There's nothing finer than fishing and boating in North Carolina and the Wildlife Commission is encouraging boaters to explore and enjoy North Carolina's many, beautiful waters responsibly.
- Appoint a designated driver for the boat. Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and is just as dangerous as driving a car impaired.
- Assign an adult “Water Watcher” to actively supervise children in or around the water at all times. Young children and people who are not strong swimmers should always be kept within arm’s reach.
- Swim only in designated areas. You are more visible to boaters and less vulnerable to accidents. Avoid diving in unfamiliar areas, as there may be hidden structures.
- Wear a life jacket or Coast Guard-approved personal floatation device (PFD) at all times. Put your life jacket on prior to entering the boat and make sure its snug, yet comfortable, and will not move above the chin or ears when lifted at the shoulders.
- Throw, don’t go. Be prepared to throw a floatation device or use a pole or tree branch to reach someone struggling in the water. Never jump in to save someone because you could go under too.
- Attend a boater safety course. The Wildlife Commission offers boating education classes. If you were born on or after Jan. 1, 1988, you must complete an approved course before operating any vessel propelled by a motor of 10 HP or greater.
For more boating safety and other information, please visit NCWildlife.org.