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Sunday, May 18, 2014

Organization Reminding Boaters To Stay Safe

After a winter for the record books, many boaters are anxious to get back on the water and one organization has some safety tips to make sure your long weekend of fun doesn't turn tragic. 

BoatSmart President Cameron Taylor says the importance of wearing a life-jacket can't be overemphasized saying more and more people seem to be sporting them. But unfortunately he says in about 79-percent of boating drownings the people who died were not wearing an approved PFD or life-jackets. 

And remember to stay sober when you're operating a boat as alcohol is a factor in about four out of 10 boating deaths.

You should also make sure you have your BoatSmart operator card, which Cameron says is required by law and if you don't have it you can face a minimum $250 fine. He says going through the process of getting your card will teach you what you need to know about boating safely. To get the card, click here.