launching it.

Garmin received a 2024 National Boating Safety Award from the Sea Tow Foundation for its work done to help educate customers and the public about the importance of having the right tools, equipment and knowledge to stay safe on the water. We strive to prioritize safe boating content year-round and typically begin mapping out what the content will be and when it will go out at the start of each year.

     2. What inspired your company to promote boating safety?

At Garmin, our mission is to create products that are an essential part of our customers’ lives, and we know many of our customers spend time on the water boating and fishing. Having innovative, quality and easy-to-use electronics can make the difference between a good and bad day on the water – and we take great pride in creating products that can help our customers safely make the most of their time on the water. 

     3. What was a key takeaway you received because of working on this project or campaign?

Based on our annual inReach SOS data*, we know that boating continues to be one of the top five activities people are doing when they trigger an inReach SOS. This reaffirms why it’s so important to get out the message of safe boating – hopefully seeing our safety-related content will help customers think twice about making sure they’re prepared before they leave the dock.

*This was true for 2023, but 2024 data has not yet been made available publicly.

     4. What does winning this award mean for your company? If your company has won more than once, does that change anything?

We are honored to receive a National Boating Safety Award for the fourth year in a row. This award is a testament to Garmin’s commitment to creating products that can support safe and responsible boating practices for our customers. We look forward to continuing to provide products and resources to foster a stronger, smarter community of boaters, anglers and sailors alike, and we thank the Sea Tow Foundation for this recognition.

© 2025, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”). Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI’s trademarks. All rights reserved. 5-018-25

The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) won the 2024 National Boating Safety Award in the category of Top Trade Association.

Photo provided courtesy of NMMA.

     1. Please briefly describe your winning entry and tell us about the process of creating/launching it.

The NMMA was honored with a National Boating Safety Award for our 2024 Top Safe Boating Tips video series. Created in partnership with Progressive® Insurance, the video series included five episodes offering essential safety advice on boating with pets, refueling, trailering, safe seating and swimming near boats, and proper navigation light usage.

Filmed during the summer of 2023, the videos were strategically rolled out between March and July, leading up to and during peak boating months when safety is a top priority. After launching on the Discover Boating YouTube channel, the videos were promoted extensively across social media, our website, and email campaigns. Additionally, footage from the series was incorporated into our public service announcement (PSA) campaign to further amplify the message.

     2. What inspired your company to promote boating safety?

This marks Discover Boating’s third boating safety video campaign, reinforcing the NMMA’s commitment to making safe boating practices a top priority. These videos aim to educate both new and experienced boaters on essential safety knowledge. Previous campaigns have covered key topics such as safety tips for boat captains, watersport safety, and celebrating responsibly on the water.

     3. What was a key takeaway you received because of working on this project or campaign?

One of the videos in this safety series focused on boating with pets and it became our highest-performing safety video ever on YouTube. Our second most-viewed video, from last year’s campaign, highlights tips for celebrating safely on the water. The strong engagement with these videos underscores the desire of boaters to safely and confidently enjoy the water with their loved ones, including their furry first mates—while prioritizing safety. Providing approachable, helpful safety content is clearly a valued resource, and we’re committed to continue creating content that resonates with all boating audiences.

     4. Is your company working on a new boating safety project or campaign to debut in 2025? If so, can you share any of the details?

NMMA is excited to debut a new boating safety video series in 2025. We look forward to continuing our mission of educating both new and seasoned boaters on essential safety tips. As with previous series, these videos will be shared across our YouTube channel, website, social media, and other platforms to reach and engage a wide audience.

© 2025, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”). Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI’s trademarks. All rights reserved. 5-018-25

Whitman Marine Training won the 2024 National Boating Safety Award in the category of Top Community Boating Education Program.

      1. Please briefly describe your winning entry and tell us about the process of creating/launching it.

Whitman Marine Training was established in 2007 by Captain Paul Whitman to deliver boats and yachts throughout the Northeast. We hosted our first boating safety class on March 2, 2019, which was the largest in-person boating safety class hosted in New Jersey in all of 2019. The global pandemic forced us to create a new way to certify New Jersey boaters, and we were approved to proctor online tests. Today, we offer a variety of boating safety courses, boat tours, and on-the-water training modules along the Delaware River in New Jersey. Our courses are designed to meet New Jersey's boating safety requirements and go beyond, providing comprehensive training for individuals aged 13 and above.

       2. What inspired your company to promote boating safety? Was this the first time doing so or have there been previous boating safety promotions?

Captain Paul's inspiration for promoting boating safety stemmed from his lifelong passion for boating and a desire to fill a gap in comprehensive boating training. His previous boating safety work included assisting boaters at Farley Marina as a teenager and teaching public boating safety classes with the USCG Auxiliary. These events fueled his commitment to improving boating safety education, but he also saw the need for a more engaging and interactive approach to teaching boating safety, which led to the creation of Whitman Marine Training.

      3. What does winning this award mean for your company?

Winning this award proves that the hard work I have done, and continue to do, shows that Whitman Marine Training can compete, not only with our counterparts throughout the state, but also on the national stage.

       4. Is your company working on a new boating safety project or campaign to debut in 2025? If so, can you share any of the details?

We are currently working on a couple of new items for 2025 that includes a series of boat ramp instructional videos as well as developing online webinars on a variety of boating-related topics.

© 2025, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”). Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI’s trademarks. All rights reserved. 5-018-25

The Captain

The Captain holds the ultimate responsibility for the operation and safety of the vessel and passengers. This role includes conducting pre-departure safety checks, ensuring the use of the engine cut-off switch, and checking batteries and other essential equipment before venturing out. The Captain also agrees to be the Sober Skipper^TM, ensuring that everyone on board understands and follows safety protocols such as maintaining three points of contact or staying seated while underway, and positioning children in the safest spots on the boat.

The Life Jacket Posse

Critical to ensuring the safety of all passengers, the Life Jacket Posse is in charge of distributing and fitting life jackets for everyone on board before departure. They make sure that each person’s life jacket fits properly and is worn correctly throughout the trip, ready to provide instructions and assistance as needed.

The Beverage Crew

Tasked with hydration and refreshments, the Beverage Crew plays a pivotal role in promoting responsible drinking by helping to designate a Sober Skipper and ensuring that the captain remains alcohol-free throughout the voyage. Their role is crucial in managing the beverage supply and making sure that alcohol consumption does not compromise the safety of the excursion.

The Fun Squad

Responsible for keeping the mood light and enjoyable, the Fun Squad organizes onboard entertainment and activities, especially for the children. They carefully store fishing equipment and other gear, ensuring it remains both secure and easily accessible without posing any hazards. Through their proactive preparation and attention to detail, they create an environment where everyone can relax, have fun, and feel safe.

The Anchor Team

Whether led by the captain or a designated crew member, the Anchor Team is responsible for managing the anchor. This includes calculating the correct scope, ensuring the appropriate amount of line is deployed, and hauling the anchor at the end of the day. Their attention to detail guarantees that the boat is securely anchored and remains in a safe position.

The Lookout

The Lookout plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of watersports activities like wakeboarding and tubing. Tasked with keeping a vigilant eye on the surroundings, they watch for other watercrafts, swimmers and potential hazards in the water. Their primary responsibility is to alert the captain of any impending dangers or obstacles that could interfere with safe towing activities.

The Docking Mates

This team takes charge as the boat approaches and leaves the dock. Their Docking Mates responsibilities include preparing docking lines and fenders, securing the lines to the dock cleats and pilings or removing them upon leaving, ensuring that docking maneuvers are carried out safely and communicating with the captain to assist in smooth docking operations.

The Clean-up Gang

After a day of fun on the water, the Clean-up Gang helps to ensure that the boat is left in good condition. This includes organizing and storing gear, disposing of any trash, and tidying up the vessel to keep it clean and ready for the next adventure.

All Roles Matter

Each role on a boat is vital to the safety and enjoyment of your water excursion. By understanding and embracing these responsibilities, every crew member contributes to a safer, smoother sailing experience. Remember, a successful day at sea is a team effort, and knowing your role is the first step toward ensuring everyone has a great time on the water.

At the Sea Tow Foundation™, we believe that every day on the water should be a safe one. That’s why we’re excited to share the next installment in our "Sober Skipper™: Why It Matters" video series, featuring professional bass angler Mike Iaconelli. As a widely recognized figure in competitive fishing, Mike knows that boating safety isn’t just about following the rules—it’s about making the right choices before ever leaving the dock.

In "Sober Skipper: Why It Matters to Mike Iaconelli," he shares his perspective on why designating a Sober Skipper is essential for every fishing trip. Whether you’re a tournament angler or a weekend hobbyist, being responsible, and staying sober at the helm, can mean the difference between a great day of fishing and a tragic accident. Mike emphasizes that just like responsible driving, responsible boating requires focus, awareness and a clear mind.

With this video series, the Sea Tow Foundation continues to highlight the importance of eliminating Boating Under the Influence (BUI). While BUI is one of the leading causes of fatal boating accidents, it is 100% preventable—and through stories like Mike’s, we’re working to change perceptions about alcohol consumption on the water.

The Sea Tow Foundation is proud to work with fishing pros, wakeboarders and boating enthusiasts who are committed to safety. Each video in this series serves as a powerful reminder that being a Sober Skipper isn’t just about protecting yourself, it’s about looking out for your friends, family and everyone else on the water.

Join us in watching "Sober Skipper: Why It Matters to Mike Iaconelli" and help us spread the word. Together, we can make our waterways safer for everyone.

The new year brings new boating safety laws to many locations. Whether you’re an experienced captain or a newcomer to the water, it’s important to stay updated on state laws and requirements. The Sea Tow Foundation™ has captured all of the details here. 

New York Boaters: 2025 Boating Safety Requirement

Starting January 1, 2025, all motorboat operators in New York, regardless of age, must hold a boating safety certificate. This mandate is part of Brianna’s Law, named in memory of Brianna Lieneck, an 11-year-old Long Island girl who tragically lost her life in a boating accident in 2005.

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, boating fatalities significantly decrease when operators complete a certified boating safety course. While the law was phased in over five years, it now requires all motorboat operators to complete a safety course—available both online and in person—to ensure safer waterways for everyone. New York boaters can fulfill this requirement by taking a NASBLA-approved course, such as the interactive online one available at iLearnToBoat.com. 

Massachusetts Hanson-Milone Act: A New Era in Boating Safety

Massachusetts passed the Hanson-Milone Act mandating that all boat operators in the Commonwealth pass a boater safety test and obtain a boater safety certificate.

The timeline for implementation includes:

• Guidance published by October 1, 2025.

• Certificates required by April 1, 2026, for those born after January 1, 1989.

• Full compliance for all operators by April 1, 2028.

This law was named in honor of David Hanson, who tragically lost his life in a boating accident in 2010, and Paul Milone, a dedicated harbormaster and boating safety advocate. 

California Boating Safety Law: 2025 Boater Card Requirement

Starting January 1, 2025, all boaters operating motorized vessels on California waterways, regardless of age, will be required to carry a California Boater Card. This card serves as proof of completing a NASBLA-approved boating safety course.

For more information on obtaining your California Boater Card, visit California’s Division of Boating and Waterways or CaliforniaBoaterCard.com.

New Mexico Boating Safety Law: Life Jacket Requirements

Beginning January 1, 2025, New Mexico implemented new boating safety rules to improve safety on the water. Any individual using a human-powered watercraft or participating in a boat race must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

Stay Current on the Boating Laws in Your State

Laws and requirements vary by state and frequently change. You can regularly check your state’s boating regulations and use resources at NASBLA.org to stay informed.

Make 2025 a year of safer boating experiences. 

© 2025, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”). Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI’s trademarks. All rights reserved.6-023-25

At the Sea Tow Foundation™, we're dedicated to ensuring that every boating trip is as safe as possible. That’s why we're thrilled to announce our new video series, "Sober Skipper™: Why it Matters." This initiative plays a crucial role in our efforts to prevent Boating Under the Influence (BUI), emphasizing the importance of designating a Sober Skipper for every boating trip through the video series.

The premiere episode, "Sober Skipper: Why it Matters to Life by the Bow," features boating influencers Clay and Stephanie Cowart from Life by the Bow, an online channel focused on boating, travel, lifestyle and safety content. This video highlights their deep love for boating and the importance of the Sober Skipper message in protecting families and ensuring a safe and enjoyable time on the water. Through their story, they emphasize how one decision can impact the safety and well-being of all boaters.

With the launch of the series, the Sea Tow Foundation is raising awareness about the importance of designating a Sober Skipper through the voices of wakeboarding enthusiasts, seasoned anglers, and other members of the boating community. Each video brings to life the stories of individuals who prioritize boating safety to ensure that time spent on the water doesn’t turn into a tragedy.

Boating Under the Influence is the leading cause of fatal boating accidents and is entirely preventable, making this campaign especially crucial. Targeted toward boaters, the series tackles the urgent need to shift behaviors and perceptions surrounding alcohol consumption on the water.

Join us in watching "Sober Skipper: Why it Matters to Life by the Bow" and stay tuned for more videos in this series. Together, we can spread the message that being a Sober Skipper is not just a personal choice—it’s a responsibility to the entire boating community.

Take the Sober Skipper pledge today.

© 2025, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”). Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI’s trademarks. All rights reserved.3-022-25

Last month, the spotlight was on boating safety at the International BoatBuilders' Exhibition & Conference (IBEX) in Florida as we announced the winners of the 2024 National Boating Safety Awards. The Sea Tow Foundation™, alongside our Boating Safety Advisory Council, recognized companies for their exceptional efforts in promoting safe practices on the water. These organizations, from manufacturers to media outlets, have shown a commitment to spreading life-saving messages and encouraging responsible boating behavior.

Now in its sixth year, the National Boating Safety Awards continue to honor innovative campaigns across the marine industry. This year’s winners stood out for their ability to engage diverse audiences through creative and impactful campaigns.

Let’s take a closer look at the standout efforts that earned these industry leaders their well-deserved recognition:

Marine Manufacturer Award: Bayliner Boats

Bayliner Boats earned the Marine Manufacturer Award for their National Safe Boating Week Daily Safety Tips campaign. Through a combination of engaging videos and social media posts, Bayliner illustrated their dedication to promoting safe boating practices. Their partnership with Freedom Boat Club during National Safe Boating Week helped amplify their safety message.

Yamaha received an Honorable Mention for their National Safe Boating Week Campaign featuring safety ambassador Hunter Bland.

Gear & Equipment Manufacturer Award: Garmin

Garmin earned the Gear & Equipment Manufacturer Award for their 2024 Safe Boating Campaign. They partnered with The Qualified Captain during National Safe Boating Week to extend their year-round efforts of promoting safe boating practices, ensuring that both new and experienced boaters are better equipped to stay safe on the water.

Marine Trade Assocaition Award: National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA)

The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) won the Marine Trade Association Award for their Discover Boating Top Safe Boating Tips video series in partnership with Progressive. By utilizing platforms such as YouTube, social media and email, NMMA successfullly reached millions of boaters across the country. Their freely available materials allowed other organization to share these critical safety messages, furter extending the campaign's reach.

The Marine Industrires Association of Southewest Florida (MIASF) earned an Honorable Mention for their "Know Before You Go" campaign.

