Boating season is just around the bend, and folks are getting geared up for it. Many boaters fail to follow the rules while on the water. Did you know that one of the highest boating fatality rates belongs to those who hunt or fish from boats? Whether you’re new to boating or have been doing it for years, please take time to read these safety tips. It just might save a life.

Check the weather. Sudden wind shifts, lightning flashes and choppy water all can mean a storm is brewing. Bring a portable radio to check weather reports.

Extra gear you may need: A flashlight, extra batteries, matches, a map of where you are, flares, sunscreen, first aid kit, extra sunglasses. Items that need to be protected can be placed in a watertight pouch or a floating container.

Always tell someone where you are going, who you are with, and how long you will be gone. If something were to happen to you, someone would know where to look. Then check your boat, equipment, boat balance, engine, and fuel supply before leaving.

Ventilate after fueling. Open hatches, run blower, and most importantly, carefully check for gasoline fumes in the fuel and engine areas before starting your engine.

Stay dry and warm. Wear several layers of light clothing and bring rain gear.

Keep gear clean and well packed. A loose fish hook can cause a lot of pain and ruin a great outing. Bring extra rope to secure boat or equipment.

When changing seats, stay low and near the centerline of a small boat. Be ready for trouble when a powerboat passes you in a narrow channel. As the lead boat (which always has the right of way) stay on your side of the channel and maintain a steady speed so that the overtaking vessel can pass you safely. Use your radio to discuss this with the passing boat.

Anchor from bow, not stern. Your anchor rope should be five times the depth of the water where you are boating.

Take a safe boating course. As an extra benefit, you may earn lower boat insurance costs.

Any person born after June 30, 1980 must complete a Boating Safety Course to operate a boat.

Persons under 12 years of age must be accompanied by a person 21 or older in order to operate the boat.

For persons who wish to learn more about Mississippi Boating Basics and the legal and safe practices for boat operators, a six hour instructor taught course is available for groups. The Mississippi Boating Basics home-study course or Internet Course is available for persons who are unable to attend an instructor taught course. Most insurance companies honor these courses by offering reductions in insurance premiums on completion.

Mississippi offers the option for titling boats and motors. This is not a mandatory requirement, however, a more complete record will be obtained for boat owners. A ten dollar fee will be charged for original applications, duplicates or transfers.

For more information related to boating and Boating Safety Classes, call 601-432-2181 or write to: BOATING ENFORCEMENT, P. O. Box 451, Jackson, MS 39205-0451.