- First and foremost, make sure your boat is safe
and that it meets all safety requirements and regulations. Making sure that
your boat has a current Vessel Safety Check is an important first step. Your
safety, and that of all your passengers are very important to the Coast Guard.
You can arrange for a Vessel Safety Check of your boat by contacting your
local Coast Guard Auxiliary or Power Squadron.
- Always secure and lock your boat when not on
board. This includes while visiting marina restaurants or a friend’s dock and
other piers. Never leave your boat accessible to others.
- Always take the keys to the boat with you.
- When storing your boat, make sure it is secure
and its engine is disabled. If it is on a trailer, make the trailer as
immovable as possible.
- Do not stop or anchor beneath bridges or in the
channel. If you do, then expect to be boarded by law enforcement officials.
- Observe and avoid all security zones.
- Avoid commercial port operation areas,
especially those that involve military, cruise line or petroleum facilities.
- DO NOT approach military, cruise line or
escorted commercial shipping: keep your distance. There is a 100-yard security
zone around military, cruise line and many commercial vessels. Violators face
six years in prison and a $250,000 fine, not to mention a quick, determined
and severe Coast Guard response.
- Report all activities that seem suspicious to
the local authorities, the Coast Guard and the port and/or marina security. --
Do not approach or challenge those acting in a suspicious manner.
- As world history has shown, resolve and the
absolute determination not to let anyone deprive us of our given rights,
dignity and pursuits of life has defeated tyranny at every turn and will
defeat the September 11th terrorist. Their tyranny has met a will that far
exceeds anything they could conceive: the American people!”
- Boaters need to be reminded of the value of boating safety. WHY? Because when
boating safety is understood and practiced, it prevents accidents and saves
lives.”
- “Preventing boating accidents, promoting safety
and saving lives is one of America’s cherished goals, since every boater is a
valued resource for their families, community and country. That is why that no
matter what events or conflicts are occurring, your Coast Guard will be there
promoting and securing your boating safety: just as it has for over 211
years.”
- “When boaters know and practice safe navigation,
wear lifejackets, are courteous and careful at all times, and do not drink or
use drugs when boating, they prevent accidents and reduce the demands placed
on the Coast Guard’s limited resources and assets.”
- “At times such as these, boating safety can make
an even bigger difference. It reduces demands on the Coast Guard and enables
us to get the absolute most from our resources and assets to respond to all of
the public’s marine safety, security, national defense and environmental
needs.”
- “It is important that to repeat: practicing and
complying with safe boating practices, standards, and regulations produces
results that reduces the demands placed on the Coast Guard’s limited assets.
This allows your Coast Guard to meet the rigors of these difficult times. In
return, you are getting the most from the tax dollars you invest in the Coast
Guard… So, safe boating is a big plus and an immeasurable benefit for
everyone,”
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