Coast Guard Urges Boating, Swimming Safety During Labor Day Weekend
As the remnants of Hurricane Isaac head toward the Great Lakes, the U.S. Coast Guard urges boaters and swimmers to check weather forecasts before heading out on the water during Labor Day weekend.
The U.S. Coast Guard is encouraging swimmers and boaters to check the weather forecast before heading out on local waterways this Labor Day weekend.
With the remnants of Hurricane Isaac heading north, possibly arriving late in the weekend, the weather could quickly change.
The Coast Guard urges boaters and swimmers to check the National Weather Service marine forecast before heading out on the water and follow the following safety tips:
- Wear a life jacket at all times.
- File a float plan and leave it with someone who is not recreating on the water.
- Have a marine band radio and visual distress signals.
- Have a registered 406MHz emergency position indicating radio beacon and a personal locator beacon.
- Do not boat under the influence.
Swimmers are urged to follow the following tips from the Coast Guard:
- Swim near a lifeguard.
- Never swim alone.
- Don’t fight the current.
- Swim sober.
- Don’t float where you can’t swim.
- Prepare for the unexpected.