Social Media Influencer Award: BoatClass

BoatClass won the Social Media Influencer Award for their Organic Social Media Boating Safety & Instruction Campaign. Using short-form reels, BoatClass created engaging, safety-focused content and built effective partnerships with other marine industry companies. Their strategy sparked high viewer engagement, with audiences actively participating in discussions around alternative safety practices.

Marine Business - General Award: Freedom Boat Club

The Marine Business - General Award was given to Freedom Boat Club for their New Member Safety Orientation and Comprehensive Training Program. Combining face-to-face orientations, dock briefings and digital tools, Freedom Boat Club provided essential safety instruction to boaters, emphasizing the importance of proper training and safe boat operation.

Community Boating Education Award: BoatClass & Whitman Marine Training

This year’s Community Boating Education Award resulted in a tie. BoatClass was recognized for their on-water training program, which offered comprehensive instruction to new and experienced boaters through partnerships with key industry players such as NASBLA and Freedom Boat Club.

Whitman Marine Training stood out for their extensive community outreach and training programs, combining classroom instruction, on-water training modules and partnerships with local marinas to effectively teach boating safety to their community.

The 2024 National Boating Safety Award winners have made an incredible impact in advancing safety on the water. By encouraging responsible boating and raising awareness through creative campaigns, these companies continue to make a difference in the industry and within their communities.

Thank you to everyone who participated – we are already looking forward to next year’s awards! For more information on this year’s winners and next year’s application, visit https://www.boatingsafety.com/page/Awards

©2024, Sea Tow Services International, Inc. (“STSI”). Subject to Sea Tow Foundation’s licensed use of STSI’s trademarks. All rights reserved. 5-031-24

Yamaha won the 2023 National Boating Safety Award in the category of Top Marine Manufacturer.

1. Please briefly describe your winning entry and tell us about the process of creating/launching it.
   
   Yamaha worked with Yamaha Professional Angler and Safety Ambassador, Hunter Bland, to create a 12-month safety campaign. The team worked on the project throughout the year and collaborated to create monthly blog posts and/or videos to advocate for safe boating practices.
   
   
2. What inspired your company to promote boating safety?
   
   As a leader in the marine industry, Yamaha takes boating safety very seriously. We believe it is in the best interest of all boaters to be aware of and to practice safe boating at all times. This campaign allowed for the opportunity to help educate boaters on how to keep themselves, their family, their friends and fellow boaters safe.
   
   
3. What partnerships, media coverage and/or opportunities have you received as a result of winning the award?
   
   Yamaha Safety Ambassador, Hunter Bland, continues to grow as a leading voice in boating safety. The Yamaha safety campaign, along with his unique story and passion for other boaters to be safe on the water has resulted in Hunter speaking at numerous events and his continued work with other boating safety organizations.
   
   
4. What was a key takeaway you received as a result of working on this project or campaign?
   
   The key takeaway is that there is still a lot of work to be done but it’s refreshing to see how receptive boaters are to the message.
   
   
   

The Water Sports Industry Association (WSIA) won the 2023 National Boating Safety Award in the category of Top Marine Trades Association.

1. Please briefly describe your winning entry and tell us about the process of creating/launching it.

Our entry was about our Wake Responsibly campaign that has long been an effective way to educate homeowners and boaters alike on courteous behavior on the water. The campaign recently underwent a rebrand to reflect our new legislative push featuring events in communities having waterway access issues. These community events are incredibly unique to the industry. The campaign is expansive and is comprised of a variety of resources including hang tags, metal boat ramp signs, downloadable graphics, print and digital ads, its own website, a compliance exam and more. There has been considerable effort in building this campaign to be one of the most respected educational campaigns in the industry.

2. What inspired your company to promote boating safety? Was this the first time doing so or has there been previous boating safety promotions?

Promoting boating safety is key to promoting and protecting our industry. Not only does boating safety support growth within the industry by cultivating a culture of responsibility and trust, but it can also lead to increased participation in our activities. We are enthusiastic about sharing our love of towed watersports and believe the best way to share that passion is by fostering a sense of confidence in recreational boaters. For the sustainability and success of our industry, we all must do our part to encourage safe and responsible boating practices on all waterways.

3. What partnerships, media coverage and/or opportunities have you received as a result of winning the award?

Since earning the Sea Tow Foundation’s award, we have seen an uptick in interest in our Wake Responsibly materials and events. The award reinvigorated communities to continue empowering excellence in towed water sports with advocacy, education, safety, and community. It is endearing to see just how impactful this campaign has become, and we are committed to continuing this level of excellence into the future.

4. What was a key takeaway you received as a result of working on this project or campaign?

Our key takeaway from the Wake Responsibly campaign is that collaboration is key. We are much more effective when we come together to foster peaceful environments on all our waterways. Our campaign relies on community connection and when we all do our part, we know we can protect the watersports we know and love. The watersports community is extraordinarily passionate, and we have loved seeing Wake Responsibly be a vehicle for which that passion thrives. 

The Sea Tow Foundation is showcasing the winners of the 2023 National Boating Safety Awards via individualized blog posts that answer specific questions posted to each winning company.

Boating Magazine, which is owned by Firecrown Media, won the 2023 National Boating Safety Award in the category of Top Marine Media Outlet.

1. Please briefly describe your winning entry and tell us about the process of creating/launching it. Did it take a lot of planning or was it something that came together fairly quickly?
   
   

The video “Penny Wise, Lifetime Foolish” was an effort to dramatize a very real shortcoming among new boaters in terms of boating safety. It springs naturally from parents’ understanding that kids grow quickly and buying clothes that are much too large is a common practice to optimize the expenditure. But, in boating, a life jacket that doesn’t fit, doesn’t do the job it was designed for and the money is wasted. As a result, children’s lives can be in danger.

2. What inspired your company to promote boating safety? Was this the first time doing so or has there been previous boating safety promotions?

Boating Magazine and its sister publications, Yachting, Cruising World, Sailing World and Saltwater Sportsman have been engaged with the U.S. Coast Guard and Water Sports Industry Association for over a decade to produce content that promotes best practices in boating safety. Since we began our work, the USCG has congratulated us for doing our part to decrease boating deaths.

3. What does winning this award mean for your company?

The recognition associated with this award raises the esteem and importance of our project’s efforts and encourages all stakeholders to continue in our work to make boaters safer.

4. What was a key takeaway you received as a result of working on this project or campaign?

Some of our audience commented that the ill-fitting, cheap life jackets on the kids in the video were just not realistic and this was actually reassuring to our team’s effort. But, our goal was to highlight that behavior and offer a dramatic lesson on the importance of correcting it to reach the boaters we’ve seen and know who have fallen prey to the misconception that “kids will grow into their life jackets,” they have to fit NOW.

  

The dog days of summer are here. The days are hot and so are the nights, so getting out on a boat is a great way to cool down. And lots of boaters bring their dogs along, so we wanted to provide you with 5 essential tips to help you get your furry friend ready for the water.

1. Adjustment Period - If you’ve never taken your pet boating or it has been an entire year since you last took them, plan a short trip on the boat so that the dog can gradually get used to the boat and the water. It may take a few trips before the dog gets comfortable and if your family helps encourage the dog with lots of attention and some treats, you’ll be able to have a boating dog in no time.

2. Life Jackets - These aren’t just required for people, but for dogs as well. Even if your dog can swim, it is important to have a properly fitted life jacket that the dog will wear at all times. You never know when the dog will accidentally fall into the water, get tired while swimming, or panic when the water is moving so the life jacket will keep it afloat.

3. Sunshine Protection - The sun can be extremely hot for pets, not just for their fur, but also for their feet on the deck of the boat. You want to make sure to provide a shady location where they can rest. And, if you have a short-haired pet or one with light coloring, you’ll want to apply dog-safe sunscreen.

4. Fresh Water - Make sure to provide plenty of clean, fresh water for your pet to drink at all times. Discourage your pet from drinking from the water you’re boating in as it can make them sick.

5. Potty Breaks - Your pet will likely need a chance to relieve themselves a number of times while out on the water. If you’re able to pull into a spot on land for the dog to use, be prepared with bags to pick up any waste. If you’re father away from land or stopping isn’t possible, bring along plenty of puppy training pads that can be put down on the boat deck for the dog to use. When soiled, they can be bagged up into a larger trash bag and fresh ones can be put down. * One final tip - Don’t forget to take photos of your dogs on the boat. You can share them with the Sea Tow Foundation and tag us @SeaTowFoundation when you post them on social media. By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and memorable boating experience with your furry companion.

Boat Safe Chicago won the 2023 National Boating Safety Award in two categories: Top Community Boating Education Program and Top Social Media Influencer.

1. What inspired your company to promote boating safety? Was this the first time doing so or has there been previous boating safety promotions?

    

   Boat Safe Chicago prioritizes guest safety as charter captains, so it seemed obvious that we would start to teach responsible boating to the community. We know that anyone can go online and get a boater safety card, but we felt a call to teach on-water boating safety including close-quarters maneuvering, emergency procedures, and other responsible boating practices.

    

2. What does winning this award mean for your company?
   
   

   The award was significant because it validated our team’s efforts, and the national recognition brought meaningful benefits. We used the awards as a stepping stone to grow our safety training businesses, Boat Safe Chicago and launched our new company, Boat Safe Great Lakes.
   
   

3. What was a key takeaway you received as a result of working on this project or campaign?

    

   On-water training works! We started training all new and returning Carefree Boat Club members in Chicago and Wisconsin in April of 2023, and we recently found out that they went from several claims a year to having ZERO claims in 2023.  The results were so impressive that several Carefree Boat Clubs in Michigan have started using our training for their members.
   
   

4. Is your company working on any future boating safety projects or campaigns? If so, is there anything you can share about what you’re planning to do?
   
   

The public needs on-water training! No one wakes up and says, “I am going to really destroy my boat today.” We need to continue working together to make our waterways safer for everyone!

Regal & Nautique of Orlando won the 2023 National Boating Safety Award in the category of Top Marine Retailer.

1. Please briefly describe your winning entry and tell us about the process of creating/launching it.

Regal & Nautique of Orlando has been a long-time advocate of boating safety, and we were very pleased by the opportunity to share our strategic retail initiatives and activities in hopes that other dealers will “see the light” and share in similar efforts. Our winning entry reflected our dealership’s holistic approach to boating safety which runs throughout all aspects of our business and operations, from active engagement among our leadership team in industry-sponsored boating safety initiatives, to our own ongoing customer education and promotion via safety training and onboarding, along with participation in multiple events and marketing communication platforms.

2. What inspired your company to promote boating safety?

Boating safety is an integral component in our dealership DNA and has been a major mission for our dealership since Day One. We believe safe boaters are happy boaters. Educated boaters are far more confident on the water and that contributes to a more fulfilling and enjoyable experience for everyone on board. As a dealership, boating safety is a key part of our stewardship to provide the best boating experience possible for our customers.

3. What partnerships, media coverage and/or opportunities have you received as a result of winning the award?
   
   

We appreciated the solid national media coverage generated as a result of winning this award and we also shared the news locally, and directly with our customers through various marketing communication channels. We have long-standing boating safety partnerships in place with “Ride Dry. Drive Dry” and others, plus we have intentionally shared and promoted the good works of multiple other boating safety organizations via our social platforms, website Learning Center blog and via customer eblasts. 

4. Is your company working on any future boating safety projects or campaigns? If so, is there anything you can share about what you’re planning to do?

Regal & Nautique of Orlando will continue to promote and participate in ongoing boating safety activities and initiatives on both the national and local level for our team members, customers, and with our dealership events and tournament series.  Some big news to share is that we have launched our exciting online pro shop at www.WakeUnited.com. Here, we offer a full line-up of the latest boating safety equipment and gear that is sure to resonate with our customers and the boating community at large!

Boston Whaler won the 2023 National Boating Safety Award in the category of Top Marine Public Relations and Marketing Effort.

1. Please briefly describe your winning entry and tell us about the process of creating/launching it.
   
   Our winning entry for Boston Whaler was a comprehensive boating safety campaign that was aimed at encouraging Boston Whaler boaters to participate in safe boating. We utilized social channels, our website, and emails to drive the most awareness and make give our audience some important tips that could be useful during their own boating. And Capt. Wil Rogers helped with lots of videos on boating safety tips.

2. What inspired your company to promote boating safety?
   
   For Boston Whaler, boating safety is one of our biggest priorities. We maintain the reputation of being unsinkable, and therefore upholding quality boating for all our customers. Recognizing the significance of maintaining our reputation, our company has consistently prioritized safety initiatives, ensuring that every boater feels confident and secure on the water. This campaign, building upon our unsinkable legacy, represents another milestone in our ongoing commitment to fostering a culture of safety within the boating community.

3. What does winning this award mean for your company?
   
   

We are so honored to win this award because it validates our efforts in promoting boating safety and it also acknowledges the impact of our initiatives within the industry. It serves as recognition of our dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of boaters and emphasizes the need for ongoing boating safety campaigns, not just during National Safe Boating Week.

4. Is your company working on any future boating safety projects or campaigns? If so, is there anything you can share about what you’re planning to do?
   
   

Looking ahead, Boston Whaler remains committed to promoting boating safety in future projects and campaigns. We continue to release blog articles and landing pages for our audience that contain essential safety tips. We find that providing these resources to our boaters is the best way to communicate the importance of safe boating. We continue to explore new avenues of reaching boaters and emphasizing the importance of safety. Our goal is to continue raising awareness and providing resources that empower boaters to make informed decisions and enjoy the water responsibly.

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.

Garmin won the 2023 National Boating Safety Award in the category of Top Gear & Equipment Manufacturer.

1. What inspired your company to promote boating safety?
   
   Many people think that safe boating just means wearing a life jacket (which is important), but there are so many additional ways to ensure you have an enjoyable – and safe – day out on the water. Garmin’s mission is to create products that are an essential part of our customers’ lives, which includes boating and fishing. From up-to-date mapping to sonar technology, marine radars, AIS and VHF equipment to inReach satellite communicators, Garmin products can help make the difference between a good and bad day on the water, and we’re passionate about ensuring our customers know how to use their electronics so they can make the most out of doing what we all love so much – enjoying the water.
   
   
2. What partnerships, media coverage and/or opportunities have you received as a result of winning the award?
   
   Since collaborating with The Qualified Captain to raise awareness for boating safety last year, we have continued to strengthen our partnership with them and their platform. What started as a place to highlight on-the-water incidents that could have been avoided has turned into a platform for boating safety education and we are proud to continue collaborating with them to expose more people to tips on how to make the most of their time spent on the water.

It was also great to see many consumer and trade media outlets cover the awards program, which hopefully generates more boating safety content and commentary on their various news platforms.

3. What was a key takeaway you received as a result of working on this project or campaign?
   
   It’s rewarding to see the interest and engagement in safe boating content increase from year to year – it means we’re reaching more boaters and anglers and hopefully making our waters safer for everyone. We were also thrilled to learn that the Sea Tow Foundation received a record-breaking number of entries to their Safety Awards program in 2023 – the more people promoting boating safety, the better! It’s great to see so many companies and brands from all facets of the industry coming together to raise awareness of something that will impact generations of boaters for years to come.
   
   
4. Is your company working on any future boating safety projects or campaigns? If so, is there anything you can share about what you’re planning to do?
   
