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This is National Safe Boating week as Memorial Day Weekend Approaches - video
Craig Routzahn
Sun, 23 May 2021 07:07:26 EDT
The Michigan DNR reminds boaters as Memorial Day Weekend approaches that it's National Safe Boating Week is May 22-28. "It changed me so much that when I picked up my boat, I immediately put my life jacket on and made sure it fit," a 59-year-old man told the DNR after being rescued last month from Foote Pond, located in Oscoda County. This summer, Michigan DNR conservation officers and McDonald's are working together to encourage all boaters, particularly youth boaters, to wear their life jackets while boating.
The man, whose name was not released by the DNR, was fishing Foote Pond and lost his balance when he stood up to stretch, and fell into the cold water. Weighed down by his thick coat, he knew he wouldn't be able to swim, despite considering himself an average swimmer. After several minutes in the cold water, the man couldn't hold onto the capsized boat any longer and decided he was going to give up - until he heard rescue boats in the distance.
"It changed my life 180 degrees, there are certain things I remember - your officer reached out and said, "give me your hand, I won't let go," he said. Drowning is the cause of death in 79 percent of all boating-related fatalities, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.
Boating Safety Tips
Wear a life jacket.
Boat sober.
Make sure your boat is operating properly before leaving shore.
Have a float plan and carry a two-way communication device.
Stay alert.
