May 15, 2008
Patrick Hale and his crew always get their PFDs on when they head out for a day of boating. From the back of the boat forward, from left to right: Patrick Hale, Patrick Hale II, Mickey Nash, Angel, and Laura Joseph. File photo by Teresa Markham.
Boating Safety
As every experienced boater knows, traveling on the river can be full of surprises. Whether it's sudden winds producing large swells or a huge log unexpectedly blocking our path, we never know what Mother Nature will have in store for us.
Sometimes these surprises can have disastrous outcomes. We can hope for the best, but if the worst happens, we better be prepared. Below you'll find a few tips to help you just in case you come across some unexpected surprises out on the river this summer.
Before you begin your trip, tell a responsible person what your plans are. If you go missing, he/she can get help.
Always wear a personal flotation device (PFD)! Last year fewer than 44 percent of the 400 boaters observed by YKHC's Injury Prevention Program were wearing PFDs, and only 34 percent had it on correctly.
Each year, many people drown in Alaska. In fact, on average more than six people die from drowning in the YK Delta each year, and many more are hospitalized from nearly drowning.
Even if you think you don't need to wear a PFD, you'll be setting a good example for younger boaters to follow.
Bring along some extra survival gear like food, water, and shelter (tent and/or raingear). You never know when you'll have to stay somewhere longer than anticipated.
Rules of the River
Driving on the river has rules similar to driving on the road. These rules are set by the Coast Guard and were designed to help you avoid colliding with other boats. They're especially important when traveling on the narrow tributaries containing twisted channels that make it difficult to see around. Stay as far starboard (to the right) as possible, and boaters traveling against the current must yield to boats traveling with the current. This will help you avoid hitting another boat around the corner.
If you would like to learn more to help you prepare for this summer's trips, please contact the YKHC Injury Prevention program at 1-800- 478-6599. Be safe and have a great summer!