Safe Boating In The Sound!

As we all know the Long Island Sound can get rough, presenting unfriendly waves that make for an unenjoyable ride.  If the worst were to happen, it is important to have all the safety tools on board and readily available.

Now that the summer is in full affect, it is important to make sure you are properly prepared when going out on the water.  Safety comes first, and you must have all of the following safety equipment in order to legally use your vessel:

·         An approved personal flotation device for each person on board.

·         Sound producing devices, such as a whistle or horn.

·         Visual distress signals, such as flares.

·         Fire extinguishers that must be Coast Guard approved.

·         Backfire flame arrestors on each carburetor.

If you have all of the items listed above, you are ready to head out on the water safely!  Also, do not hesitate to get a free vessel check before heading out.  Squadron volunteers in cooperation with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary offer free vessel safety checks at specified locations.

For more information on Vessel Safety Checks, check out:

http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=v-dept