   

We recently issued a report outlining Garmin inReach SOS data from 2023, which showed that boating was the fourth highest activity people were doing when they triggered an SOS. The top reasons Garmin customers are triggering an SOS is for injury or an accident, which validates our efforts to promote safer boating practices for anyone leaving the dock. As we look ahead, we remain committed to creating purposeful, informative content, media outreach, education and more for a stronger and safer community of boaters. 

Boating is a beloved pastime, but safety should always be a priority. The U.S. Coast Guard released its annual report on recreational boating incidents for the 2023 calendar year, which provides crucial insights into boating safety trends, highlights areas for improvement and shows that boating safety efforts are making an impact.

The 2023 report reveals both progress and ongoing challenges. Boating fatalities decreased by 11.3%, from 636 in 2022 to 564 in 2023, while the total number of incidents dropped by 4.9%, from 4,040 to 3,844. Non-fatal injuries also decreased 4.3%, from 2,222 to 2,126. Despite these positive trends, alcohol remains the leading known factor in fatal accidents, accounting for 79 deaths or 17% of total fatalities, but the number of deaths had decreased from 88 the previous year.

The top five contributing factors to accidents included operator inattention, improper lookout, operator inexperience, excessive speed and machinery failure. The fatality rate improved, falling to 4.9 deaths per 100,000 registered recreational vessels (a 9.3% decrease from the previous year). However, the data showed that 3 out of every 4 boaters who died in a boating accident drowned and of those deaths, 87% were not wearing a life jacket, emphasizing the importance of this critical safety measure.

The Sea Tow Foundation’s mission is to eliminate preventable boating accidents and fatalities by providing access to education, tools and resources. We want to encourage boaters to always wear life jackets, and learn and adhere to safe boating practices. Our Life Jacket Loaner Program is a crucial part of this effort, providing boaters with free access to properly fitting life jackets to borrow at over 1,300 locations. These Life Jacket Loaner Stations are stocked with sizes from infant to adult extra-large and are available across all 56 states and territories. This program ensures that every boater, regardless of their experience or resources, has the life-saving equipment they need for a safe day out on the water. Check out our Life Jacket Loaner Station map to find the one closest to you.

Another one of our pivotal initiatives in promoting boating safety is the Sober Skipper Campaign. We believe that achieving zero Boating Under the Influence (BUI) incidents is within reach, as these accidents are entirely preventable. And the Sober Skipper campaign is working as evidenced by the continual decrease in the numbers of accidents and deaths attributed to BUI. By taking the Sober Skipper Pledge, boaters commit to having a sober, responsible person at the helm, ensuring a safer experience for everyone on the water. We encourage all boaters to join us in taking this pledge, making our waters safer and more enjoyable for all.

The U.S. Coast Guard’s 2023 statistics serve as a reminder that safety on the water should always be a priority. By following recommended safety practices and taking advantage of resources from the Sea Tow Foundation, boaters can enjoy their time on the water while significantly reducing the risk of accidents.

Thanks to the U.S. Coast Guard’s Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, we’ve awarded life jackets to 116 groups across 45 states and territories. Of these, 49 are opening Life Jacket Loaner Stations for the first time. Many of these communities were motivated by local water-related tragedies, showing the profound impact of our program.

Here are two inspiring stories from our recent recipients:

Troop 37's Mission for their Town of Swanville

After the tragic drowning of 41-year-old Christopher N. Friedrich at Swan Lake, the Town of Swanville was deeply affected and saw the urgent need for life jackets. Cindy Boguen, the local Selectboard Chair, noticed many boaters without life jackets on the water. After seeing a life jacket station at another site, Cindy reached out to a local boy scout troop bout installing a stand at a nearby boat launch. As part of his Eagle Scout project, Aidan Howard from Boy Scout Troop 37 applied for life jackets from the Sea Tow Foundation and built the loaner stand, which will have a profound and lasting impact on his community.

This award means a great deal to Aidan and his town. “A loaner stand will make it easy for people to access life jackets when they need them. The Town of Swanville believes that these measures will help to make Swan Lake a safe place for everyone to enjoy.”

Preventing Future Tragedies: Marina at Amesbury Point’s Commitment to Water Safety

Amesbury, Massachusetts, was greatly impacted by multiple drowning incidents two years ago, resulting in the loss of six lives, including a 4-year-old child. Bill Neelon and the Marina at Amesbury Point wanted to prevent future tragedies and improve water safety in the community. Through the Sea Tow Foundation’s Life Jacket Loaner Program, they’re establishing a life jacket loaner stand to provide essential safety gear and educate boaters about local water risks.

“Each waterway and river is unique and poses different currents and challenges,” Bill said. “If we can prevent one incident because of these life jackets, then we have won at some level.

These are only two of the numerous stories that highlight how local leaders and the Life Jacket Loaner Program awardees are making a real difference in their communities. Through the dedication of hard working volunteers and the support from the Sea Tow Foundation, life jacket loaner stands are enhancing safety, one jacket at a time. By continuing to expand this vital program, we can ensure that even more boaters are protected, creating safer waterways for everyone. The commitment of our Life Jacket Loaner Station hosts and the collective effort of all involved highlights the importance of proactive safety measures in preventing future tragedies.

To learn more about the Sea Tow Foundation’s Life Jacket Loaner Program, visit: https://www.boatingsafety.com/page/life-jacket-loaner-program

Boating is a fantastic way to spend time with family and friends and enjoy the fresh air. However, we all know that conditions can change, and things can happen, so it is important to be prepared and carry all of the required equipment. The Sea Tow Foundation has put together a list of the 10 Essentials for Boating to make sure you have everything you need (plus everything required to take) before heading out for a day or weekend on the water. And, these would be great gift ideas for the boaters in your life! We've provided some links to help you purchase our favorite items*!

1. Life Jackets – The Coast Guard requires that a properly fitted life jacket be on board for each person in the boating group plus a throwable device like a ring buoy or floating cushion. While the universal-size life jackets that came with your boat will meet the requirements for adults, they won’t fit children, so you’ll need to have other life jackets for them. And it’s also a good idea to invest in some better life jackets for the adults that are comfortable and will provide better buoyancy like an inflatable life jacket. And, make sure that throwable device has some rope tied to it so you can bring someone back onto the boat! Don't forget that the Sea Tow Foundation’s nationwide life jacket loaner program has over 1,300 stations where you can easily borrow a vest-style life jacket if you invite any last minute guests on board and need a life jacket for them.
   
   
2. Fire Extinguishers – If your boat has an engine, you are required to have a fire extinguisher on board. It also needs to be rated for marine use. Even a personal watercraft needs to have a fire extinguisher on board. 
   
   
3. Signaling Gear – If you need to get help to your position or notify someone of a problem, you’ll need to carry signaling gear. For non-powered boats on inland lakes and rivers, a mirror is usually sufficient, but if you are on a power boat or are going into the Great Lakes or Coastal waters, then you're required to carry traditional flares or an E-Flare. For more information about the different types of flares, check out our page devoted to Flare Education.
   
   
4. Lights – Boats are required to have Navigation Lights (red, green and white) to help other boats see you on the water and know which direction you are moving. If you are in a non-powered boat, even if you don’t plan to be on the water after dark, it is a good idea to carry a water-proof flashlight on board. As the days get shorter in the fall and spring, the nighttime often sneaks up on you and it is good to know that a flashlight can help you with finding the boat ramp and it also alerts other boats to your position so that they can avoid you.
   
   
5. Anchor and Extra Line – Being able to stop your boat from moving is important if the battery or engine fails so that you don’t drift into a boating channel or into dangerous waters. That's why carrying an anchor is required. The anchor should be strong enough for the type and size of boat that you’re using and rated for the bottom type that is found in that area whether that is mud, sand, clay, grass, or rocks.
   
   
6. Safety Kit – This is one of the items that it's required for legal purposes, but you should still take the time to put together a boating safety kit that includes a first aid kit complete with bandages, gauze, tape, alcohol wipes, anti-nausea medicine, gloves, tweezers, and cold compresses. If anyone in your boating group has a medical condition like Diabetes, it is a good idea to include glucose tablets or tubes of icing to assist with low blood sugar. Adding a Multi-Tool and duct tape to any safety kit are good ideas as they both can be used in multiple ways whether that is patching up the boat or a wound.
   
   
7. Sound Signal Device – Depending on the type of boat you’re using, helps determine the type of signaling device youre required to carry. A canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard should have a whistle attached to every life jacket and it isn’t a bad idea to add whistles to the life jackets on every type of boat, too. Any boat less than 39.4 feet in length must have some device that can produce a sound, so powerboats often have a horn on board to meet this requirement. Boats that are larger need to make sure that the device can be heard for a half mile with a 4-6 second duration.
   
   
8. Communications Device – Getting in touch with a friend or family member to let them know that you’ll be late for dinner is important, but being able to get help in an emergency is critical. You can’t always rely on a cell phone to work, even on an inland lake or river, so it is a good idea to carry a VHF radio or a satellite communication device like a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or a Garmin InReach.
   
   
9. License, Registration, and Nautical Chart – All boat operators are required to carry their boat’s registration paperwork as well as a copy of their boating license and/or driver’s license. It’s also a good idea to have a paper chart of your waterway just in case the electronics don’t work for some reason. And, keeping all of these in a waterproof pouch is a smart idea so that they stay dry at all times.
   
   
10. Food and Water – The last item isn't required, but is always a good idea for any trip out on the water. Plan to pack enough food and drinks for everyone on board for at least double the amount of time that you plan to be on the water. If you are packing for an afternoon boat ride that will last 4 hours, make sure to have enough food and water that you can be comfortable for at least 8 hours. That way, if you are delayed in returning to the boat dock for whatever reason, you and your boating group will not feel as hungry and thirsty as they otherwise would.

Bonus item: Having a Sea Tow Membership is always a smart idea so that you and your boat will be taken care of because members always get priority service. And this mans that you can get back to enjoying your day on the water even faster.

*The Sea Tow Foundation may receive compensation as an affiliate of Amazon for purchases made with these links.

Administered through the U.S. Coast Guard’s Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, the 2024 Life Jacket Loaner Program has 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.

For more information about the Sea Tow Foundation’s Life Jacket Loaner Program, please visit: https://www.boatingsafety.com/page/life-jacket-loaner-program

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.

1. 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.
   
   
2. 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.
   
   
3. 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.
   
   
4. 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.
   
   
5. 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.
   
   
6. 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.

1. 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.
   
   
2. 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.
   
   
3. 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.

4. Be prepared, get anchored and stay away from busy boating channels and bridges. Make sure your anchor sticks so that you don’t drift.
   
   
5. All passengers should be wearing life jackets during the eclipse since it will be very dark during the event.
   
   
6. Consider carrying a spotlight in case a boat is headed in your direction and doesn’t see you.
   
   
7. 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 8^th eclipse because the U.S. will not witness another one until August 23, 2044.

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:

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.

Gail R. Kulp                                                                              Kim Perry

Executive Director                                                                 Program Coordinator

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 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!

1. Floating, Polarized Sunglasses - $20.99

Protecting the eyes is important for boaters who spend a lot of time on the water in the bright sun. KastKing sunglasses are featherlight, high-performance glasses that will never sink and are also extremely comfortable to wear while fishing or crusing around the lake.  

2. Nautical Charts - $49.99

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!

3.   Boating Safety Class Gift Certificate - $59.95 (price varies by state)

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.

4. E-Flare - $79.95

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.

5. Handheld VHF Radio - $99.95

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! 

6.  Inflatable Life Jacket - $127.92

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.

7. Marine Speakers - $183.96

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.

8.  Qualified Captain First Aid Kit - $205.00

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.

9. Sea Tow membership - $249.00

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!.

10. Satellite Communications - $299.99

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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. 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.

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.”

If now is not the time to consider a monetary donation, please consider donating your time to promote boating safety. You can volunteer to help at one of the 1,300+ life jacket loaner stations, order Sober Skipper materials to hand out at an event, or you can share our Flare Education infographics on social media.

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.

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:

1. 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!”
2. 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!
3. 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!
4. 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.
5. 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!

Happy Halloween from the Sea Tow Foundation!!

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.

The winners of the 2023 National Boating Safety Awards were presented at the Soundings Trade Only event on October 2, 2023 prior to the start of IBEX in Tampa, FL.

The Sea Tow Foundation received a record-breaking number of entries for their Boating Safety Advisory Council to review and judge. The winners for 2023 are:

Top Marine Manufacturer: Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit

Top Marine Gear and Equipment Manufacturer: Garmin

Top Marine Media Outlet: Bonnier LLC

Top Marine Public Relations and Marketing Efforts: Boston Whaler

Top Marine Social Media Influencer: Boat Safe Chicago

Top Marine Retailer: Regal & Nautique of Orlando

Honorable Mention for Marine Retailer: MarineMax

Top Marine Trade Association: Water Sports Industry Association

Top Community Boating Education Program: Boat Safe Chicago

Additional details of the winning entries can be found in the attached press release.

The Sea Tow Foundation’s Life Jacket Loaner Program is the largest of its kind in the world, with more than 1,300 stands located across all 50 states, plus Washington, D.C., American Samoa and the Virgin Islands. Established in 2008 to prevent drowning, the Life Jacket Loaner Program features loaner stations that each contain life jackets ranging in size from infant to adult extra-large that boaters can borrow and return free of charge to ensure that they have a safe day on the water.

The ASAE Annual Power of Associations Summit Awards will take place at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, September 28, 2023.

The Sea Tow Foundation’s new Flare Education Toolkit is designed to provide boaters with the information they need to safely and properly use traditional flares as well as electronic flares (known as E-Flares). The toolkit also includes pre-made social media copy and email templates for industry leaders to easily spread flare knowledge to boaters.

The Sea Tow Foundation previously produced a series of short videos focused on flare safety and disposal, the use of flare guns and E-flares which can be found here. The toolkit also features key talking points, infographics and a Flare Disposal Locator to accompany each of the videos.

Since E-Flares are relatively new to the boating industry, many boaters may not be aware of them or know that they are a great alternative to traditional flares to meet the requirements for carrying Visual Distress Signals. The Sea Tow Foundation encourages companies, organizations and individuals within the boating industry to use this toolkit to help increase boaters’ E-Flare knowledge as well as proficiency with traditional flares.

The toolkit was produced using grant funds from the Sport Fish Restoration & Boating Trust Fund, administered by the U.S. Coast Guard.

As a result, the Sea Tow Foundation called on the boating industry to help support their Life Jacket Loaner Program and fill the gap by donating life jackets. Newell Brands, a leading global consumer goods company, answered the call by donating more than 10,000 Stearns and Coleman branded life jackets and floating cushions, which will help keep people safe across the country.

The quantity of donated life jackets and floating cushions went to the following:

• 1,200 life jackets were shipped to the Sea Tow Foundation for distribution to Life Jacket Loaner Station Hosts across the country.

• 1,700 life jackets were shipped to Sea Tow Venice in Florida as a central distribution point to help replenish supply and re-establish loaner stations hosted by them and other groups in Southwest Florida that were affected by Hurricane Ian last fall.

• 7,300 life jackets and floating cushions were made available for existing Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Station Hosts and boating safety groups to pick up from the Newell Brands warehouse in Kansas.

The Sea Tow Foundation has also facilitated a connection between Newell Brands and the nonprofit 501(c)3 organizations: Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, Inc. and the Corps of Engineers Natural Resources Education Foundation to donate an additional 10,000 life jackets.

