Utah State Parks Boating Safety Tip of the Week

Salt Lake City -- As a boat operator, you are responsible for ensuring your passengers understand basic safety practices. Review the following safety tips before heading out on the water:

- Wear a life jacket at all times

- Know where critical safety equipment is located, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, distress signals, bailing devices, first aid kit and anchor

- Know safety procedures if you’re caught in rough weather, someone falls overboard, your boat capsizes, or a fire erupts

- Know how to use the VHF marine band radio, make a MAYDAY call and signal for help

- Know that alcohol and boats do not mix. It is illegal for the boat operator to consume alcohol

- Know never to leave the steering wheel and throttle controls with the engine in gear, even to simply turn around and talk with passengers

For additional safe boating tips visit stateparks.utah.gov/boating or call (801)538-BOAT. Wear it Utah!