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National Safe Boating Week and Media Ride-Along
Richmond, VA — National Safe Boating Week is May 18 – 24 and the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) reminds all boaters to stay safe this summer and always wear a life jacket while on the water. No matter where you boat–from large lakes and rivers to small farm ponds—wearing a life jacket is essential for safety!
While preparing for the season, boaters should make sure they have U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets in good condition that fit every occupant of the boat, including children. Safe boating week is a great time to inspect your gear, including your inflatable life jacket. Inflatable life jackets make it easy for adults to “Wear It” while enjoying their time on the water and being a good role model for young people on their boats.
“As the law enforcement division of the primary boating agency of the Commonwealth, we strive to promote a safe environment for everyone that enjoys recreating on the water. To be as effective as possible, we need your help. Please check your safety equipment at the dock, tell someone when to expect you back, make sure your vessel is seaworthy, be weather aware, and always designate an operator if there is alcohol aboard,” says DWR Major Ryan Shuler. “We want everyone to have fun and be safe!”
No matter what time of year you go boating, always put safety first while planning your trip. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. When planning your trip, always be weather aware. Check the forecast while planning your trip and double check it before departing. Weather conditions and a marine forecast can be found on the National Weather Service website and the United States Geological Survey has water temperatures for many inland lakes and rivers. Also, know your vessel and have a plan to re-board your boat in case the unexpected happens and you end up in the water.
To learn more about boating in Virginia, including information on applicable laws, education and water safety, please visit the DWR boating webpage. Remember, everyone wants to have a safe, enjoyable day on the water. Do your part by wearing your life jacket and taking a boating safety education course.
Be responsible, be safe and have fun! #RecreateResponsibly
Media Ride-Along plus interviews:
Richmond
- Monday, May 20, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Osborne Landing Boat Ramp
- 9530 Osborne Turnpike, Richmond, VA 23231
- Tuesday, May 21, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Mariners Landing Boat Ramp
- 1217 Graves Harbor Trail, Huddleston, VA 24104
If you are interested in participating, please email and schedule a time. If you plan on participating in the ride-along, please wear comfortable clothing and shoes appropriate for boating.
DWR welcomes members of the media to join us to talk boating and water safety during this extremely important week. Your partnership in getting these life-saving messages to the public is vitally important.
ALWAYS WEAR YOUR LIFE JACKET. IT WILL SAVE YOUR LIFE.