6 Tips For Boating Safely In Huntington Township

 1. Take a NYS Safe Boating Course- All individuals born on or after 5/1/96 are now required to successfully complete an approved course in boater education in order to operate a motorboat. Approved courses include those offered by NYS Parks, the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, or the US Power Squadrons.  Check out boating safety courses closest to you. Be sure to understand Brianna's Law.

2. Wear a life vest- The U.S. Coast Guard estimates that life jackets could have saved the lives of over 80 percent of boating fatality victims.

3. Check the weather & the tides- never leave the dock without checking the overall forecast for the day. Weather can change rapidly so if you notice darker skies, choppy water or lightning- get to land. Also important is to know whether you will be traveling at high tide or low tide to avoid unexpected obstacles or even beaching. Check out our digital tide charts 

4. Got Propellers? Propeller awareness- know the location of your propellers and make sure your boat is off before passengers board or exit.  Be aware of swimming zones and cautious near boats that are towing water skiers.

5. BUI (Boating Under the Influence)- is illegal on ALL Boats including canoes, rowboats all the way to the largest ships. Alcohol is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents.

6.  Follow the Huntington Safe Boating Week Facebook page for updates on the watercraft community. You can also save the date for Huntington Safe Boating Week which includes free classes, lectures, vessel safety inspections and the Annual Waterfront Festival at Mill Dam Park in Halesite, showcasing boat dealers, pre-owned boats and nautical equipment, vendors selling boat supplies, nautical décor and crafts overlooking beautiful Huntington Harbor!