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Public Information Statement
National Weather Service Burlington VT
329 AM EDT Sat May 18 2024

...National Safe Boating Week is May 19th Through May 25th...

NOAA`s National Weather Service is proud to join and support the
United States Coast Guard, The National Safe Boating Council,
local power squadrons and local mariners in declaring the week of
May 19th through May 25th, 2024 as National Safe Boating Week.

The annual safe boating campaign is an opportunity to bring
awareness to precautions and safety measures needed, in order to
have an enjoyable and safe boating experience.

Recreational boating is fun and enjoyable. However, ignoring
navigation rules, operation of a vessel under the impairment of
alcohol or drugs, hazardous weather and not properly wearing a
life vest leads to an average of 600 to 700 deaths annually.

If you follow a few simple rules, your boating experience can be
safe and enjoyable. The number one rule is always wear a life
jacket. This simple decision could be vital in saving your life
should a boating accident occur. Also, do not consume alcohol or
drugs that will impair your judgment.

Also be mindful to plan ahead. Be familiar with your expected
surroundings, follow navigation charts, travel during daylight
only if not equipped for nighttime travel, and listen to NOAA
Weather Radio All Hazards before and during your excursion for
possible hazardous weather.

Remember, boating season is relatively short in the North Country.
Therefore, to maximize your enjoyment during this time just follow
some simple basics by boating smart, boating safe, and boating
sober.

Again, listen to NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards for the latest
forecasts, warnings, and Lake Champlain open waters forecast.

$$