Do not to leave safety at the dock this summer
Summer has arrived, and in Erie County, boating is one of the clearest indicators of the season. Whether you're visiting Erie Basin Marina, fishing in the Niagara River, cruising through Canalside, or heading to the Point Abino Lighthouse, Western New York offers a wealth of waterways that provide excellent recreational opportunities for boating enthusiasts.
Just as there are "rules of the road" for vehicles, there are also "rules of the waterways" that ensure the safe navigation of boats. I encourage all recreational boaters and jet skiers to understand the risks, learn the rules, and be properly prepared before taking the helm this boating season.
New York State requires all persons are at least 10 years of age to operate a motorboat, as well as all personal watercraft operators, born on or after May 1, 1996, successfully complete a state-approved 8-hour boater education classroom course and proctored exam. According to research conducted by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) in 70 percent of all boating fatalities the operator had not taken a boating safety class. A list of an approved Boater Safety Course near you can be found at nysparks.com/recreation/boating.
State law mandates that all motor-driven watercraft must be registered with the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV). If your boat is equipped with any motor, whether electric or fuel-driven, you need to register it, no matter its size. Take this opportunity to "Renew Local” by registering your boat at any of our Erie County Auto Bureau branches. By doing so, you ensure that a portion of your registration fees benefit local initiatives. To register, you’ll need to complete the Boater Registration/Title Application (MV-82B) and provide proof of identity, date of birth, and proof of ownership. For further assistance, please reach out to the Erie County Clerk’s Outreach Center at 716-858-8864 or visit erie.gov/clerk to schedule your in-person appointment.
Under New York law, it is illegal to operate a vessel on the waters of New York State while impaired or intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. Remember that alcohol severely impairs your ability to operate a boat safely and is responsible for 30 percent of all boating-related fatalities. To reinforce this message to our young boaters, New York State has implemented strict legislation that mandates the suspension or revocation of operating privileges for anyone under 21 caught drinking while operating a vessel.
Another critical safety measure is to wear a life jacket at all times and ensure that your passengers do the same. A staggering 79 percent of all recreational boating drownings occur when life jackets are not worn. Wear it! A life jacket is essential to guarantee that you and everyone on board return home safely.
I encourage everyone to do their part to keep our waterways safe. Your time on the water should be enjoyable for you, your family, friends, and fellow boaters. Enjoy the summer season by boating smart and boating safely!
