Coast Guard Station Toledo is reminding Lake Erie mariners to be safe during the 2010 boating season.

The Coast Guard would like all mariners to hit the waters and return home safely. This can be achieved by following a few safe boating rules:

• Wear a personal floatation device/life jacket at all times. The law states you must have a PFD for every person on board, but the Coast Guard suggests you go one step further and wear your PFD at all times when boating. It is much more difficult to locate, access, or don a PFD at the moment the accident occurs.

• File a float plan and leave it with someone who is not recreating on the water. A float plan is a lifesaving device on paper and can assist emergency responders with locating a distressed mariner.

• Have a marine band radio and visual distress signals. All of these devices will greatly assist you if you are in distress.

• Have a registered 406MHz Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon.

• Check the latest weather forecast before you go for forecasted severe conditions.

• Do not boat under the influence of alcohol. Alcohol affects judgment, vision, balance and coordination. Factor in boat motion, vibration, engine noise, sun, wind and spray and a drinker’s impairment is accelerated.

• Start the season off right with a thorough boat inspection, including the hull and propulsion equipment. Pay particular attention to through-hull fittings and hoses that may have cracked or become brittle over the winter.

• Obtain a free Vessel Safety Check from the Coast Guard Auxiliary or U. S. Power Squadron. Visit www.safetyseal.net/ and click on “I Want a VSC” to find a vessel examiner near you. Boating safety courses are also available.

For additional boating safety tips, visit www.uscgboating.org/index.aspx.

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