Think safety when boating with kids

Many people think all tragic boating accidents occur far out at sea. This is not the case. Nine out of 10 boating-related drownings occur in inland waters, most within a few feet of safety. Most of these victims had life jackets with them but were not wearing them.

You can help keep your children safe by insisting they wear life jackets whenever they are in a boat. In addition, make sure your family follows the life jacket safety advice below:

• Always wear a life jacket when on any type of boat.
• Children should not go onto a boat without an adult.
• Learn how to swim.
• Take a boating safety course.
• Do not run, push or play on a boat.
• Stay low and in the middle of smaller boats so you don't tip over.
• Do not ride the bow on motorboats.
• Do not ride or play on the swimming platform of larger boats.
• Be aware of where the propeller is.
• Watch the weather. Stop boating and return to shore as soon as you see or hear a storm.
• Never mix boating and alcohol; it can reduce your reaction time and ability to respond in an emergency.