Gregory Austin is an officer with the Blackfoot Police Department.
Every year thousands of people are killed in the United States while on the water. How safe you are while recreating depends on your initiative to be educated about boating laws.
Boating is a privilege that should be taken seriously. Currently in Idaho there is no legislation for Vessel Operator licensing, or a requirement for participation in an education or safety course before operating on the state waters. Idaho State law only requires each operator must be ?competent.? Still, there are boating safety programs offered around the state and even online.
After taking a boating safety course and reviewing local laws on boating, the next item of concern is safety equipment. The following items are required on all vessels in the State of Idaho:
A Personal Floatation Device (PFD) for each occupant. It does not require occupant to wear at all times unless:
Personal Water Craft (PWC)
Children 14 yoa and younger on vessel 19? or less are required to wear PFD
Being towed behind a vessel
Class IV Throwable in vessel?s over 16?
Sound Producing Device
Motorized Vessel must have:
Navigation lights (night only)
Fire extinguisher
Backfire Arrester (if inboard carburetor motor)
Engine compartment ventilation
The lack of education is the greatest problem found in most waterway accidents. Please find a local boating safety course and study state and local regulations on boating.
For further information on boating safety courses contact your local sheriff?s office, or the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation in Boise at 208-514-2417, or visit parksandrecreation.idaho.gov.
Author: kevensen
Found in section: Commentary
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