August is Summer Sun Safety Month, which means now is the perfect time for a boating safety refresher! When you think of boating safety, you probably only think of what’s required on boats, like life jackets or flares. What most people don’t know is that boaters should always be prepared just in case of a worst case scenario.

In this blog post, we’re going to go beyond the boating safety basics and cover water safety equipment that you may not think of, but are essential to have on every boat.

Proper Life Jacket Quantity, Sizes & Type
Federal law requires that everyone under the age of 13 wear a life jacket on board and that there should be one life jacket on board for each person above that age. While these requirements are standard and in place, boaters should take it a step further and ensure that they have the right type of life jacket for their boating or water activities. For instance, vest style or inflatable life jackets work just fine for sitting in a flat water canoe, fishing in a jon boat or hanging out with your family in a pontoon boat. But, for an activity that involves higher speed or the chance of hitting the water (like riding a PWC, whitewater kayaking, or wakeboarding ), a vest-style life jacket rated for this type of activity is needed. In many cases, it may even be required to be worn while doing these activities regardless of your age.  It’s also important to consider investing in high-quality life jackets that often provide improved visibility, extra comfort, more durability and added safety features, all of which increase your chance of survival in emergencies. They also offer greater versatility and specialized functionalities, making them a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking optimal protection on the water.

Extra Safety Materials
A true captain is prepared for any scenario. Having e-flares, an anchor, extra line and life rafts on the boat could prevent injuries or speed rescuers to your location in the case of an emergency.

First-Aid Kit
Many think that this is a given on any boat, but a first-aid kit is critical. When building your own first-aid kit, make sure to start with the basics, like adhesive bandages, antiseptic materials, cold packs and scissors. Adding boating specific items like aloe for sunburns, antihistamines for bug bites, and keeping everything in a water-proof bag will make sure that if you ever happen to need one of these items, you’ll be so grateful that your first-aid kit is fully stocked and ready to go!  

Cell Phones and VHF Radios
While on board, it’s important to have audible and clear communication with other boaters. Your cell phone won’t work if you go off-shore and may not even work close to shore depending on locations of cell towers, so always make sure to carry a VHF Radio on board. Before leaving the dock, ensure your cell phone and VHF radio are charged so you can stay aware of any water emergencies or incoming weather alerts.

Extra Food & Drinking Water
You never know when your half day boat trip ends up turning into a 10-12 hour trip. It could be as simple as wanting to stay out longer while the fish are biting or you could have engine trouble and are waiting for assistance to arrive on a busy holiday weekend. This is why it’s important to pack extra drinking water and food – proper hydration and nourishment are important to stay aware and alert on board. It’s also important to think about what you would need if the weather suddenly got colder or it started to storm.  Extra clothing, layers and blankets could help keep you warm on the boat so that a mechanical issue doesn’t turn into a medical issue, too.

Sea Tow Membership
It’s always better to be safe than sorry, which is exactly why you should also get a Sea Tow Membership. With Sea Tow, you have access to 24/7 priority on-water assistance services for every boat you own or rent. You’ll receive the most comprehensive member benefits available, and have peace of mind knowing that help is there should you ever need it.

Keep in mind that your destination, the operational characteristics of your boat and the number of people on board should influence the type of safety equipment you carry on board. The proper safety equipment ensures comfort and safety for everyone, and it’s always best to play it safe and think beyond the basics when packing safety equipment for your boat!

When boating with an infant, toddler or other young child, there are many things to bring on board to make boating with a baby more enjoyable for everyone on the boat. It is recommended that you provide the child with plenty of shade and keep the child out of the hot sun as much as possible. You’ll also likely want to pack plenty of diapers, bottles or drinks to keep the baby hydrated.

What is not optional is a life jacket for the baby. Even if it is uncomfortable or causes the child to cry, it is required that babies wear a properly fitted life jacket at all times when on or around a boat. This includes buckling the strap between the child’s legs so that the life jacket won’t slip off.

Many boaters also choose to bring a car seat on board the boat to provide a place for the baby to sit and/or sleep. It is important to know that boats don’t have seatbelts, so there will be nowhere to secure the car seat on the boat. It is also critical to know that car seats don’t float. Therefore, do not strap the baby into the car seat and ensure that the child is wearing a life jacket at all times, just in case the unthinkable happens.

The following video demonstration shows what happens when a car seat with a weighted baby doll wearing a life jacket enters the water. As the video shows, the car seat sinks while the baby doll floats free because it is wearing a life jacket.

A new and dangerous TikTok trend is spreading across the nation and boaters are being seriously injured or killed as a result. Known as the “boat jump challenge,” videos online show boaters jumping or purposely falling from moving boats. Hitting the water while a boat is moving is equivalent to hitting concrete after jumping from a multiple story building. As a result, this challenge is likely to cause broken bones, head injuries, or a broken neck. In addition, it seriously increases the chances of being hit with your own boat’s propeller or being run over by another boat in the water. Drowning is also a definite risk – trying to swim after any of these types of injuries would be very difficult or impossible.

Conclusion: No one is invincible, and the Boat Jump Challenge should not be tried by anyone.

As an alternative, the Sea Tow Foundation’s Life Jacket Challenge is an excellent way to have fun on a boat while being safe at the same time. Plus, it gives everyone a chance to win prizes valued up to $800! To participate in the Life Jacket Challenge, simply record yourself and your friends finding and putting on a life jacket in 30 seconds or less and then post it to the social media platform of your choice with the #STFLifeJacketChallenge to be entered to win. Everyone from lacrosse players to moms have taken the challenge! You can find their videos and more details here: www.boatingsafety.com/lifejacketchallenge

Let’s all have a safe and enjoyable boating season! See you on the water!

Our last Q&A blog comes to us from Cristin Plaice, Director of Business Development for Rapid Media. Rapid Media won the National Boating Industry Safety Award for Top Marine Media Outlet for the second year in a row, but for a completely new project. As a contractor for Water Sports Foundation, they worked to develop ways to reach and include new paddlers in boating safety information and education initiatives.

1. Congratulations on winning the National Boating Industry Safety Award! Can you please describe your winning entry for our audience?

We were contracted by the Water Sports Foundation's U.S. Coast Guard non-profit grant award entitled: “Strategic Search Engine Content Marketing Targeting America’s Highest-Risk, Most Difficult-To-Reach Paddlers.” The purpose of this work was to create a national campaign promoting safe boating behaviors with a specific focus on reaching new paddlers, who are the most at-risk group.

The campaign was based on a content marketing strategy to create and distribute content to reach this target audience with valuable safety messaging and information when they would be most interested and receptive. We know new paddlers aren’t Googling “why I should wear a life jacket” or “why I should file a float plan.” But they are searching for things like “cheap kayaks” or “best paddleboards for beginners” and “used canoes.”  

We created the content the new paddlers were looking for and wove the safety messaging in and around the articles with native advertising placements. As someone Googles something like “cheap kayaks under $500” they land on our article “Best Cheap Kayaks under $500” and as they read about which kayak to buy, they are reminded to always wear a lifejacket, take a paddling safety course, paddle sober, etc.

We created and published 60 of these search engine-optimized articles each with safety messaging woven into and around the content. Rapid Media’s marketing specialists used sophisticated search engine optimization techniques to ensure each piece of content attracts and retains traffic from a highly specific target audience by providing answers to their queries on Google, Yahoo, and other search engines.

It seems so simple. Yet it was the first time new paddlers have been targeted so efficiently and effectively. This project is currently delivering more than 5.6 million paddling safety impressions specifically targeting new paddlers – the most at-risk group.

2. What inspired you to promote boating safety?

When we learned a few years ago just how many people are lost while paddling and how many deaths may have been preventable, we felt we had to do something.

Just a decade or two ago, the only thing on the average skier or snowboarder’s head was a beanie. But things have changed and now almost everyone in North America wears a helmet. In 2002, only around 25% of skiers wore helmets. In 2021, 90% of riders were wearing them.

As a paddlesports media company, we have the unique opportunity to reach and influence a very large audience of paddlers, so we decided to take the opportunity seriously.

We have made a commitment to promoting safe paddling behaviors through the articles we write, the photos we feature, the ads we publish, and of course our continued campaigns with the Water Sports Foundation. With our efforts, we hope to encourage all paddlers to understand and prioritize safety.

3. What it was like creating your award-winning project or campaign? How much time did it take? How many people were involved?

Creating this campaign was a huge team effort. Researching, planning, writing, editing and publishing quality content in a niche like paddlesports is difficult to do well. Our entire editorial, marketing and production teams were involved in the content creation process. At the same time, we called in our development team to code the native safety messaging placements. Overall, I would guess we had over fifteen people working on this project over the course of a year.

4. What did you learn from working on this project or campaign?

Working on this campaign reinforced how well content marketing works. Although it takes an initial investment, its ROI and value over time is well worth the effort.

I think the most difficult challenge for this project was choosing which 60 topics to select. Every year, 23 million Americans participate in paddlesports. A large portion of those people are first-time participants. Narrowing their Google searches down to only 60 topics was difficult - there are hundreds more questions to answer.

5. What was your biggest takeaway from working on this project or campaign?

Our biggest takeaway from working on this campaign was that it worked really well and that we would like to continue building upon the first year’s success. We were able to deliver over 9 million impressions over the course of the campaign. And unlike news pieces that have a short shelf life, these articles are evergreen so (with some minimal maintenance) they will continue to rank well forever and can continue delivering safety messages for years to come.

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.

Follow this link to take the Sober Skipper Pledge.

 

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.

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.

No matter what you are doing to enjoy your time on the water: boating, paddlesports (like kayaking or stand up paddleboarding), fishing, riding PWC (personal watercraft) and more, there is a life jacket to best fit the situation, your body type and your age.

First of all, there are lots of different words for life jackets. Some people call them life vests or make lifejackets all one word. The proper term is a personal flotation device or PFD. And there are different types of life jackets as well depending on the activity that you will be taking part in while on the water. All of that information is detailed more in another blog post about the new Life Jacket Labels.

While there are hundreds of different styles and types of life jackets, there are essentially two wearable versions to choose from: foam and inflatable. But do you really know what would work best for you? For some insight into the topic of foam v. inflatable life jackets, the Sea Tow Foundation spoke to its partners at Onyx (also known as Absolute Outdoors), who have supplied more than 100,000 life jackets for the Sea Tow Foundation’s Life Jacket Loaner Program. A chart is included below with an easy side-by side breakdown of the differences between foam and inflatable life jackets.

No matter what life jacket you buy and wear, storing it properly can make all the difference in terms of how long it will last. Absolute Outdoor recommends storing life jackets in a shaded, indoor location to prevent fading and weakening of material. In addition, life jackets should be thoroughly dried before being stored to prevent mold and mildew. If treated well, a life jacket can last 7-10 years.

The U.S. Coast Guard requires at least one wearable life jacket in the correct size for each person be readily available on a recreational boat meaning that you can get to it quickly without having to dig through boxes and bags. But, if you choose an inflatble life jacket, it must be worn to be counted. Through our Life Jacket Loaner Stations, we work to provide boaters with easy access to foam life jackets in infant, child, youth, adult and adult XL that can be borrowed and returned free of charge.

“We are incredibly pleased to partner with the Sea Tow Foundation in providing life jackets for their nationwide life jacket loaner stations,” said Len Nelson, Director of Sales – Commercial & Industrial at Absolute Outdoor. “Our goal is to see people wearing life jackets – not just having them on the boat, and the Foundation has done a wonderful job providing quality jackets for people to use and enjoy on their day on the water in their nationwide life jacket loaner program.”

No one ever thinks that they will be in a situation where a life jacket is necessary. Being a strong swimmer will not make a difference if you are unexpectedly forced into the water and it is possible that you could get injured and be unable to swim. Rarely will a boating accident allow you the time to put on a life jacket if you were not already wearing one.

Ultimately, the best life jacket is the one that you are going to wear the moment you get on or near the water. Wearing a life jacket can give you and your family the peace of mind for a safe and fun day on the water.

In this chart, you’ll find an easy side-by-side breakdown of the differences between foam and inflatable life jackets. Links to purchase the life jackets are listed below the chart.

Links to Purchase Onyx Life Jackets:

Adult General Purpose Foam Vest

A/M 24 - Suspender-style Inflatable Life Jacket

M16 - Belt pack-style Inflatable Life Jacket

Please note that the Sea Tow Foundation may receive compensation as an affiliate of Amazon’s for purchases made with some of these links.

Hurricane season has just started, but as many people know, giant storms can decide to take aim at any time throughout the year. While the potential impact and landfall of these storms is unknown, boaters should still be prepared and know what steps need to be taken well in advance.

With this in mind, the Sea Tow Foundation offers boaters the following tips f on how to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season.

GET STARTED NOW:

1. Ensure Your Boat Is Insured

A boat that is damaged by a hurricane can wind up costing far more to fix than a marine insurance policy costs annually. Review your boat policy’s requirements and be sure to comply with them. Boat owners whose insurance requires them to relocate their vessels out of a hurricane zone should do so by the date specified in their policy. Call your insurance company and get details of what is covered and what isn't.

2. Have A Plan

Most insurance providers require a formal written Storm Plan detailing where and how your boat must be secured during a major storm, like a hurricane. Designate a responsible person to execute the plan if you are out of town when a hurricane threatens. And, also have a plan for the people and pets in your life as well.

3. Secure Your Boat or move your boat

Check with your marina, storage facility or the owner of the private dock where your boat is moored to be sure the vessel can remain there during a hurricane, if that is your plan. If it can stay, know the procedure for securing not only your boat, but those boats docked around it. A boat that breaks loose in a hurricane can wind up damaging piers, pilings, bridges, buoys, and other boats. 

If you have to move your boat from its current location in the event of a hurricane, decide where you are going to have it hauled before a hurricane is forecast. And make arrangements with that location so that they know your boat will be stored there. You can check with your local Sea Tow operator to see what pre-storm haul-out services are offered in your area.

4. Boat Photoshoot Time 

 Make a video inventory of all valuable fixed items, such as marine electronics, that you cannot remove from your boat. Store all the boat’s documents, including your marine insurance policy and boat registration information, in a secure place that is off the vessel. This way, if you need to make an insurance claim, everything is shown in the condition it was in before the hurricane and you have the paperwork you need to prove it is owned and insured.

5. Keep An Eye To The Sky

Closely monitor local and national weather services throughout the summer and early fall months. This includes listening to NOAA Weather Radio and the National Weather Service’s National Hurricane Center at www.nhc.noaa.gov..

Our next Q&A blog comes to us from Rachel Piacenza, Senior Director of Marketing for the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF) whose media and PR Team Colle McVoy won the National Boating Industry Safety Award for their work on the “Get on Board” campaign. There were a number of excellent entries in the Award contest and, as a result, the Sea Tow Foundation’s Boating Safety Advisory Council made the decision to award a second place in the PR, Advertising and Marketing Efforts to Colle McVoy.

1. Congratulations on winning the National Boating Industry Safety Award! Can you please describe your winning entry for our audience?
   
   

On behalf of the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation (RBFF), Colle McVoy had submitted the consumer-facing campaign “Get On Board” for consideration for the National Boating Industry Safety Award. This campaign not only encouraged people to get on the water and go fishing but to do so safely through imagery that showed adults and children wearing life jackets.

