Moose Droppings

The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission reminds boaters to be safe on the waterways and to be prepared for emergencies.

“Before that first trip, take time to prepare,” Capt. Huebner said. “A few minutes beforehand inspecting equipment and getting ready could save many hours of distress and possible injury later. Wildlife officers will patrol the waterways across North Carolina to ensure safety, performing vessel inspections and watching for intoxicated and dangerous boaters.”

Capt. Chris Huebner, NCWRC Boating Safety Coordinator

The NCWRC offers some online resources for boaters like a safety checklist and vessel operators guide in addition to finding out about boating safety courses.
There are two on line classes’ available one exclusively for NC; Boat Ed and another online program that meets the requirements for many other states besides NC is Amboat. Both of these allow you to pay on line, take the class and also complete the test for a certification.

Additionally boaters are urged to follow these other recommendations;

Wildlife officers who patrol the state’s waterways also recommend:
• Wear a Life Vest: Everyone should, but children younger than 13 are required by law to wear a proper personal floatation device. In an emergency, wearing a life vest can be a lifesaver.
• Boat Safe, Boat Sober: Alcohol consumption can prove dangerous for operators and passengers. State law sets a .08 blood-alcohol level as intoxicated and illegal for operating boats and motor vehicles.
• Free Boating Education: Courses are offered at no charge across the state by the Wildlife Resources Commission. Completion also certifies anyone between the ages of 14 and 16 to operate a personal watercraft in North Carolina.
• Blue Light = No Wake: A vessel within 100 feet of a law enforcement vessel displaying flashing blue lights must slow to a no-wake speed. In narrow channels, the distance is 50 feet.

Enjoy the Water Safely

Story by Dan McLaughlin AKA Moose