05-28-2011, 11:10 AM
RALEIGH, N.C. - Wildlife Officers with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission are reminding everyone to comply with the state's boating safety laws this summer.
Wildlife Officers are charged with enforcing the boating laws and regulations on the waters of North Carolina, and may stop any vessel for safety checks or violations. In the course of their duties, these law enforcement officers patrol over 5,000 square miles of inland streams, rivers, lakes and coastal waterways, and 220 public boating access areas.
On the Road, On the Water, Don't Drink and Drive
North Carolina sets the same limit for intoxication while operating a boat as for a motor vehicle, with a .08 blood alcohol level. The law also allows charges for appreciably impaired operation.
"We can't stress enough the importance of safe and sober operation of motor vehicles and boats, since nearly one in every three deaths - car or boat - is alcohol related," said Maj. Chris Huebner, the state boating safety coordinator.
Both boat operators and passengers who drink should use caution. Wind and waves, combined with heat, glare, motor noise and vibrations create an effect known as boater fatigue, which can magnify the effects of alcohol up to three times in some individuals.
Boating Safety Education Requirements<br />
Anyone younger than 26 operating a vessel powered by a motor of 10 horsepower or greater on a public waterway must meet boating safety education requirements. The requirements, set by General Statute 75A-16.2 were created by the General Assembly and became effective in May 2010.
"Recreational boaters must enroll in a National Association of State Boating Law Administrators-approved course and pass a standardized test before taking the helm, or otherwise be in compliance with the law," said Maj. Huebner. "The Wildlife Resources Commission provides these courses free throughout the state. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadron and other organizations, including online providers, also offer approved courses that can include a fee."
All vessel operators may be asked by law enforcement officers to present a certification card or proof of compliance. To check boating safety education course availability, go to www.ncwildlife.org or call (919) 707-0031.
Kids MUST Wear Life Vests, a Good Idea for Everyone Else<br />
Children younger than 13 must wear an appropriate, U.S. Coast Guard approved life vest whenever they are on a recreational vessel that is underway. The life vest must be a proper fit, with youth sizes corresponding to weight ranges.
Both state and federal regulations require that a Type I, II or III personal flotation device in good condition and of appropriate size be accessible for each person onboard a recreational vessel, including canoes, kayaks, rowboats and other non-motorized craft. Sailboards, racing shells, rowing sculls, racing canoes and racing kayaks are exempt from requirements.
"In an emergency, it can be pretty difficult to locate and put on a life vest," said Maj. Huebner. "Time is of the essence. Being prepared means wearing a life vest."
Inspect Your Vessel Before Departure and File a Float Plan<br />
"Preparation before launching is essential," said Maj. Huebner. "Inspect your vessel for 'ship-shape' operation, make sure you have all of the required safety equipment and that it's in good condition, file a float plan and be alert once underway."
A float plan provides important information should a problem occur. Complete a form, available online at www.ncwildlife.org, before going boating, and leave it with a reliable person who can be depended upon to notify the U.S. Coast Guard or other rescue organization should you not return as scheduled. (Do not file float plans with the U.S.C.G.)
For more information on boating safety, regulations and title and registration, go to http://www.ncwildlife.org/Boating_Waterways/index.htm.
About N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission<br />
Since 1947, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission has been dedicated to the conservation and sustainability of the state's fish and wildlife resources through research, scientific management, wise use, and public input. The Commission is the state regulatory agency responsible for the enforcement of fishing, hunting, trapping and boating laws and provides programs and opportunities for wildlife-related educational, recreational and sporting activities. To learn more, visit www.ncwildlife.org.
Get N.C. Wildlife Update - news including season dates, bag limits, legislative updates and more - delivered free to your Inbox from the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. Go to www.ncwildlife.org/enews.
Media Contact<br />
Geoff Cantrell,<br />
Public Information Officer<br />
919-707-0186<br />
geoff.cantrell@ncwildlife.org
Wildlife Officers are charged with enforcing the boating laws and regulations on the waters of North Carolina, and may stop any vessel for safety checks or violations. In the course of their duties, these law enforcement officers patrol over 5,000 square miles of inland streams, rivers, lakes and coastal waterways, and 220 public boating access areas.
On the Road, On the Water, Don't Drink and Drive
North Carolina sets the same limit for intoxication while operating a boat as for a motor vehicle, with a .08 blood alcohol level. The law also allows charges for appreciably impaired operation.
"We can't stress enough the importance of safe and sober operation of motor vehicles and boats, since nearly one in every three deaths - car or boat - is alcohol related," said Maj. Chris Huebner, the state boating safety coordinator.
Both boat operators and passengers who drink should use caution. Wind and waves, combined with heat, glare, motor noise and vibrations create an effect known as boater fatigue, which can magnify the effects of alcohol up to three times in some individuals.
Boating Safety Education Requirements<br />
Anyone younger than 26 operating a vessel powered by a motor of 10 horsepower or greater on a public waterway must meet boating safety education requirements. The requirements, set by General Statute 75A-16.2 were created by the General Assembly and became effective in May 2010.
"Recreational boaters must enroll in a National Association of State Boating Law Administrators-approved course and pass a standardized test before taking the helm, or otherwise be in compliance with the law," said Maj. Huebner. "The Wildlife Resources Commission provides these courses free throughout the state. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadron and other organizations, including online providers, also offer approved courses that can include a fee."
All vessel operators may be asked by law enforcement officers to present a certification card or proof of compliance. To check boating safety education course availability, go to www.ncwildlife.org or call (919) 707-0031.
Kids MUST Wear Life Vests, a Good Idea for Everyone Else<br />
Children younger than 13 must wear an appropriate, U.S. Coast Guard approved life vest whenever they are on a recreational vessel that is underway. The life vest must be a proper fit, with youth sizes corresponding to weight ranges.
Both state and federal regulations require that a Type I, II or III personal flotation device in good condition and of appropriate size be accessible for each person onboard a recreational vessel, including canoes, kayaks, rowboats and other non-motorized craft. Sailboards, racing shells, rowing sculls, racing canoes and racing kayaks are exempt from requirements.
"In an emergency, it can be pretty difficult to locate and put on a life vest," said Maj. Huebner. "Time is of the essence. Being prepared means wearing a life vest."
Inspect Your Vessel Before Departure and File a Float Plan<br />
"Preparation before launching is essential," said Maj. Huebner. "Inspect your vessel for 'ship-shape' operation, make sure you have all of the required safety equipment and that it's in good condition, file a float plan and be alert once underway."
A float plan provides important information should a problem occur. Complete a form, available online at www.ncwildlife.org, before going boating, and leave it with a reliable person who can be depended upon to notify the U.S. Coast Guard or other rescue organization should you not return as scheduled. (Do not file float plans with the U.S.C.G.)
For more information on boating safety, regulations and title and registration, go to http://www.ncwildlife.org/Boating_Waterways/index.htm.
About N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission<br />
Since 1947, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission has been dedicated to the conservation and sustainability of the state's fish and wildlife resources through research, scientific management, wise use, and public input. The Commission is the state regulatory agency responsible for the enforcement of fishing, hunting, trapping and boating laws and provides programs and opportunities for wildlife-related educational, recreational and sporting activities. To learn more, visit www.ncwildlife.org.
Get N.C. Wildlife Update - news including season dates, bag limits, legislative updates and more - delivered free to your Inbox from the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. Go to www.ncwildlife.org/enews.
Media Contact<br />
Geoff Cantrell,<br />
Public Information Officer<br />
919-707-0186<br />
geoff.cantrell@ncwildlife.org