Notice: This site has been moved. Please visit volunteerlifesavers.org to see the current site.

These pages are retained to avoid broken links.

Boating Safety

Wear your Personal Flotation Device, WE DO!

Children under 12 boating in Oregon waters are generally required to wear a properly sized PFD. In Washington similar rules apply for vessels under 19 feet. It's common sense and it's the law. For more information see Oregon PFD Rules & Washington PFD Rules

Life Jackets aren't just for kids!

The U.S. Coast Guard estimates that life jackets could have saved the lives of over 80 percent of boating fatality victims. As a boat operator, you're in command of the safety of your passengers. But accidents can, and do happen with terrifying speed on the water. There's rarely time to reach stowed life jackets.

The U.S. Coast Guard challenges you and your passengers to wear your life jacket all the time while underway. Parents and guardians check out this information on fitting life jackets for infants and children...

“You’re in Command”

“You’re in Command” is the U.S. Coast Guard’s new public safe boating outreach initiative, which encourages all recreational boaters to take responsibility for their actions on the water. As a boat owner or operator, you are responsible for your safety and the safety of your passengers. That’s why we say: “You’re in Command. Boat Safely!”
 

Mandatory Boater Education in Oregon

If you are 40 or younger you will need a Boater Education Card to operate your 10 hp+ powerboat in 2004. This program is phased-in and the requirement will include boaters 45 and younger in 2005, 50 and younger in 2006, 60 and younger in 2007, etc. Details here.

One of the requirements for obtaining the card is successful completion of a boater education class. Take your class with us! Our Boating Safely (BSC) and Boating Skills & Seamanship (BS&S) meet the requirement.

Mandatory Boater Education in Washington

Washington does not currently require education to operate a boat in the state. In 2003 the State Legislature passed SB 5898 directing the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission to prepare a recommendation on how to reduce boating fatalities in Washington. The Commission has submitted a report to the legislature with a number of recommendations, one of which is: "Make boating safety education mandatory for all operators of motor driven vessels of 10 hp or more. " Legislative action is expected in 2004.

Carbon Monoxide Are you aware of this silent but deadly killer. Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless and tasteless and mixes evenly with the air. It enters your bloodstream through the lungs and displaces the oxygen your body needs. Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning - irritated eyes, headache, nausea, weakness, and dizziness - are often confused with seasickness or intoxication. Prolonged exposure to low concentrations or very short exposure to high concentrations can lead to death. More information...

Boating Under the Influence BUI is just as deadly as drinking and driving! Every boater needs to understand the risks of boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs (BUI). It is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in every state. The Coast Guard also enforces a federal law that prohibits BUI. This law pertains to ALL boats (from canoes and rowboats to the largest ships) – and includes foreign vessels that operate in U.S. waters, as well as U.S. vessels on the high seas. More information...

Take the time to prepare a Float Plan The Float Plan is the world's only life-saving device on paper. Why should you take the time to prepare a float plan? The answer is simple... there are just too many facts that need to be accurately remembered and ultimately conveyed. You are counting on someone else, a friend, neighbor, or family member to remember detailed information that rescue personnel need in order to find you. Information that can make a difference in the outcome. Find out more at Float Plan Central.

http://www.uscgaux.org/~floatplan/

Department of Homeland Security    |    U.S. Coast Guard     |   USCG District 13  |  USCG Sector Portland

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary National Website    |    U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary District 13 Website