National Safe Boating Week runs May 22-28, and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission urges the public to make safety on the water a top priority.

The Wildlife Commission reported a 13% increase in ship registrations between May and December 2020 and a 10% increase in ship registrations in the first four months of 2021.

The surge in registrations is likely to result in more boats on the water this year.

Captain Brandon Jones said they had seen an increase in activity in the boat’s access areas since COVID restrictions were put in place last year. “People choose to relax outdoors, and that means our state’s waterways are likely to be overcrowded.”

With COVID restrictions now lifted, there is a strong desire to travel and spend time with friends and family on the water as the warmer weather approaches.

Newbies and beginners are asked to take the following precautions:

  • Always wear a life jacket or a Coast Guard approved personal flotation device: Before entering the boat, be sure to put on a life jacket and ensure that it does not move over your chin or ears when you lift it by your shoulders.
  • Choose a specific driver for the boat: Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol is illegal and just as dangerous as driving an impaired car.
  • Assign an adult “water guard” to actively supervise children in or around the water at all times: small children and people who are not strong swimmers should always be kept within reach.
  • Only swim in designated areas: people are less visible to boaters and more prone to accidents. Avoid diving in unfamiliar areas as there may be hidden structures.
  • Throw, Don’t Walk: Be ready to throw a flotation device and use a pole or branch to reach someone who is fighting in the water.
  • Take a Boater Safety Course: The Wildlife Commission offers many boating training courses. If you were born on or after January 1, 1988, you must complete an approved course before operating a ship powered by an engine of 10 horsepower or greater.

Boaters can further protect the water systems and protect the water by following these basic steps:

  • Clean equipment for all aquatic plants, animals and mud.
  • Drain water from boats, wells, and all equipment.
  • Thoroughly dry all equipment.
  • Never move fish, plants or other aquatic organisms from one body of water to another.

If you are interested in boating safety and practices, visit website for more informations.

Petruce Jean-Charles is a reporter for the Government Guard. They are interested in what is going on in the community and are open to tips on people, companies and topics. Contact Petruce at pjeancharles@gannett.com and follow @PetruceKetsia on Twitter.