As the summer season begins, Watch Hill Firefighters are partnering with the Westerly Police Department, the United States Coast Guard, and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management to remind all boaters to please use caution and to please boat responsibly.

PLEASE FOLLOW THESE SAFETY GUIDELINES!

Life jackets save lives. Always Wear them!

Have a marine VHF radio while underway. Cell phones are not always reliable.

Label your paddle craft with an “If Found” sticker.

Ensure your fire extinguishers and flares readily accessible and are not expired.

Be responsible and only boat while sober.

File a float plan by letting someone know where you are going and when you plan to return.

Download the USCG boating application for useful boating safety information.

Check the weather before getting underway and always boat within your limits.

In addition, boaters are responsible for knowing and complying with their state and local public health policies and are encouraged to check with their local marinas and city or town offices for any specific COVID-19 related restrictions, before going out on the water.

Please make sure you boat responsibly and keep you and your family safe by staying up to date on the latest COVID-19 guidance including

• Follow all state quarantine requirements and waterway regulations or restrictions.
• Do not boat if you feel sick or if you are in the high-risk category.
• Maintain social distancing while boating.
• Boat only with non-sick household family members.
• Do not raft-off to other boats.
• Do not share food or drink.

For more information, please visit www.USCGboating.com