ALCOHOL USE #1 CONTRIBUTING FACTOR IN BOATING FATALITIES

According to the most recent U.S. Coast Guard statistics alcohol use is ranked number one as a contributing factor in fatal boating accidents in the United States. There were 133 alcohol use related boating fatalities in 2006 (latest statistics available) this is more than doubles the second highest ranking contributing factor; hazardous waters which contributed to 63 boating fatalities. Operator inattention ranked third with 51 fatalities.

What is alarming is that statistics show that responsible boaters can take a few simple steps to prevent most serious problems while on the water:

• Always wear a lifejacket since even though the factors listed above contribute to boating fatalities, ultimately drowning is the cause of death by far. Wearing a lifejacket alone will substantially reduce the likelihood a boating accident will result in a fatality.
• Take a boating safety class
• Avoid alcohol or drugs while boating

The Coast Guard Auxiliary provides instruction to boaters at all levels, from the fundamental to the advanced. The courses are taught by experienced and knowledgeable instructors committed to the highest standards of the U.S. Coast Guard. For more information about Coast Guard Auxiliary safety classes please visit http://nws.cgaux.org/visitors/pe_visitor/index.html.

For more boating accident statistics visit the U.S. Coast Guard’s Office of Boating Safety website at http://www.uscgboating.org/

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian component of the United States Coast Guard. Created by an Act of Congress in 1939, the Auxiliary directly supports the Coast Guard in all missions, except military and direct law enforcement actions. The Coast Guard’s motto is SEMPER PARATUS (ALWAYS READY). The Coast Guard Auxiliary is an integral part of the United Sates Coast Guard.