Enjoying Minnesota’s lakes and rivers by paddle or motorboat is a
wonderful privilege. That privilege comes with serious responsibilities.
Fun boating is safe boating, so please follow these Top Five Boating Tips
- Wear your life jacket and make sure children wear theirs.
- Stay sober. Booze and boating don’t mix. Alcohol is the #1 factor in
boating fatalities. - Tell a friend. Tell someone where you’re going and when you will
be back. If you’re not back, they should call 911. Bring a phone or
VHF radio. - Be weather aware. Don’t let a storm sneak up on you — delay your
trip or head to shore. Go slow in rough water to avoid capsizing. - Boat smart. Take a boating safety course. Know your boat; stay
alert while scanning for dangers; stay seated and low in the boat to
prevent falls overboard.