BOATING SAFETY TIPS TO REMEMBER

The weather is starting to warm and that means larger crowds on the water. The Monroe County Sheriff’s We urge mariners to stay safe and respect other boats. Use common sense, stay alert, have fun, and come home alive! Please remember these safety tips:

• Be Weather-Wise

Always check local weather conditions.

• Use Common Sense

Operate at a safe speed, especially in crowded areas. Steer clear of vessels that are restricted in their ability to slow or turn. Respect buoys and other navigational aids.

• Designate an Assistant Skipper

Make sure more than one person on board is familiar with all aspects of your boat.

• Develop a Float Plan

Always be sure someone else knows where you’re going and how long you’re going to be gone.

• Use Life Jackets

Assign and fit each person onboard with a life jacket.

• Avoid Alcohol

Save the alcohol for later. BUIs are just as serious as DUIs.

• Learn to Swim

Proper boating safety means knowing how to swim.

• Take a Boating Course

Take a local course or check online tutorials.

• Get a Free Vessel Safety Check

The U.S. Coast Guard offers boat examinations to verify the presence and condition of safety equipment.

• Boating Must Haves

Working VHF radio, Fire Extinguisher that’s not expired PFDs and throwable PFD Flares that are not expired and First-aid kit

CALL 911 IF A CRIME IS TAKING PLACE

Crime Stoppers offers a reward for the arrest of anyone in a felony criminal case.

If you see anything suspicious, call the Sheriff’s Office immediately! It is our job to check out suspicious activity. Your call may be the one that helps us catch the bad guys!

Boaters should also be mindful of migrant vessels underway at sea and others that are abandoned in nearshore waters. Always report migrant vessels underway to the U.S. Coast Guard on VHF Channel 16. Migrant vessels lack the safety and operational features of normal boats. Use

If you see something you think may be suspicious. Call CrimeStoppers with any crime tips: 1-866-471-8477

Submit tips online at www.floridakeyscrimestoppers.com