The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources wants people to have a safe and enjoyable time on Wisconsin’s waterways, and to avoid mishaps this July 4th, DNR boating safety specialists Roy Zellmer asks boaters to consider these 10 tips:

It’s a long day: A full day in the in sun will increase alcohol’s effects on the body, so it’s better to wait until you’re safely back at the dock or home before breaking out the libations. Also bring lots of water, a VHF radio, and check the weather reports to avoid storms.

It’s a long day, for the boat, too: As the firework shows end many boaters will find themselves needing jump starts. Running electronics all day such as sound systems, fans, or other appliances and failing to monitor battery usage could leave your boat dead in the water when it’s time to go home.

Running the engine to charge the batteries: Raft-ups, or groups of boats tied together in a protected anchorage, is a great way to spend the holiday with fellow boating friends. But you should never run an engine with swimmers in the water or near exhaust ports. Even though the boat’s transmission may not be in gear, propellers can still rotate, and odorless, colorless carbon monoxide can quickly overcome swimmers.

Trailer problems: Flat tires and burnt bearings are the two biggest causes for boat trailer breakdowns. What shape are yours in? Make sure your boat maintenance is up to date.

Don’t overload your boat: Capsizing and falls overboard account for over half of all boating fatalities. Resist the urge to invite more friends or family to the fireworks show than what your boat was designed to carry. Heavily loaded small boats, and those with little freeboard such as bass boats, are more susceptible to swamping from weather or wake action associated with heavy July 4th boating traffic.

Wear life jackets: 70 percent of all fatal boating accident victims drowned, and of those, 87 percent were not wearing a life jacket. Accidents can happen very quickly, sometimes leaving no time to don a life jacket.

Follow the rules of the road: If a boat is approaching your vessel from your starboard (right) side, do you know what to do?* What happens when a light on another vessel “changes” from red to green?* Brush up now before you head out.

Patience: The lines at boat launch ramps – in the parking lot or the water – can resemble a Southern California freeway at rush hour. Be patient, ready to go when it’s your turn, and follow good boating etiquette.

Take your time to get home: July 4th is the one time each year many fair-weather boaters – who may rarely navigate in the dark – venture out after the sun goes down. The most reported type of boating accident is a collision with another vessel so it’s a good idea to keep your speed down, post an extra lookout, and ensure all your navigation lights work. A spotlight is a must, and ensure all safety gear is readily available. Be extra vigilant about not running over anchor lines in crowded fireworks viewing areas, and don’t take shortcuts in the dark.

Celebrate: Hey, its America’s birthday and you’re on the water! Be safe, be prepared and have fun!

A copy of Wisconsin boating regulations (pdf, 615kb) is available on the law enforcement pages of the DNR Web site.

*If a boat is approaching your vessel from your starboard (right) side in a crossing situation, the boat on the right is the privileged boat and has the right-of-way. The boat on the left shall slow and/or change course to cross behind the privileged boat to avoid collision.

What happens when a light on another vessel “changes” from red to green? Motorboats must be equiped with a red light on the left (port) side and a green light on the right (starboard) side of the front of the boat, so this would indicate the approaching boat has begun to veer to the right.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Roy Zellmer at 608) 264-8970