The Coast Guard want to remind you to practice careful cruising. Last Sunday marked the 95th-annual “Opening Day on the Bay,” ushering many boats, boards, and bodies into our beautiful Bay. The news isn’t all good, though: because of the great weather and aquatic sports enthusiasts’ eagerness, the Coast Guard predicts an uptick in dangerous incidents that could end in rescue, or worse.
The Coast Guard conducted seven rescues last Friday and Saturday, all to retrieve stranded kiteboarders. Last year, they had 1,557 area search and rescue cases, many are due to fatigue from kiteboarders and windsurfers who just don’t know their limits.
Two recent deaths, one a 44-year-old surf instructor and the other a 53-year-old boater, in also highlight the importance of aquatic safety.
Those wanting to avoid trouble should observe these simple tips, provided by Coast Guard spokeswoman Lt. j.g. Laura Williams to the Ex: tell someone where you’re going, wear a life jacket, and bring a handheld marine-based radio on your voyage in case of emergencies.
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