OHIOANS ENCOURAGED TO WEAR LIFE JACKETS WHILE ON THE WATER: OH

COLUMBUS, OH --Ohio's 3 million boaters are urged to "Boat Smart,
Boat Safe, Wear It" as part of a new national campaign to promote the use of
life jackets while on the water, according to the Ohio Department of Natural
Resources (ODNR).
The campaign will kick off during National Safe Boating Week, May
17-23 - just in time for the Memorial Day weekend, the traditional start of
Ohio's summer boating season. The National Safe Boating Council spearheads
Safe Boating Week each year in an effort to reduce accidents on the
country's recreational waterways.
Most mishaps can be avoided by observing a few basic boating
rules:
* Always wear an approved U.S. Coast Guard life jacket properly when
boating.
* Avoid alcohol consumption.
* Be prepared to handle or assist in an emergency situation.
* Don't overload a boat with passengers and gear.
* Observe the "rules of the road" when operating a boat on any
waterway.
* File a float plan with a responsible person before heading out.
* Be alert to all existing and forecasted weather conditions.
State watercraft officers, in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard,
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the U.S. Power Squadrons and some local marine
patrol units around Ohio, will also conduct courtesy boat safety inspections
during May. To obtain information on these inspections, public service
announcements for broadcast media, safe boating tips and information on
boater education courses, visit the ODNR web site at ohiodnr.com .

Source: ODNR