'Deadly Summer on the Water': FWC Urges Boating Safety Ahead of Labor Day Weekend

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As Labor Day weekend approaches, marking the unofficial end of summer, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is stepping up efforts to ensure safety on the state's waterways. After a "deadly" season on Florida waters, officers will be out in full force, watching for reckless or impaired boat operators and enforcing boating regulations to keep the public safe.

According to the FWC's press release, last year saw zero boating fatalities during the holiday weekend, thanks in part to officers who removed nearly 20 impaired operators from the water and issued over 380 citations. Officers also provided safety education and warnings to more than 2,800 boaters.

“I would like nothing more than to report that there were no boating accident fatalities again this year,” Col. Brian Smith, FWC Law Enforcement Division Director was quoted as saying in the release. “However, it has been a deadly summer on Florida waters, despite the efforts of FWC and our local partners."

To prevent accidents, the FWC is urging boaters to stay alert, maintain full awareness, and take a boater safety course. Shockingly, over 80% of those involved in fatal boating accidents in 2023 had no formal boating education. More information on regulations and safety courses is available at MyFWC.com/Boating.

The FWC also reminds anyone renting boats or personal watercraft this weekend to be familiar with boating regulations and only rent from permitted liveries. Further information on livery regulations is available at the FWC’s website.

" We will take every opportunity to remind boaters to designate an operator who will remain sober, and we can never say this enough, please wear a life jacket while on the water. We want everyone to enjoy this holiday weekend, but nothing can ruin a great day on the water faster than a boating accident. FWC is asking you to do your part to reduce boating accidents.”

To report unsafe boating, the public can submit tips anonymously by texting 847411 with the keyword “FWC” and details, or by calling 888-404-FWCC (3922).