2. How does winning this award help your company? What partnerships, media coverage or opportunities have you gotten because of it?
   
   

Winning this award has helped Colle McVoy, RBFF and other industry members keep the momentum alive to bring more active social families, females and underrepresented groups that haven’t been historical shown as anglers or boaters onto the water, even more than a year after our campaign has first launched. It’s been especially beneficial in keeping our campaign relevance alive with industry and state members as we work with our partners to get even more people out on the water safely. This award brings great momentum as we embark into our new campaign that is expected to launch this spring.

3. What inspired you to promote boating safety?
   
   

Promoting boating safety came as a natural element to our campaign since we are reaching new audiences who may be less familiar with all the ins and outs of boating and fishing. If we are asking more people to get on the water and participate in these great sports, we wanted them to do so safely. Additionally, many states have their own requirements, regulations and online sources, which can feel daunting to new boaters and fishers. We wanted to give people as many tools and resources as possible all in one organized spot. On the website at takemefishing.org there are some great new resources that RBFF has implemented.

            https://www.takemefishing.org/boating/boating-and-water-safety/boat-safety-checklist/

             https://www.takemefishing.org/boating/boating-and-water-safety/online-boat-safety-courses/

We also partnered with various partners and influencers to create social media content to promote boating safety in a fun, educational and bite sized way.

https://www.tiktok.com/@takemefishing_/video/7100218000183217450

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USd4Msk725Q&t=62s

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cd6ChyLqjW3/

4. Did you set goals and objectives when you started your project or campaign? If so, what were they and did you meet those goals and objectives?
   
   

We set our measure of success on the number of views to safety-related content on the takemefishing.org website and social media platforms. From July 2021 through June 2022, we saw a total of 388,979 page views, which was a number we were very excited about! Our “Get On Board” campaign has propelled forward other metrics as well. For the first year of the campaign, we had 3.4 billion impressions, 107% average increase in digital traffic on Discover Boating’s website, 44,000 new boat buyers entering the market during the busiest selling period (statistic from NMMA), and 2 million likes, comments, shares, views and clicks generated by social influencers. 

5. What did you learn from working on this project or campaign?
   
   

We learned that to really have a successful campaign and meet our goals, we also had to get other industry members excited and involved in our campaign. In partnership with RBFF, we created assets that were distributed to state and industry partners and organizations, including digital and print PSA materials.

If you’ve been to the store lately to purchase a life jacket or have borrowed a life jacket from one of our 1,000+ nationwide life jacket loaner stations, you may have noticed a change in how the inside of the life jackets look. This is because a new labeling system has been implemented and we thought we’d answer some questions we’ve seen boaters like you ask related to this.

Why did the life jacket label need to change?
The new labels have harmonized the standards for use in the U.S., Canada and Europe. This means that the new labels have taken the requirements for many countries and combined them into a simple way of understanding how the life jackets are approved for use so that the same life jacket can be used when boating in multiple countries.

Are the new life jackets still approved by the U.S. Coast Guard?
Yes, they are still approved, but the location of this information has been moved to a new area on the life jacket label. This new section also shows that it meets the requirements of Transport Canada. (Graphic)

What is different about the new life jacket labels?
The new life jacket labels feature less wording and more icons or pictures to explain their use. In addition, the 5 “types” of life jackets (Type I, Type II, Type III, Type IV, and Type V) are no longer used and instead there are just 2 categories – wearable or throwable. Wearable life jackets come in sizes as they did before, but the chest size and user weight are now shown in both Metric measurements (centimeters or kilograms) and Imperial measurements (inches and pounds). The wearable life jackets are also divided into 5 different numerical buoyancy categories: 50, 70, 100, 150 and 275 Newtons. A Newton is unit of measurement being used for buoyancy with the higher numbers providing the most flotation.

How do I read the new life jacket labels?
The Newton numerical graphic shows the level of flotation with the higher numbers providing the most flotation for high waves or offshore activity where rescuers would take more time to get to you. The lower Newton numbers offer the wearer more movement and comfort and should be used in calm waters or near shore activities where a rescue can take place quickly. (Add graphic)

The turning graphics feature a circular arrow that indicates it will turn most wearers face-up. The slash through the graphic indicates the life jacket doesn’t have this feature.

There are 4 graphics indicating the type of water activity that is approved or not approved for the life jacket to be worn while doing: personal watercraft, towed water sports, tubing or whitewater paddling.

The last graphics explain how to wash and care for the life jackets. These labels are found in clothing as well.

Are the life jackets still classified by size?

Yes, there is still an infant, child, youth, adult and adult XL size for life jackets although these words are now printed in English as well as French and Spanish. 

Can I still use life jackets that have the old labels?
Yes. As long as these life jackets meet the requirements to be “in serviceable condition” according to the U.S. Coast Guard. This means that the straps, zippers and buckles all work and there are no rips or tears in the fabric. For more details on this topic, check out our other blog post on How to Inspect Your Life Jacket.

Are there any other changes to know about regarding life jackets?
The U.S. Coast Guard has not changed the carriage requirements for life jackets in that every boat must have a properly fitting life jacket for each person on board with children under 13 years of age required to wear a life jacket at all times while the boat is underway. The laws requiring when someone should wear a life jacket in terms of the age of the boater, the type of boat being used, or the need to wear a life jacket during specific cold weather months on state waters varies from state to state and you can find the most up-to-date state boating law information on the NASBLA website.

Sources:

https://uscgboating.org/multimedia/PFDlabelsgraphics.php

https://wow.uscgaux.info/Uploads_wowII/P-DEPT/New_Life_Jacket_Labeling_System__3_.pdf

https://safeboatingcampaign.com/news/new-life-jacket-labels/

https://www.usps.org/images/Exec/Safety/Life_Jackets/2020-05-28_New_Life_Jacket_Labels_and_Icons.pdf

For more information on the Sea Tow Foundation Life Jackets go to www.boatingsafety.com/page/life-jacket-loaner-program

National Safe Boating Week is a week-long, focused event that brings awareness to safe boating before the Memorial Day weekend and the kick-off to the summer boating season. This year, National Safe Boating Week is celebrated from May 20-26, 2023.  The Sea Tow Foundation connected with some of the nationwide Sea Tow captains to share 7 boating safety tips that boaters may not think about, but should consider before enjoying a day on the water.

1. Make a float plan. A float plan explains where a boater is headed and when he or she plans to return, and it should be given to a trusted friend or family member staying on land. This is important in case an emergency happens, or the boater does not arrive back on time, because authorities will know where to focus their search efforts.

– Capt. Christian Orfanello, Sea Tow New Orleans (LA)

2. Carry communications devices. A cell phone won’t work in many places out on the water, even when you can still see land. That’s why it is important to carry a VHF radio that you can use to call for help. A Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or a larger Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) can also be used in an emergency to help rescuers find you.

– Capt. Mike DeGenero, Sea Tow Charlotte Harbor (FL)

3. Rule of thirds. Always make sure you have enough fuel for the ride home by following the rule of thirds. Use 1/3 of your gas to head out to your destination and 1/3 to come back, but then you have another 1/3 for any unplanned events.

– Capt. Ann Merritt, Sea Tow Southern Maryland (MD)

4. Use navigation lights. Even if you don’t think you’ll be out after dark, it is important to have the proper navigation lights for your boat and ensure that they are working before you leave the boat ramp or dock. Lights let other boats see you in the dark and can also help you find your way back.

– Capt. Greg Dreischmeyer, Sea Tow San Diego (CA)

5. Always have an anchor ready. When things go wrong on a boat, it can happen quickly and being able to anchor your boat is an important way to stay safe. But your anchor is no good to you if it is tangled up at the bottom of a storage compartment: always have the anchor ready to drop swiftly. Keep the end of the anchor line secured to your boat, so you don’t lose the whole length. Anchor from the bow of your boat, as opposed to the stern, to help keep any waves from swamping the boat.

– Capt. Ethan Maass, Sea Tow South Shore (MA)

6. Slow down. You don’t need to race to get out to the water. It is always there, and the fish will be there, too. Take your time, slow down and enjoy the boating experience. Plus, you’re less likely to hit something submerged in the water, run aground or have other issues if you are proceeding at a slower pace.

– Capt. Jim Pulley, Sea Tow Table Rock Lake (MO)

7. Wear a Life Jacket. The Sea Tow Foundation recently launched the Life Jacket Challenge to raise awareness about the critical need to wear a life jacket at all times while on the water. By simulating the rapid onset of on-water emergencies, the challenge encourages boaters of all ages to try and don a life jacket in under 30 seconds. You wouldn’t think of trying to put on a seatbelt in the middle of a car accident, so why should you think you have the time to put on a life jacket in a boating emergency? Try the challenge and post your video whether you succeed or not for a chance to win prizes all summer long!

            -Gail R. Kulp, Sea Tow Foundation Executive Director

Check out some of the #STFLifeJacketChallenge Examples:
Capt Jim Pulley and Gail Kulp

Capt. Greg Dreischmeyer and Capt. Robert Park

Can you find and put on a life jacket in 30 seconds? Try the Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Challenge and be eligible for prizes all summer long. Find out more at: https://www.boatingsafety.com/lifejacketchallenge

Every year, the Sea Tow Foundation opens a new grant application cycle, allowing marine businesses, communities, and organizations to request Life Jacket Loaner Station building kits and/or life jackets. In the 2023 application cycle, a record-breaking 258 applications were submitted requesting a total of 20,852 life jackets. The quantity of life jackets that the Sea Tow Foundation can award through donations and grant funding was a quarter of that, and the Sea Tow Foundation purchases the life jackets from Onyx/Absolute Outdoor nearly a year in advance of their use so that there is time to have them manufactured, custom-printed, and shipped. After reviewing the applications, 140 groups were selected to receive life jackets from the Sea Tow Foundation. Additionally, 50 grant-funded Life Jacket Loaner Stand building kits will be sent out.

Due to the immense volume of applications for their nationwide Life Jacket Loaner Program, the Sea Tow Foundation knew that not every group that applied would be able to receive life jackets and that the decision-making process would be difficult. Because of this, the Sea Tow Foundation asked the boating industry to donate new or gently-used life jackets to meet the demands and safeguard the lives of boaters. In response, Onyx/Absolute Outdoor graciously donated 447 brand-new life jackets that will ensure that 15 additional groups will be able to host Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Stations across 13 states.

Are you interested in donating new or gently used life jackets? Learn more here.

Traditional marine flares expire 42 months after the manufacture date.  As a result, boaters need to find a way to dispose of their flares every 3 years and they can’t be thrown into the trash because they contain chemicals which are hazardous. Because of this, please consider purchasing an E-Flare instead of pyrotechnic flares the next time you are shopping for boating supplies. They are approved for use as a visual distress signal and the light is much brighter than a traditional flare and lasts much longer, pus they never expire!

The Sea Tow Foundation has provided a list of 4 options to help find a flare disposal facility near you.

Brunswick’s donated life jackets came specifically from Land ‘N’ Sea warehouses located in Pompano Beach, Florida; Houston, Texas; Detroit, Michigan and Eagan, Minnesota. Land ‘N’ Sea is one of over 60 of Brunswick’s brands and is a full-service, wholesale distributor servicing the boating and recreational vehicle industry. All 868 of the life jackets are from their brand, Seachoice, which is a private label exclusive to Land ‘N’ Sea.

“Safety is our number one priority both on and off the water,” said Mike Conners, Land ‘N’ Sea President. “We are thrilled to participate in the Sea Tow Foundation’s mission to make the water safer for everyone and the donation of Seachoice life jackets to aid in their mission was a perfect way for us to continue to support our great friends at the Sea Tow Foundation.”

The 868 Land ‘N’ Sea life jackets are being distributed for immediate use in Florida and Texas and will be ready to use during the upcoming boating season in Michigan and Minnesota.

If you have brand new or gently used life jackets that you would like to donate to a life jacket loaner station near you, use the Sea Tow Foundation’s Life Jacket Drive online form and we’ll be in touch about a local life jacket loaner station that is in need of more life jackets. You can also find out more in this video blog about how to inspect your gently used life jacket to know if it is in good shape to donate.

Photo Captions:

Top left: Bart Shanks from Hub’s Yacht Club and Marina in Minnesota with donated SeaChoice life jackets.

Top right: Willard Franklin III form Four W's Fishing Team in Houston, TX with a LandNSea employee.

Bottom left: Four W's participants wearing the donated life jackets in Houston, TX

Bottom right: The City of Algonac, MI showing their donated life jackets.

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!

The next Q&A blog in our winner series comes to us from Chubb Personal Risk Services and we talked with James Berthelon who is the Assistant Vice President and National Catastrophic Communications Manager. Our conversation is covered below.

1. Congratulations on winning the National Boating Industry Safety Award! Can you please describe your winning entry for our audience?

Thank you for the opportunity to share our story! We are proud to have received this award, showcasing our marine marketing, PR, and advertising efforts. Each spring, I work with our team of watercraft specialists to develop new content such as articles, blog posts, and videos that we share with our clients, agents, and boaters in general through a variety of marketing channels like email, social media, and web. We always cover a variety of topics and safe boating recommendations, and in 2022, our core emphasis was on marina fires, safe docking tips, and case studies involving major boating accidents.

2. How does winning this award help your company? What partnerships, media coverage or opportunities have you gotten because of it?

Receiving this award is one of those rare win-wins, where what we create helps protect individuals and their families while doing the thing many of us enjoy the most —spending time on the water with friends and family. Practicing proper boating safety obviously reduces the chance of an accident which also helps us as an insurance company. Our communications are designed to be purely educational for our clients, and when they’re done genuinely and with sophistication, they also help us build engagement, brand awareness, and loyalty. The feedback from winning this award has been nothing short of awesome. It has created an exciting buzz within our company and among our agents! Chubb championed this award not only across our personal lines division, but across all of our businesses. We are also proudly displaying this award in our upcoming spring mini-campaign for 2023!

3. What inspired you to promote boating safety?

While I am an inner-city kid from Brooklyn, NY, I’ve been around water my entire life as I grew up in a commercial fishing family out of Sheepshead Bay, NY. To this day, I spend many days on the water as an avid fisherman. I attribute much of my happiness in life to time spent on the water, but I am also keenly aware of just how powerful and unforgiving that same water can be, and how quickly accidents can happen, regardless of experience. Therefore, it’s crucial for me to promote boating safety, so others can enjoy being on the water as much as I do.

4. What it was like creating your award-winning project or campaign? How much time did it take? How many people were involved?

I love working with the recreational marine team here at Chubb — it’s always an exciting time, and they’re boating enthusiasts as well! Our campaign takes weeks to cultivate, from storyboarding concepts to developing assets. Then, we use omni-channel marketing tactics to promote those assets over a period of weeks and months. There are between three and five Chubb team members, including myself, who have a role in these campaigns in various capacities. We are all boating enthusiasts with a trove of knowledge who come from all across the country, each bringing a different perspective on boating on different bodies of water.

1. What did you learn from working on this project or campaign?

    

   I’ve learned that boating accidents can happen at any time, under any conditions. For example, over 70% of boating accidents happen on clear, sunny days, and that over half of boating accidents happen on calm days when waves are less than 6”.

    

2. Are you working on any future boating safety projects or campaigns? If so, is there anything you can share about what you’re planning to do?

