BY JENN SAMSEL
Special to the Monitor
Lake Region law enforcement agencies said boating accidents and fatalities are more common than most people think.
Clay County Fire Rescue and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said they have responded to numerous water rescue incidents this year.
On July 28, two vessels collided, resulting in one fatality. Additionally, on August 17, a jet skier crashed into a bridge, as reported by the FWC.
According to Clay County Fire Rescue, there have been a total of nine water rescue calls, which include four boating accidents, one vehicle that ended up in the water, seven drownings, and nine water rescues.
The Melrose Fire Department averages approximately ten calls per year, while Bradford County reports around two calls annually.
FWC has been actively ensuring that everyone enjoys their time on the water while emphasizing the importance of water safety. According to the agency, these water skills could save your own life or that of someone else until rescue arrives.
Panic leads to drowning
One of the leading causes of drownings is panic. One FWC officer said remaining calm and confident is crucial to survival.
“Being confident, if for some reason you find yourself without a life jacket on the water, being a competent swimmer, being confident in your abilities to survive, which is why it’s always a good idea to wear a life jacket,” said Robert Lentz, Master Officer, North Central Region Public Information Officer, Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission. “Also, you would want to resort back to a survival stroke, whether it is treading water, trying to remain calm, taking deep breaths, or floating on your back to preserve some energy. Be sure to flail your arms to try to wave down any type of rescuer.”
Other tips include reducing speed and watching out for other boaters or watercraft in the area.
Having a plan, knowing the launching destination, and being aware of factors like weather, which can change minute by minute, are essential.
Utilize GPS or tracking software to display your location on your phone and mark your entrance point.
You are the captain, so you are responsible
For tubers, it is essential to maintain a 360-degree awareness of their surroundings. Boats and water skiers move quickly, so knowing what is happening around you at all times is crucial.
“If you’re towing, it’s your job as the captain; you’re in charge of the person on the tube,” Lentz said. “Therefore, keeping them out of harm’s way is ultimately your responsibility, and maintaining a 360-degree awareness as the operator. Keep an eye out for hazards in the water, such as stumps, dock pilings, or broken off pieces of dock.”
Familiarize yourself with public ramps and signage. Pay attention to boat ramp signs, speed zones, areas populated by manatees and wildlife, and any special regulations regarding specific types of fish.
Stay hydrated during the hot months.
Finally, when boating at night, ensure there is proper lighting. It’s advisable to avoid boating after dark, as the waters can be murky and visibility may be compromised.
Other Boater safety requirements:
- Everyone must have a life jacket on board the boat.
- Four throwable items, such as throw rings – in case somebody’s in the water, you can throw it out to them for them to grab onto the float
- Fire extinguisher
- Sound-producing device – a whistle or a horn
- Online boat or safety course is mandatory for all born after January 1988.
- Have a radio.
- Manatee safety
Educate others to be safe
“And any of y’all that do go out on the water, whether you’re with a friend, or if you got family members that go out on the water, you can educate them to be safe,” said FWC’s Nick Austin.
At the beginning of 2025, a new boater law took effect.
According to the FWC website, the new law states, “A new state law requires boat owners/operators to demonstrate compliance with boating safety equipment requirements at the time of vessel registration or renewal.”
“If you want that safety inspection, you can always ask us if you see us on a water wave is down; we can do one for you, get you a safety sticker saying that you’re good for the rest of the year until January 1,” said Austin.
The new decal can be purchased at the tax collector’s office.
The boating season runs from March through September.
