The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is emphasizing boater safety as Labor Day weekend approaches. This period traditionally marks the unofficial end of summer, prompting many Florida residents and visitors to take to the water. FWC officers will be on heightened patrol during the holiday weekend, focusing on identifying reckless or impaired vessel operators and other hazardous boating behaviors.
Last year, no fatalities were reported during this busy boating weekend. FWC officers removed nearly 20 unsafe and impaired vessel operators from Florida's waterways for boating under the influence. They issued over 380 citations and provided education and warnings to more than 2,800 boaters for various safety violations.
“I would like nothing more than to report that there were no boating accident fatalities again this year,” said Col. Brian Smith, Director of FWC’s Law Enforcement Division. “However, it has been a deadly summer on Florida waters, despite the efforts of FWC and our local partners. 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 help minimize accidents, the FWC advises boaters to stay alert, maintain 360-degree awareness at all times, and consider taking a boater safety course. Statistics show that over 80% of operators involved in fatal boating accidents in 2023 had not received formal boater education. Information about Florida’s regulations and available courses can be found at MyFWC.com/Boating.
Additionally, those renting boats or personal watercraft are reminded to familiarize themselves with Florida’s boating safety regulations and ensure they rent from permitted liveries. More details about liveries are available at MyFWC.com/Boating under “Livery Regulations and Safety Information.”
To report dangerous boating activity anonymously, individuals can text 847411 (Tip411) with the keyword “FWC” followed by location details or call 888-404-FWCC (3922).