Say NO to bow riding

Captains,

This is a worthwhile cause. Let your fellow boater know that bow riding is dangerous.

RADM W

Coast Guard starts new boating safety operation

PORTSMOUTH, Va. – The Coast Guard is scheduled to begin an effort to improve boating safety in the 5th District beginning Sunday, to increase awareness of the dangers associated with bow riding and negligent operation, and ending in September.

In 2008, there were 65 boating fatalities recorded in the 5th District with 20 percent of the fatalities being directly linked to bow riding. These statistics do not include the injuries incurred while bow riding.

“You wouldn’t allow your kids to sit of the hood of your car, so why would you allow them to sit on the bow of your boat?” said Rear Adm. Dean Lee, 5th District commander.

The Coast Guard is urging the boating public to think twice before allowing their friends and family members to carelessly bow ride.