Waterway Officials Promote Boater Safety, Offer Free Classes

Summertime temperatures surely have many residents beelining for North Avenue beach or Diversey Harbor.

But Chicago officials, the U.S. Coast Guard and boating industry stakeholders are asking that they first take a moment to remember the fundamentals of boating safety including the need for life jackets, to ensure boats are safe and secure and to not drink and drive.

This week marks National Safe Boating Week, which seeks to promote a safe and enjoyable summer on the city's waterways.

A total of 651 boaters died on U.S. waterways in 2012, according to Coast Guard statistics. Among those, the 379 of the 459 people who drowned were not wearing a life jacket. Small recreational vessels, including paddle boats, are the most vulnerable—Seven of every 10 boaters who drowned were using boats less than 21 feet in length.

Alcohol use is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents, police say. It’s responsible for 17 percent of boater deaths and vessel collisions are the most common accident type.

Join North Side Patch for more neighborhood news. It's free!

“We must strive to make use of every opportunity to raise the public’s awareness about staying safe while on or in the water," said Rear Adm. Michael Parks, commander of the Ninth Coast Guard District. “People need to think of everyday as boating and water safety day."

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is promoting its free vessel examinations and boat safety information classes available throughout the region.

"A Vessel Safety Check is your best way of learning about problems that might put you in violation of state or federal laws or, worse, create danger for you or your passengers on the water," Chicago Police representatives said, in a news release. "Many boating safety courses are offered throughout the area, for all types of recreational boaters, and for boaters of all ages."

Courses cover many aspects of boating safety, from boat handling to reading the weather, and from a "Water 'N Kids" class to courses for boaters who want to learn electronic navigation skills. 

Check out the Coast Guard's site for more information.

Follow us on Facebook: Lincoln Park / Lake View / Lincoln Square / Bucktown-Wicker Park /North Center-Roscoe Village