5/25/2011
SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of the recreational boating season for West Virginia and surrounding states. West Virginia has been consistently one of the leading states in boating fatalities per registered boaters. Already this year West Virginia has had four boating fatalities. Three of the four deaths were related to alcohol.
The W.Va. Division of Natural Resources’ Law Enforcement Section is dedicated to making boating safer for all to enjoy.
In this effort they have purchased six additional new patrol boats for the waters of the state with plans to buy more.
“Our Natural Resources Police Officers have had updated their training and are eager to get out there to make sure everyone is safe while enjoying this holiday weekend and for the rest of the summer,” said Lt. Tim Coleman, who heads DNR’s Boating Safety Education program.
Like any other sport, safe boating requires good planning before you are on the water.
• Make sure your boat and trailer maintenance are up to date.
• Make sure your boat is equipped with all the required safety equipment and that it is in good condition, i.e., life jackets are not torn or raveled, are the right sizes for your passengers, your fire extinguisher is fully charged, and your distress signals are fully operational.
•
Alcohol and boat operation do not mix. Appoint a Sober Skipper!
• Most important is that you take a
Boating Safety Education Course.
For more information on boating safety courses and WV Boating Regulations go to
www.wvdnr.gov.
Contact Information
Lt. Tim Coleman, Law Enforcement Section
304-558-2784
DNR.Law@wv.gov