What accident causes the most deaths among boaters?
Falls overboard and capsizing. In a small boat, resist the urge to stand up. If you must move around, keep your weight low and close to the center of the craft. Wear your personal flotation device (PFD or life jacket), especially in small boats. Approved PFDs are now stylish, comfortable and practical. Models are available for all ages and for various boating activities. Wearing your PFD is the best “life insurance” policy afloat. Collisions with a second boat or another object don’t just happen. They are usually the result of inattention, fatigue, and a lack of knowledge about local water conditions. Keep an eye on the weather, especially on larger lakes such as Mille Lacs, Leech, Lake of the Woods, or Superior. Obtain up-to-date weather information from a marine band radio, AM radio, or by simply watching the sky. (Most bad weather in Minnesota comes from the west or southwest.) If you are caught in rough weather, put on your PFD, keep low in your boat and head for the closest shore.
