Authorities Urge Boating Safety As Independence Day Celebrations Get Underway On The Water

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- With the Fourth of July just days away, those who patrol our waterways are warning boaters to stay sober, and brush up on how to stay safe on the water.

Pam Seiter lives on a house boat, but she doesn't venture out on the holidays.

"We will stay in the marina we don't go out because it's too crazy there are too many new boaters out there," she said.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources Police on Wednesday spread potentially life-saving advice as new boaters look to enjoy the water this vacation weekend.

Pay attention to the weather and your surroundings, only operate a boat when you're sober, and of course, always have a life jacket.

"You should have a Coast Guard approved life jacket that fits you according to your weight and shape on the boat with you, and it's cricial to have one that you can throw out to anyone who goes overboard," said Col. Adrian Baker.

While it may be a weekend to celebrate, police said there should always be a designated driver on the boat.

And a life saving device all boaters should have: a radio.

"We prefer a VHF radio, a cell phone you talk to one person, but a VHF you reach many, you can talk to the Coast Guard and get help," he said.