Montgomery, AL –Like the waves of Alabama’s gorgeous Gulf Coast shoreline, summer is fast approaching and, with the weather warming, it’s an ideal time to take in Alabama’s beautiful waterways. No matter if you’re a water-sports enthusiast, water sports lover, remember to remain safe when on the water. AL Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Marine Patrol Division is a member of with the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) to take part during the upcoming National Safe Boating Week which will be held from May 20 to 26.

In the beginning of the week of safety, employees from various units and divisions were seen in the office in life vests May 19, to mark the occasion the annual “Wear Your Life Jacket to Work Day.” The annual event provides an educational, fun element before National Safe Boating Week, the official launch of the NSBC’s 2023 Safety Boating Campaign.

ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said, “Educating people about the security and comfort of life jackets will continue to be a major concern for our Agency in this critical campaign. Water conditions can alter within a moment of a glance and drowning-related deaths are preventable, and could impact anyone living near or in the water. This is the reason it is essential for anyone who is who are near water to wear the U.S. Coast Guard-approved and appropriately fitted life jacket because it is the simplest technique for those who are participating in paddling, recreational boating or towed water activities.”

The ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division Chief Steve Thompson stated, “Wearing a life jacket is an essential element of safety on the water, along with the experience and knowledge necessary to keep a variety of vessels in various environments. In February, the ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division offered numerous free boating safety and licence classes across the state to help prepare for the summer’s busy season. The courses provided a wonderful chance for residents to enjoy their local waters and discuss the particular issues boaters encounter with local troopers. After our courses have concluded, we’re planning serving local boaters with our free inspections of vessels.”

The ALEA Marine Patrol’s Northern District will be free providing courtesy inspections of vessels on May 23rd between 10 a.m. until noon in one of the following places:

Pickwick Lake (Florence) Florence Harbor Marina Florence Harbor Marina McFarland Park

Lake Guntersville City Harbor Marina

Logan Martin Lake Riverside City Boat Ramp

ALTA Troopers will be on hand to check all required safety equipment and instruct boaters about fitting proper life jackets in advance of the hectic Memorial Day weekend.

ALEA offers the following advice for boaters:

  • Get a boating course. Learn valuable information and gain on-water experience during an instructor-led boating course that offers numerous options for beginners or experienced sailors.
  • Check equipment. Check that all equipment is working, functional and in good working order.
  • Create a float plan. Always let someone at the shore know about your trip that includes passenger and operator details, the type of boat and registration, and the communications equipment aboard before leaving the dock.
  • Wear the life jacket. Be sure that everyone is wearing an appropriate life jacket at all time. A life jacket that has been stowed is useless in the event of an emergency. In Alabama children who are less than eight years old must wear an approved PFD, or personal flotation apparatus (PFD) in all circumstances, except on deck or inside a cabin that is enclosed.
  • Make sure you use an engine cut-off switch It’s the law. An engine cut-off device is a well-tested security measure to shut down an engine on a powerboat in the event that the owner suddenly be thrown overboard.
  • Be aware of the weather. Always check the forecast prior to embarking on the water and also during your excursion.
  • Be aware of what’s happening around you always. About a quarter of all boating accidents reported in 2021 were the result of the operator’s inattention or a lack of awareness.
  • Be aware of where you’re headed and drive at a safe speed. Be aware of the area local boating speed zones and ensure you travel at a reasonable speed.
  • Do not operate a boat while impaired. A BUI is the cause of one-third of all deaths resulting from recreational boating. Always designate a sober skipper.
  • Stay in contact. You should have multiple communication devices that is functional even in wet conditions. VHF radios beacons for emergency locators satellite phones, cell phones are all essential devices in the event of an emergency.By adhering to these guidelines allow you to enjoy your boat, sun, the water and the fresh air safely. For more boating information and advice, go to www.alea.gov.