Coast Guard Reminds Boaters Life Jackets Save Lives
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JACKSONVILLE (AP) — With a hot Memorial Day weekend predicted, Coast Guard and other officials are reminding boaters to wear life jackets while on the water.
Coast Guard Capt. Andy Blomme tells the Florida Times-Union that rescue crews recover people in boating accidents who are not wearing vests, even though they had them with them in their vessels.
Statistics show that 65 people died in 620 boating accidents in 2009, the last year data was available, in Florida.
The Coast Guard, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and others have been touring local docks and waterways as part of their "Life Jackets for Life" tour to remind people of the dangers.
Blomme says new life jackets are made in multiple sizes, are comfortable and can save your life.
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