FWC officials remind divers and boaters to stay safe while scalloping

GULF COUNTY, Fla. ( WMBB ) – Panhandle scallop season is here, and wildlife officials are trying to keep the extra boaters and divers safe. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers are asking boaters to be more aware of divers in the water.

“We want to avoid people getting struck by props. We want to avoid boating accidents, any sort of tragedies that can happen,” Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Public Information Officer Chris Boley said.

Divers are required to display diver-down flags on their boats, signaling to other vessels that there are people in the water.

“That flag is going to have to be from the highest point of your vessel being able to be seen 360 degrees. That flag on your vessel has to be at least 20 by 24 inches, and anyone that is in the water has to stay within 100 yards of that vessel,” Boley said.

The flags must be in good condition as well.

“Make sure it’s not dirty, make sure it’s not tattered or faded. Make sure that it is in good, serviceable condition and that it has a stiffening device as well,” Boley said.

But the flags don’t help if boaters don’t heed the warning.

“If you’re going to be within a hundred yards, come down to idle speed. Make sure that you’re looking for people in the water because even though you may know the rules, someone may swim farther away from their boat than they’re supposed to. Always be out looking for heads in the water and making sure that you’re always keeping your head on a swivel,” Boley added.

Failure to comply with diver flag rules can result in a fine. Reckless boating near divers will earn you criminal charges.

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