According to statistics released by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) in 2013, there were 4,062 accidents that involved 560 deaths and 2,620 injuries.

MDFR encourages residents to abide by the following safety tips:

• Wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD): One wearable PFD for each person aboard is required and should be stowed where easily accessible. USCG states that in 2013, 84 percent of drowning victims were not wearing a life jacket.
• Have a fire extinguisher onboard: Fire extinguishers are a crucial safety item to have onboard. Always inspect fire extinguishers monthly.
• Test your boat lights: Before leaving the dock, always test boat lights. If the lights are battery-operated, always carry extra batteries.
• Treat the seas like a road: Excessive speed on the seas was one of the top contributing factors to boat accidents in 2013. Always drive any boat with caution and be alert to nearby vessels.
• Alcohol and boating don't mix: In the state of Florida, it is illegal to drive or operate a boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Alcohol impairs cognitive and physical abilities, judgment and coordination.
• Watch the weather: Always check weather warnings and forecasts before leaving shore and while at sea.
• Know your coordinates: In case of an emergency, it’s important to know where you are in open water through coordinates. You can find your coordinates on a marine GPS or on your smartphone via a compass or map app.
• Develop a float plan: Tell a responsible person details about where you will be and how long you will be gone. USCG offers a float plan form for boaters to fill out.
• Hydrate: Keep yourself and everyone on board hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission offers a listing of classroom and online boater safety courses.

For more information, please contact MDFR’s Public Affairs Bureau at 786-331-5200.