Yes! In 2023, we’ll likely focus on pre-storm preparedness through a variety of mediums and channels. If you’re not a Chubb client and want to keep up with our spring campaign, visit www.chubb.com/watercraft.

Congratulations again to Chubb on winning the 2022 National Boating Industry Safety Award as the 1^st place Marine Public Relations, Advertising or Marketing Effort! You can watch Chubb accepting their award from October 2022 in the video linked below.

The next Q&A blog in our winner series comes to us from Garmin International's Dave Dunn, who is the Senior Director of Marine and RV Sales at Garmin. We spoke with Dave recently and wanted to share our conversation.

1. Congratulations on winning the National Boating Industry Safety Award! Can you please describe your winning entry for our audience? 
   
   At Garmin, our mission revolves around creating products that fuel people’s passions within each of our core five business segments. In all those segments, it is also important for us to consider not only how our products can bring the customer more joy to their sport, but also how they can enhance situational awareness so they can continue pursuing those passions for many years to come. In the marine industry, it is especially important to consider how we can bring new innovative products to the market with exciting features and technology that also can serve a secondary purpose of promoting safety on the water.  From Auto Guidance that helps keep you on the right path and avoid obstacles in our cartography solution, to live sonar helping you avoid obstacles underneath the water, and GPS handheld devices with inReach satellite communication technology to help you in case of distress and much more, all our product categories in marine help promote being a safer boater. 

2. How does winning this award help your company? What partnerships, media coverage or opportunities have you gotten because of it?
   
   It’s always an honor to be recognized for bringing innovation to different markets and winning this award is no different. It shows our commitment to not only developing high-quality products and services, but also thinking beyond a feature set and putting the customer and their needs first. This award has allowed us to work with different industry media outlets to continue promoting the message of boater safety by showcasing how our products can support greater situational awareness and peace of mind on the water. We also had the opportunity to attend IBWSS and speak with attendees about marine tech and the importance of safety innovations on and off the water.
   
   
   
3. What inspired you to promote boating safety?
   
   As a company, we really pride ourselves in how our employees are already passionate about the industries we serve and use our products themselves every day. We cannot really get away from the “work” even when we are away from the office because it shows up in our free time as we are pursuing our own adventures. Many employees serving our marine segment around the globe have their own fishing gear, cruising and sail boats and spend their weekends out on the water. They see firsthand situations which may have been avoided using the right equipment and electronics on your boat and understand how they can help our customers. When the pandemic hit and recreational boating participation soared, many were hitting the water for the first time. We are excited about the marine industry growth the past few years, but understand it is our duty to do more than just sell our products to customers; we must also provide education about how to safety spend time on the water so that they, and everyone around them, can enjoy the sport we all love so much.    
   
   
   
4. What it was like creating your award-winning project or campaign? How much time did it take? How many people were involved?
   
   Garmin is a vertically integrated company, which means all aspects of the campaign we did were created in house. This is something we pride ourselves on since those who worked on this are also passionate about the boating industry and work in it every day. Multiple marketing and sales teams were involved in creating and executing our boating safety efforts throughout the year, from how we position Garmin and our products to the market, to how that fits into our overall strategy and what tactics would appeal most to the marine industry. We launch so many new products each year that it can be easy to lose sight of creating campaigns outside of that. Each year we take a step back and think about what could set us a part in the industry outside of product launches and what new campaigns and ideas support our company objectives while keeping our customers and their needs as the hallmark of everything we do.
   
   
   
5. What was your biggest takeaway from working on this project or campaign?
   
   The biggest takeaway from this campaign is the constant reminder of the importance of situational awareness in boating. Garmin is passionate about the marine industry and pushing the boundaries of new technology, but we also must consistently consider how that technology affects customers on the water and their future endeavors. For us, it is even a reminder outside of marine with the other industries we serve to think about how new technology not only makes a sport more fun or easier for new customers to get access to, but also how it can give them peace of mind to adventure safely.  From our inReach satellite communicators with global two-way messaging, to our kids Bounce smartwatch that gives parents the ability to communicate with their kids from their wrist, to our award-winning Autoland, the world’s first certified autonomous system designed to activate during an emergency to safety fly and land an aircraft without human intervention, and so much more, we are committed to creating new products and technologies so our customers can make the most of the time they spend pursuing their passions.

The next Q&A blog in our winner series comes to us from MarineMax who is the world’s largest recreational boat and yacht retailer with over 100 locations worldwide including 79 retail dealership locations. We spoke with Captain Nick Pavlakis, one of the hosts of MarineMax’s weekly “Boating Tips Live” podcast and he also serves as a sales consultant at MarineMax St. Petersburg.

1. Congratulations on winning the National Boating Industry Safety Award! Can you please describe your winning entry for our audience?
   
   Yes, we are honored to have been chosen out of your record number of applications. Our winning award was our “Back to (Boating) School” campaign focused on the back-to-school timeframe to remind even the most seasoned boaters about the importance of ongoing boater education and safety.
   
   
   
2. What inspired you to promote boating safety?
   
   We wanted to help educate our customers so they can make lifelong memories on the water and the best way to do that is to be safe. With the recent "boating boom" from Covid, not only are there many more boats on the water but most are also new boaters. The best way to promote fun boating is to promote safe boating. This is done through continuous education and endless resources. Teach me, service me, show me how to have fun, this is how we provide our customers with the best boating experience.

3. What did you learn from working on this project or campaign?
   
   The “back to boating school” campaign taught me that we can all use a refresher course here and there. Whether you are a first-time boater or a seasoned Captain, it is important to never overlook good fundamentals and preparation. That is why, at MarineMax, we provide our customers with several different classes to continue their education to keep themselves and everyone else safe on the water. I grew up on the water boating and to this day, I still learn something every time I am with my podcast co-host Captain Keith who is shown here teaching a class. These lessons that I learn from him are things that I can use in my work, and in my personal life out on the water. 

4. Are you working on any future boating safety projects or campaigns? If so, is there anything you can share about what you’re planning to do?
   
   Now that you mention it, we are!  With the growth of our Boating Tips series, we are growing into a new segment, yachting safety.  While most of our boating safety projects are tailored to new boaters on smaller boats, we wanted our series to grow with our viewers. As you become more comfortable with boating, the natural progression is to keep moving up. This is where MarineMax comes in to teach safe boating through your whole boating journey. Starting with smaller boats and being there for you as you start to make your journey to a larger vessel, we want to be there for them every step of the way and grow alongside them.

5. Has participating in this project or campaign changed your perspective on boating safety and why it’s so important?
   
   Absolutely. The difference between an unforgettable day on the water, and tragedy is often one small mistake that could have been avoided. Some ways to stay safe on the water are, designating a sober skipper, preparation the day or night before, and continuous education. MarineMax truly provides all the resources you could need for education through their Captain's Orientation, Women on Water classes pictured below, boating tips video podcast and a consultant approach to the sales process that gets you and your family in the right boat.

Congratulations again to MarineMax on winning the 2022 National Boating Industry Safety Award as the top large marine retailer! You can watch MarineMax accepting their award from October 2022 in the video linked below.

New Yamaha life jackets place on a Sea Tow Foundation Loaner Stand hosted by The City of Oceanside, CA.

Yamaha Motor Corporation is generously donating 800 brand-new adult sized life jackets to be used in the Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Program. These life jackets are located at Yamaha facilities in California, Georgia and Wisconsin so the Sea Tow Foundation reached out to hosts of our nationwide Life Jacket Loaner Program in the nearby areas and they jumped at the chance to add these life jackets to their loaner stations and put them into immediate use during the current and upcoming boating season.

In California, roughly 225 jackets will be used in loaner stations hosted by Sea Tow Newport Beach, Sea Tow LA, the City of Oceanside Harbor Division and the LifeSail Organization. All of these loaner stations are located in busy areas featuring a wide variety of boaters including stand-up paddleboarders, sail boaters and powerboaters.

Additionally, 320 life jackets in Georgia are headed to Sea Tow Lake Sinclair, Sea Tow Lake Allatoona, Sea Tow Lake Oconee and Sea Tow Clarks Hill Lake to be used at their combined 12 loaner stations. Also, they will be used in local state parks through a partnership with Georgia’s DNR Law Enforcement Division. And, they will also go to the US Army Corps of Engineers in Lake Allatoona who manage 22 loaner stations in the region.

1st photo:US Army Corp of Engineers volunteers Greta and Jody Bales, Jon Gridley of Sea Tow, Jack and Linda Croach and James Mills from Yamaha Motors. 2nd photo: Chris McCarthy of Sea Tow Newport Beach/LA. 3rd photo: Matt Schulz of LifeSail in Marina del Ray, CA. 4th photo: US Army Corp of Engineers Lake Allatoona, GA Lead Ranger Chris Purvis and Linda Croach. 5th photo: Mike Weidel from the Milwaukee Sail & Power Squadron and a Yamaha representative.

Nearly 250 life jackets in Wisconsin will go to the Milwaukee Sail & Power Squadron who manage two loaner stands as well as to other Sail & Power Squadrons in the region. There are also plans to use these life jackets at upcoming boat shows in the area.

If you have brand new or gently used life jackets that you would like to donate to a life jacket loaner station near you, use the Sea Tow Foundation’s Life Jacket Drive online form and we’ll be in touch about a local life jacket loaner station that is in need of more life jackets. You can also find out more in this video blog about how to inspect your gently used life jacket to know if it is in good shape to donate.

For more information on the Life Jacket Drive and Life Jacket Loaner Program go to www.boatingsafety.com/page/life-jacket-loaner-program

Our first Q&A blog comes to us from The Qualified Captain, a social media brand followed by over 980,000 people on Instagram making them the largest boating-related social media influencer. Most people don’t know that Aaron Stasiak is the man behind The Qualified Captain and he has provided his answers to these questions for us.

1. Congratulations on winning the National Boating Industry Safety Award! Can you please describe your winning entry for our audience?
   
   Thank you! We won the Social Media Boating Safety Influencer award. With our big popularity on social media, we utilize our following to promote boating safety tips.
   
   

2. How does winning this award help The Qualified Captain? What partnerships, media coverage or opportunities have you gotten because of it?
   
   This award helped us by showing our fans that we really do care about our fellow mariners, and that boating safety is a major concern of ours. If we can utilize our platform to remind people what can happen on the water, then we will do whatever it takes to keep the message going. We have partnered with a few big companies that have key tools on the market that can help you be safer on the water. We promote those products, and as a result, have received a lot of good social media coverage for doing so.
   
   
   
3. What inspired you to promote boating safety?
   
   I got inspired to do this by noticing how common the easily preventable mistakes were being made. We want to lower the number of accidents, and deaths on the water.
   
   
   
   
4. Did you set goals and objectives when you started The Qualified Captain? If so, what were they and did you meet those goals and objectives?
   
   Our goal for the past couple years is to do whatever it takes to remind people of the potential dangers of being on the water, and how to prevent common mistakes. We did so by sharing the sad but true stories, promoting new helpful equipment, explaining the benefits of having a Sea Tow membership, sharing boat education resources, and offering our trauma kits (shown above in the photo).  Knowing that we are the most popular influencer on social media in this industry, I felt like it was my obligation to do whatever we can to promote boating safety. We share stories, explain new regulations, and educate new boaters. We also saw a number of deaths on the water in the past 12 months. I wouldn't call these goals, but just a daily duty that we provide. An example of an educational video that we've produced is included below:
   
   

5. Are you working on any future boating safety projects or campaigns? If so, is there anything you can share about what you’re planning to do?
   
   Yes! We have a really sad but important story from a young boy who witnessed a death on the water. We are teaming up with him, and a few other partners to create a very good non-profit that will help provide just one simple piece of equipment to all local docks, waterways, and boat ramps that could help save a life. Stay tuned.
   
   Congratulations again to The Qualified Captain on winning the 2022 National Boating Industry Safety Award as the top Social Media Boating Safety Influencer! You can also check out the video of him accepting the award back in October below.
   
   

The gift-giving season is upon us and it’s always tough to find a gift for certain people in your family. But, if that family member is a boater, we’ve got 5 great ideas to help you shop. 

1. Automatic Inflatable Life Jacket – These are truly life-saving devices that are low profile and light weight. In fact, many boaters don’t even realize that they are on because they are so comfortable! However, if a boater is knocked overboard or slips and falls off the dock, the cartridge will automatically inflate the life jacket and bring the person to the surface where they can breathe and call for help. Just be aware that the U.S. Coast Guard restricts these for use only be people ages 16 and over and they must be worn to count toward carriage requirements.
   
   
   
2. E-Flare – 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 E-Flare is 10 times brighter than a traditional flare, it doesn’t expire and need to be replaced every few years like a traditional flare, it floats and still works, and it won’t cause burns to people or equipment like a traditional flare. Plus, the light from an E-Flare lasts for hours compared to the 2-3 minutes that a traditional flare burns.
   
   
   
3. Satellite Communication Device– Getting help in an emergency is critical for boaters. Out on the water, cell phones are unreliable, but a personal locator beacon like ACR’s ResQLink is always able to get a signal if a boater has a good view of the sky. And the Garmin InReach Mini can also send a text message in a non-emergency letting loved ones know that you will be 30 minutes late for dinner.
   
   
   
4. Nautical Charts – 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 subscription to the Navionics Boating App can serve as “Your Guide on the Water.” Updates are made daily and the app 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. Find subscription details here.
   
   
5. Sea Tow Membership – Knowing that local Sea Tow captains are standing by 24/7/365 can give boaters the peace of mind that they will be taken care of. Whether a boater needs advice on the best places to fish, has run out of gas, or is having mechanical problems with the boat, members get priority service so that you can get back to enjoying your day on the water even faster. Get a Sea Tow membership here.

*The Sea Tow Foundation may receive compensation as an affiliate of Amazon’s for purchases made with some of these links.

When it comes to flares, many boaters may not be aware that now there are options. Hand held pyrotechnic flares are what you traditionally find on boats as they have been the only option until recently. Handheld flares expire 42 months after their manufacture date and should be stored in a cool dry place. To light a pyrotechnic hand-held flare, remove the plastic cap and hold it in one hand. Strike the end of the cap against the striker tip of the flare and keep it pointed away from you, the boat, and other equipment. Hand-held flares are both a day and night visual distress signals and burn for roughly 2 minutes. It is recommended to keep a pair of protective gloves in your flare kit to protect your hands from burning slag.

In the past few years, many manufacturers started offering Coast Guard certified electronic flares (or e-flares) as an alternative to the traditional pyrotechnic kind. An e-flare serves as your night time distress signal. Each e-flare will come with an orange distress flag that will be used as your day signal.  E-flares are as easy to operate as a flashlight and do not expire. They only require that you check the batteries on a regular basis.  When used, the e-flare will flash the S-O-S signal for at least 2 hours, much longer than a traditional flare.  Even if you still choose to carry traditional flares, adding an e-flare to your boat's safety kit is a smart idea.

For more flare education go to www.boatingsafety.com/FlareEducation

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 pledge and 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.

Sunday, November 13^th is World Kindness Day and we are celebrating by asking you to help us expand our Life Jacket Loaner Program with a donation to the Sea Tow Foundation. A brand-new life jacket costs $25 and, during the month of November, MarineMax is matching all donations to the Sea Tow Foundation. So, your $25 donation would actually be $50 and would provide 2 life jackets to add to a loaner station!

