NEW YORK — Coast Guard Station Fire Island’s boatcrew conducted recreational boardings ensuring boaters were safely operating their vessels in Great South Bay, Long Island, N.Y., Monday.
Throughout the day, Station Fire Island’s boarding team boarded several recreational vessels checking for required safety equipment on board. Many of the boardings were informative for the operators who were unfamilar with their vessel carriage requirements.
One of the vessels boarded by Station Fire Island’s boarding team resulted in termination of the voyage due to numerous safety violations, such as unserviceable lifejackets, a faulty fire extinguisher and no documentation.
“It’s just as important to have your safety gear serviceable as it is to have it on board,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Eric Ryan, a Station Fire Island boarding team member.
The Coast Guard urges boaters to safely operate their vessel and check their equipment prior to heading on the water. Knowing how to use the required safety equipment and wearing a Coast Guard approved lifejacket can save your life in the event of an emergency.