MarineMax is committed to ensuring everyone can enjoy their boat to the fullest with classes, events and more. As a demonstration of their commitment to boating safety, MarineMax is matching donations made to the Sea Tow Foundation up to $5,000 through the end of November.

If you’d like to make a tax-deductible donation to the Sea Tow Foundation and have MarineMax match it during this time frame, please visit www.boatingsafety.com/MarineMaxDonationMatch.

A flare gun is made out of plastic and is used to discharge aerial flare cartridges. To load, push the barrel away from the hammer, place a flare cartridge into the barrel, and close it. To fire the gun, push the button on the side, pull back the hammer, aim up to the sky, and pull the trigger. An aerial flare is able to be used as both a day and night visual distress signal. Be aware that the firing of an aerial flare is very loud and safety is critical.  Always be cautious where you are pointing the flare gun and of any people around you.  Once launched, the light from the flare is only visible for 5 seconds, usually on it's trajectory back down towards the water. As with all pyrotechnic flares, aerial flare cartridges expire 42 months from their manufacture date so be sure to check yours on a regular basis.

For more flare education go to www.boatingsafety.com/FlareEducation

The Sea Tow Foundation's Life Jacket Loaner Program Grant Application is now open and receiving applications requesting life jackets and loaner stand building kits for the 2023 summer boating season. 

The Life Jacket Loaner Program is funded through the Sport Fish Restoration & Boating Trust Fund, administered by the U.S. Coast Guard and the Sea Tow Foundation has provided over 90,000 life jackets that boaters can borrow and return at no charge since the program started in 2008. There are now life jacket loaner stations in all 50 states as well as in Washington, DC, American Samoa and the Virgin Islands. 

Anyone who is passionate about boating safety and would like to host a life jacket loaner station in their local community is welcome to apply. We have a limited number of loaner stand building kits available, but life jackets are available to host a new life jacket loaner station or replenish an existing one. 

If you filled out the online waiting list application, that does not replace the new application. The purpose of that was merely to be contacted if life jackets had become available during the off season. Please fill out the new application to be considered for new life jackets for next summer. 

For more details or to apply, please visit the application page.

There are multiple Coast Guard certified E-Flare options that you can use to replace traditional flares. When an E-Flare flashes the S-O-S signal, it is at least 5 times brighter than a traditional flare and an E-Flare light lasts a lot longer.

A traditional flare lasts only 2 minutes while an E-Flare is required to continue flashing for at least 2 hours with many lasting up to 20 hours. For daytime use, all E-Flares come with a distress flag.  From a cost perspective, traditional flares cost $30-50, but need to be replaced when they expire 42 months after manufacturing.  A basic E-Flare costs $65 to $100 with only batteries needing to be replaced periodically.

 Even if you still choose to carry traditional flares, adding an E-Flare to your boat's safety kit is a smart idea. 

For more flare education go to www.boatingsafety.com/FlareEducation

The awards were presented online to each of the winners on Wednesday, October 19, 2022 following the cancellation of IBEX due to Hurricane Ian. 

THE WINNERS OF THE 2022 NATIONAL BOATING INDUSTRY SAFETY AWARDS:

Top Marine Media Outlet – Rapid Media

Top Gear & Equipment Manufacturer – Garmin International

1^st Place Marine Public Relations, Advertising or Marketing Effort – Chubb Personal Risk Services

2^nd Place Marine Public Relations, Advertising or Marketing Effort – Colle McVoy

Top Large Marine Retailer – MarineMax

SPECIAL JUDGES AWARD: Top Social Media Boating Safety Influencer – The Qualified Captain

2022 AWARD PRESENTATION VIDEOS:

Congratulations to all of the winners! And thank you to all of the companies that applied. A copy of the press release is available by clicking here.

For more information about the Sea Tow Foundation’s Boating Safety Advisory Council, please visit https://www.boatingsafety.com/

An E-Flare is a non-pyrotechnic electronic visual distress signal with a very bright light that operates off of batteries. Multiple manufacturers produce Coast Guard certified E-Flares including ACR and Sirius Signal.  An E-Flare serves as your nighttime distress signal. Each E-Flare will come with an orange distress flag that will be used as your day signal.  E-Flares are easy to operate and only require that you check the batteries on a regular basis.  When used, the E-Flare will flash the S-O-S signal for at least 2 hours, much longer than a traditional flare.  Even if you still choose to carry traditional flares, adding an E-Flare to your boat's safety kit is a smart idea.

For more flare education go to www.boatingsafety.com/FlareEducation

The Sea Tow Foundation, with support from MarineMax and Sea Tow International, held a ribbon cutting ceremony for the opening of its 1,000^th Life Jacket Loaner Stand at the Seminole Street Boat Ramp in Clearwater, FL. 

The Sea Tow Foundation’s Life Jacket Loaner Program started in 2008 with a single location where boaters could borrow and return life jackets for a safe day on the water. Thanks to grant funding from the Sport Fish Restoration & Boating Trust Fund as administered by the U.S. Coast Guard as well as corporate sponsors and individual donors, the program has since grown to be the largest life jacket loaner program in the world, with loaner stations in all 50 states, plus Washington, D.C., American Samoa and the Virgin Islands.

To celebrate this milestone and demonstrate their ongoing commitment to boating safety, MarineMax is matching donations made to the Sea Tow Foundation up to $5,000 from September 23-30. If you’d like to make a tax-deductible donation to the Sea Tow Foundation and have MarineMax match it during this time frame, please visit www.boatingsafety.com/MarineMaxDonationMatch

MarineMax won the 2021 National Boating Industry Safety Awards in the Large Marine Retailer Category.

The presentation of the awards took place at MRAA’s Dealer Week in December 2021, but Gail Kulp, Sea Tow Foundation Executive Director, recently sat down with Capt. Keith Lake to find out a little more about their award-winning entry as well as their secret to success since MarineMax had won the award for a 3rd year in a row.

MarineMax is the world's largest recreational boat and yacht retail company and they have been a proven champion of boating safety offering classes, educational tips, a video series on boating safety tips, and much more.

Learn more about MarineMax and what other plans they have for new boating safety initiatives at the video linked below.

The US Coast Guard requires that children under the age of 13 wear a life jacket whenever they are on an underway boat. Yet there are as many types of life jackets as there are types of boats. This can make finding the right life jacket for your child seem overwhelming. The Sea Tow Foundation has simplified the procedure to just 4 steps to make sure you choose the life jacket that is right for your child.

Watch the video here.

STEP 1: CHECK THE LABEL FOR APPROVAL  
Check the label inside the life jacket to make sure it is US Coast Guard approved. Also, ensure that the life jacket is rated for the type of boating activity that your child will be participating in such as calm water canoeing or fishing from a pontoon boat vs. rougher water activities such as riding a PWC or waterskiing.

STEP 2: CHECK THE SIZE ON THE LABEL   
Life jackets are sized by weight and chest size, so make sure that the child’s size fits into the restrictions of the life jacket. 

STEP 3: TRY IT ON 
Buckle and/or zip up the life jacket and make sure the straps are snug. Then, pull up on the shoulders of the life jacket from behind the child to make sure the life jacket doesn’t go above the child’s chin or ears. If it does, it’s too big and the straps should be made tighter, or the child should move to the next size down.

STEP 4: TEST THE LIFE JACKET IN THE WATER  
When you are near calm water, the child should try on the life jacket to see how well it floats. This will also help prevent the child from being scared if she ends up in the water unexpectedly.

REMEMBER: Life jackets aren’t like winter coats. You can’t buy a larger size and let your child eventually grow into it. If you put them in a life jacket that is too big, the child will slip out of the life jacket. Getting a life jacket that properly fits your child is critical for safety. Once your child outgrows his life jacket, you can donate it to the Sea Tow Foundation’s Life Jacket Drive so that another family can borrow it for their child to use. 
To learn more about the Sea Tow Foundation visit boatingsafety.com

For a printable version click here 4 Steps to Fitting a Life Jacket

What do you think is missing from our tips? Would you add anything to our list? Let us know in the comments.

Heading out for a day on the family boat can be great way to spend time together, but finding ways to keep the kids occupied and happy can be challenging whether they’re toddlers or teenagers. No matter the age, it is important to involve kids in some of the aspects of boating to help them learn to be good boaters themselves one day. The Sea Tow Foundation has put together some tips to help you, and your kids, have a fantastic day on the water.

Toddler Tips

1. Life Jackets are a must. At no time should a toddler be out of their life jacket. Toddlers can move fast and are often unsteady on their feet, so making sure that they’re wearing a Coast Guard approved life jacket that fits correctly and has a crotch strap to keep it on is important if they should end up in the water unexpectedly so that they can be easily brought back on board. You can always borrow life jackets for free from the Sea Tow Foundation’s nationwide Life Jacket Loaner Program.
   
   
2. Keep the trip short. Attention spans for toddlers is very minimal and good moods are also in short supply. When kids are at this age, it is a good idea to plan a short excursion that is no longer than an hour at the beginning of the boating season with the goal of working up to a couple of hours on the water at the end. Being able to get to the boat ramp quickly when the “Terrible Twos” are on full display will be a welcome relief.
   
   
3. Snack Decisions. A toddler can help with making the decisions of what to pack for snacks and they can even help prepare the snacks and pass them out to everyone on the boat. A plastic organizer box with divided spaces and a lid is a great boating snack container. Each divided space can hold a different snack whether that is crackers, cookies, grapes, or cheese cubes. And, these can easily fit into a cooler and then get passed out by the toddler at snack time.

Ages 4-7

1. Life Jackets are still important. While it may be possible to take the life jackets off briefly to change clothes or something, it is still important that kids these ages wear them while the boat is underway. Even a strong swimmer can get knocked into the water and surprised by the cold and find themselves unable to swim. However, kids these ages can help pick out their life jacket and get a favorite color or even find a life jacket with a character imprinted on it to make wearing the life jacket even more fun.
   
   
2. Help with counting. It is important that there are enough life jackets on board for each person and that they fit properly, so kids this age can help my counting the number of people and the number of life jackets and making sure that everyone has one that fits. A throwable ring or floating cushion should also be found and counted, too.
   
   
3. Fishing fun. This can be a great age to introduce your child to fishing and a make it fun. Start out by going for fish that are easier to catch and you can make it fun by helping them choose the best worm or spinner and taking a photo when they catch the big one. Practicing catch and release is important, but you should be the one releasing the fish to avoid any issues with the hook at this age. Our friends at Take Me Fishing can help you find the best fishing locations and opportunities in your area.

Ages 8-12

1. Pre-departure checklist. This is the perfect age to be able to start helping with getting the boat ready to leave the dock. The Sea Tow Foundation’s First Mate Checklist can be printed and on hand for each boating trip. The list includes making sure everyone has a life jacket and this includes them since the Coast Guard requires that all children under 13 years of age wear a life jacket. The checklist also includes finding the fire extinguisher, first aid kit and flares as well as checking the gas gauge, the weather forecast, and the charts for the route that you’ll be taking. Download your free copy today!
   
   
2. Pictures of the trip. A tween can be put in charge of taking photos of everyone on the boat as well as all of the great scenery that can be seen from the boat. And, this includes the wildlife along the banks of the river or the dolphins swimming alongside the boat out in the ocean.
   
   
3. Participate in watersports activities. Going tubing or wake boarding is an excellent way to enjoy time out on the water and kids in this age range are up for a fun adventure. You could even look into taking out kayaks or stand-up paddleboards so that each member of the family has the ability to go at their own speed and be up close and personal with the water.

Ages 13-17

1. Music playlist. A teenager would love to be put in charge of creating a playlist of music for the day on the water and making sure that there is something on the list for everyone on board. Serving as the DJ can be a lot of fun and keep the teens on their toes so that even Grandpa can find a song that he likes.
   
   
2. Time to drive the boat. Most states allow teens to operate a boat after taking a boating safety class, so this is a great age to be able to hand over the helm and sit back and relax while they take you on a cruise around the lake. A great online class that is interactive is available from our friends at iLearntoBoat.com and it is approved in a number of states with more being added every day.
   
   
3. Set the schedule and send the invites. A teenager can be in charge of deciding when the family will head out and whether friends can come along. They can also decide when everyone will be finished with the day on the water. This includes keeping an eye on the compass bearing and the clock and knowing when they should turn around and head back before it gets dark or they’ve run out of gas. All of these are super important lessons for when they eventually get permission to take the boat out without you.

What do you think is missing from our tips? Would you add anything to our list? Let us know in the comments.

Summertime is a favorite time of the year for many people. The days are longer, the weather is warmer, and people are able to be outside all day. They may be on vacation, playing, working, or attending sporting events or concerts. And we know that water plays a major role as lots of people like to spend their summers near or on the water. But with all of this outdoor time, it is important to be aware of how to stay safe from sun exposure, so the Sea Tow Foundation put together these 6 tips for sun safety.

1. Slap on a hat.A hat can protect your head and scalp from sun exposure as well. Skin cancer is fairly common on the tips of the ears and the top of the head, even for people who have a full head of hair. Finding a good hat with a large brim is important and, just like the clothing, many hats come with SPF fabric to help provide additional safety. Plus, a hat is a great way to hide that “boat hair” that comes from riding in the wind all day long.
   
   
2. Slide on sunglasses. The sun’s rays, especially if reflecting off the water, can be very bright. Sustained exposure to this without eye protection can result in damage to the retinas and could cause seeing spots over your vision on a permanent basis. Sunglasses should be polarized to prevent UV rays and reduce the glare and reflections. Including a sunglasses strap is an inexpensive way to make sure that your glasses don’t fall off and sink in the water when your boat hits a wake.
   
   
3. Slop on sunscreen.The sun’s ultraviolet radiation (UV) rays can cause harmful effects to our skin. Sunscreen reduces the risk of sunburn and, with every sunburn, the risk of developing skin cancer increases. Sunscreen can also help prevent the development of wrinkles and discolorations as you age. Even on a cloudy day, it is important to wear sunscreen. Finding sunscreen that is at least 30 SPF is good, but the higher numbers are even better and it is important to make sure to reapply every 2 hours.
   
   
4. Slip on a shirt. When the sun is intense and you are worried about getting burned, it is important to put on clothing that can protect your skin from the sun’s rays. Many clothing manufacturers are now selling shirts and other clothing items that contain SPF protection, so these are a good option to look for. And, even long sleeves can feel cool under the hot sun thanks to the new technology involved in making the fabric.
   
   
5. Seek shade. When the sun is at its highest point in the sky from 10 am to 2 pm, it is important to find shade and stay out of the direct sun as much as possible. This may mean slowing down and putting up the Bimini top on the boat, using an umbrella to provide shade, or going below deck during this time frame. Other options include planning early morning trips or late afternoon and evening trips to avoid the middle-of-the-day exposure.
   
   
6. Sip non-alcoholic beverages. Spending the day in the hot sun makes you more likely to become dehydrated. Alcohol will not make this situation better and can be dangerous as alcohol causes your body to remove fluids from your organs at a much quicker rate than other liquids. As a result, you can end up passing up or can even develop alcohol poisoning. The best options for a hot day in the sun is to drink water, juice, and sports drinks that replenish electrolytes.

The summer can be a lot of fun, as long as you find ways to be safe from sun exposure. Do you have any other tips that you’d recommend adding? Add your tip in the comments section below.

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.

1. 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.

    

2. 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.

    

3. 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!

    

4. 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.

Garmin won the 2021 National Boating Industry Safety Awards in the Top Marine Gear and Equipment Manufacturer Category.

The presentation of the awards took place at MRAA’s Dealer Week last December, but Gail Kulp, Sea Tow Foundation Executive Director, recently sat down with Dave Dunn and Riley Swikard to find out a little more about their award-winning entry.

Garmin is a large company that produces aviation, automotive, marine, and personal navigation equipment and they take safety very seriously. In 2021, they launched a social media campaign to help educate customers on how to properly use their products as well as learn about general boating safety topics to help the influx of new boaters feel welcome and safe.

Learn more about Garmin and what other plans they have for new boating safety gear and boating safety education at the video linked below.

Photo Caption: Jarrod Seymour Vice President of Garmin's Marine Segment with their National Boating Industry Safety Award

Emerald Coast Marine Group won the 2021 National Boating Industry Safety Awards in the Top Small Marine Retailer Category. 

The presentation of the awards took place at MRAA’s Dealer Week last December, but Gail Kulp, Sea Tow Foundation Executive Director, recently sat down with Shawn Talpey to find out a little more about their award-winning entry.

Emerald Coast Marine Group took an integrated approach to boating safety as they felt that this is a critical component to boat ownership, especially for first-time boaters or those with less experience so that all customers can build their confidence and allow them to enjoy the  boating lifestyle for years to come.

Learn more about Emerald Coast Marine Group at the video below.

The application form for the 2022 National Boating Industry Safety Awards is now open!

The awards recognize efforts to promote safety on the water within the for-profit sector of the boating industry in the following categories:

• Marine Manufacturer
• Gear/Equipment Manufacturer
• Marine Media Firms or Companies
• Public Relations, Advertising, or Marketing Effort
• Small Marine Retailer/Dealership (up to 3 locations)
• Large Marine Retailer/Dealership (4 or more locations)

This year there is no cost to enter and participants may submit multiple applications for different efforts. The application process has also been simplified this year to make it quick and easy to enter.

To see a list of the winners from previous years as well as a list of examples of the types of campaigns that could be considered for entry, you can visit https://www.boatingsafety.com/page/nbisa-application-2022.

The deadline to enter is July 23, 2022. The awards will be presented on Monday, September 26 at the Soundings Trade Only Most Innovative Company Awards event, which is taking place in the evening prior to the start of IBEX 2022 in Tampa, FL.

Enter your boating safety effort today at www.boatingsafety.com/awards!

Sponsored Blog Post

Before leaving on that epic trailer-boating adventure you've been planning all winter, take the time to inspect your boat trailer. Towing your boat is a great way to enjoy your summer vacation and explore new waters. Having the proper trailer, and keeping it in top shape, will help ensure that you and your boat reach your destination and return safely.

You can bet that some part of the boat trailer requires maintenance, especially one used in saltwater. Before your vacation, take these 6 steps suggested by Yamaha to make sure your trailer is ready to roll:

1. Inspect the tires. Make sure they are properly inflated. If the tires are five or more years old, replace them, no matter how the tread or sidewalls appear, as trailer tires rot from the inside. And don’t forget the spare tires.

2. Wheels and Seals are next. Trailer wheel bearing and seals are trouble-prone, so have these completely serviced, packed with fresh lube, and capped with a bearing protector before a long trip.

3. Put on the brakes. Malfunctioning trailer brakes can also be problematic. Having the trailer brakes and surge-brake actuator inspected and serviced before a long trip is always a good idea.

4. Light it up. Trailer lights are a constant source of maintenance. Make sure your trailer running, brake, clearance, and turn signal lights are operating correctly, regardless of whether you plan to drive at night or not.

5. Jacks, no jumping needed. In addition, look at your vehicle's factory jack to ensure it will work for the boat trailer, too. If it won't fit under or sufficiently raise the trailer in case of a flat, you'll need a separate jack. Make sure you have a lug wrench that will fit the lug nuts on the trailer wheels in case you need to fix a flat.

6. Check out the rest of the trailer. Inspect and, if necessary, adjust the trailer coupler, trailer safety chains, trailer-lights plug, bow-winch strap, bow safety chain, and transom straps. Stop every few hours on a long haul to re-check these items.

Yamaha is one of the largest manufacturers of trailer boats in the United States, and all Yamaha 19-foot to 25-foot boats come standard with a premium trailer, numbering in the thousands each year.

If you own a Yamaha boat and have questions about your boat trailer, there are hundreds of Yamaha Boat dealerships across the United States to assist you when you are away from home. Find one near you at https://www.yamahaboats.com/.

As a sponsor of the Sea Tow Foundation, Yamaha Boats 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.

Kenton Smith Marketing won the 2021 National Boating Industry Safety Awards in the Top Marine Marketing & Outreach Category. 

The presentation of the awards took place at MRAA’s Dealer Week last December, but Gail Kulp, Sea Tow Foundation Executive Director, recently sat down with Wanda Kenton Smith to find out a little more about their award-winning entry involving work with the Water Sports Foundation.

The Kenton Smith Marketing team worked with the Water Sports Foundation to launch a brand new National Boating Safety Media Center on the Water Sports Foundation website. The media center hosts content including data, statistics, reports, still imagery, video, graphics, as well as a list of boating safety experts by topic who are available for interviews. 

Learn more about Kenton Smith Marketing and why they were able to win this award as well as more details on their work at the video below.

]]> Fri, 10 Jun 2022 19:48:17 GMT https://www.boatingsafety.com/members/blog_view.asp?id=1828549&post=469099 https://www.boatingsafety.com/members/blog_view.asp?id=1828549&post=469099 VIDEO BLOG

Sea Ray Boats won the 2021 National Boating Industry Safety Awards in the Top Marine Manufacturer Category for the third year in a row.

The presentation of the awards took place at MRAA’s Dealer Week last December, but Gail Kulp, Sea Tow Foundation Executive Director, recently sat down with Caroline English to find out a little more about their most recent award-winning entry and plans for 2022.

The summer boating safety tips from Sea Ray were launched last summer and included a newsletter, social media posts, and a giveaway. In addition, Sea Ray also featured content from influencer Capt. Sandy Yawn from the Bravo Channel’s “Below Deck Mediterranean” show.

Learn more about Sea Ray Boats and why they’ve been able to win this award for three years in a row at the video below.

Before every boating trip, it is crucial that the operator files a float plan to let someone back home know where you’ll be heading and when you plan to be back. This can be as simple as writing the information on a dry-erase board in the kitchen, leaving a hand-written form with a fishing buddy, or using the U.S. Coast Guard’s mobile app and sending an email copy to 4 friends staying on shore.

A float plan should include the following information:

• The date(s) of the boating trip
• The type, size, and color of your boat
• The location where you are starting your boating trip and the time
• How many people are going with you and their names and ages
• Whether you plan to do any activities during your trip (i.e. fishing, hunting, wakeboarding, tubing, etc.)
• Where you plan to end your boating trip and the time you expect to return

If you do not return when you said you would, your friend or family member back on land can contact the appropriate authorities and provide details on your float plan so that a search can be initiated. Using the information in your float plan will help rescuers locate you much faster and get you and your boating friends the help that you need.

Did you enjoy this blog? To help us continue providing these boating safety tips, 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.

1. The red coiled lanyard can save the life of the boat operator in the event that she falls overboard unexpectedly.
2. A wireless system with FOBs for all passengers lets the operator know if a passenger winds up in the water.
3. It is required by law as of April 1, 2021.

Unexpected falls overboard can result in being struck by the propeller or the boat and victims could also drown if they aren’t wearing a life jacket and aren’t able to be found and brought back on board quickly.

Before every boating trip, make sure that the boat operator is using the red coiled lanyard attached to the engine cut-off switch. These Sea Tow Foundation also offers special wristbands, designed to attach to the lanyard, which are available as a thank you for a small donation by visiting https://www.boatingsafety.com/page/ECOS-Wristband. Or, better yet, make the investment in your family’s safety and get a wireless man overboard system with a FOB for all on board from our friends at FELL Marine.

Did you enjoy this blog? To help us continue providing these boating safety tips, 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.

Electronic visual distress signals (eVDS) entered the market a few years ago and have revolutionized the VDS market. An E-Flare is another name for these devices that can float, never expire, are safe enough for a child to use without fear of being burned, and the light from an E-Flare lasts at least 2 hours. E-Flares operate on batteries that will need to be replaced every few years, but these batteries can be recycled. An E-Flare that is certified by the U.S. Coast Guard for meeting carriage requirements starts at $60-75 and more sophisticated versions cost more. Make the switch to an E-Flare today! Find more information on our website at https://www.boatingsafety.com/page/FlareEducation.

Did you enjoy this blog? To help us continue providing these boating safety tips, 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.

The Sea Tow Foundation’s nationwide network of Life Jacket Loaner Stations exists to make sure that every boater, no matter their age or size, can have access to a free life jacket to borrow to keep them safe on the water. Whether you forgot to pack yours or invited additional people on your boat and need extras, the Sea Tow Foundation’s Life Jacket Loaner Program has over 1,300 locations nationwide, so that you can find one close to wherever you are boating. Find one near you at www.boatingsafety.com/map.

Every boater on every boating trip should Take the Pledge to be or designate a Sober Skipper. 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. Together, we can make sure no one dies from BUI ever again. Take the Pledge today at www.boatingsafety.com/soberskipperpledge.

Did you enjoy this blog? To help us continue providing these boating safety tips, 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.

Keeping an eye on the weather is easy thanks to the NOAA weather channel on VHF or on the radio. You’ll need to check NOAA’s website at www.weather.gov for the correct channels in your area. You can also download the NOAA Radar and Weather app for free on your cell phone or tablet.

If a thunderstorm should start while you are out on the water, make sure everyone is wearing life jackets. Close all the windows, hatches, doors, and other openings and store any loose gear or equipment. Turn off electrical equipment except the navigation lights so that you can be seen. Keep your boat moving at a slow speed with the bow turned into the waves so that the waves don’t come over the side of the boat and swamp you. Get to the lowest, most central part of the boat as soon as possible and keep your VHF radio or cell phone close by in case you need to call for help.

Did you enjoy this blog? To help us continue providing these boating safety tips, 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.

Boaters should also inspect their fire extinguishers regularly to ensure that the locking pin is intact, the tamper seal is still in place, and the pressure gauge is operating correctly. Then, the fire extinguisher should be rotated top to bottom a few times to ensure the chemical has not settled and the tank is still full.

For details on which types of boats are required to carry fire extinguishers as well as how to use a fire extinguisher correctly, please see this previous blog post on the topic.

Did you enjoy this blog? To help us continue providing these boating safety tips, 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.

Lafferty Media Partners won the 2021 National Boating Industry Safety Awards in the Top Marine Media Category for their work developing and launching America’s Boating Channel for the U.S. Power Squadrons, now known as America’s Boating Club.

The presentation of the awards took place at MRAA’s Dealer Week, but Gail Kulp, Sea Tow Foundation Executive Director, recently sat down with Marty Lafferty to find out a little more about their award-winning entry and plans for 2022.

America’s Boating Channel features a growing library of custom boating safety videos showcasing content on numerous boating safety topics that is featured on a custom YouTube channel. Topics covered include fire extinguisher regulations, cold weather boating, basic marine communications, docking, anchoring, mooring, and basic operation of a boat among many others.

As Lafferty Media Partners prepares for Season Six, watch the video interview below to learn more about their award-winning efforts as well as their plans for the new season of content.

]]> Sun, 8 May 2022 16:40:45 GMT https://www.boatingsafety.com/members/blog_view.asp?id=1828549&post=467201 https://www.boatingsafety.com/members/blog_view.asp?id=1828549&post=467201 The Sea Tow Foundation has created a National Safe Boating Week Resource Kit available free of charge to marine industry stakeholders. The kit offers instructions on how to share a wealth of resources including safety tips, photos, videos, blogs, and social media posts to cover the entire seven days.

National Safe Boating Week is held from May 21 – 27 and the Sea Tow Foundation hopes that our for-profit and non-profit recreational boating industry colleagues can use this simple resource kit to participate.

To access the Sea Tow Foundation’s free National Safe Boating Week Resource Kit, please visit: www.boatingsafety.com/NSBW

1. Spring Clean Your Boat
Start by wiping down any dust and dirt that many have accumulated. Clean the seats and treat the fabric to prevent mold from forming. This is also a good time to wax the boat.

2. Check the Electronics, Wiring and Hoses
Look for loose connections, frayed wires and split hoses. If you know how to make the necessary repairs, you can tackle them yourself, but having a good boat mechanic on speed-dial is also a plus to make sure that everything is done correctly the first time.

3. Inspect the Safety Equipment
Check on the expiration dates for the fire extinguisher and emergency flares and replace any that have expired. You can also get an e-flare instead of your old pyrotechnic flares and never have to buy flares again! Also, check the life jackets to make sure that they have not mildewed or dry-rotted. While mildew can be cleaned using these tips, you must get rid of a life jacket with broken straps or dry-rot. This is also a good time to make sure the life jackets still fit everyone who will be wearing them. If the kids grew over the winter, they may need a new life jacket.

4. Update the Float Plan
Whether you use a written form or an app, make sure that the information in your float plan is updated with all of the details that you want rescuers to know if you should fail to come back on time from your boating trip and your family needs to call and start a search for you.

5. Refresh Your Knowledge
Take a boating safety class and look for any updated laws that you should know about related to the waters where you plan to go boating. Update your maps and charts as well to ensure that they contain all of the buoys and navigation aids that you may encounter.

Photo courtesy of U.S. Coast Guard

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On April 20, 2022, the new fire protection regulation for recreational boats takes effect. If your disposable (non-rechargeable) fire extinguisher has a date of manufacture stamped on the bottle that is older than 12 years, the extinguisher is considered expired and must be removed from service. The most recently published rule can be found here. To determine if your fire extinguisher is approved for use on boats, the label on the bottle will state “Marine Type – USCG Approved”.

Carrying Requirements for Boats

There are no changes to when marine fire extinguishers are required on boats or to the number of extinguishers required to be on board.

The following recreational boats are required to carry marine fire extinguishers:

1. Boats with permanently installed fuel tank(s), or
   
   
2. Spaces that are capable of trapping fumes, such as a
   - Closed compartments, such as those under seats with space large enough to store a portable fuel tank.
   - Double bottoms that are not sealed to the hull or that are not completely filled with flotation material.
   - Closed living space.
   - Closed stowage compartment in which combustible or flammable materials is stowed.

For all fire extinguisher requirements for the recreational boater, including how many are needed for different boat sizes, go to the U.S. Coast Guard FAQ page.

Ready When You Need It

It’s important to keep your extinguisher readily accessible and in good and serviceable working condition. Inspect it monthly to check the pressure gauge, seals and to ensure there is no rust or damage. If you find yourself needing to use one, keep the acronym PASS in mind: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the lever, and Sweep side to side.

If a fire does erupt on your boat, stop the engine immediately and make sure that everyone on board is wearing a life jacket in case you have to abandon the boat. If possible, position the boat so that the fire is downwind and then use the fire extinguisher. If the fire continues to burn after using the extinguisher, place a MAYDAY call on your VHF radio or call 911 if you are in cell phone range and prepare to abandon ship.

To continue providing these 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.