Coast Guard issues boating and paddling safety alert for Northeast's deadliest boating holiday

BOSTON — The Coast Guard is advising all boaters and paddlers venturing out on the water this Fourth of July weekend to be responsible and prudent mariners, save the alcohol for when the trip is complete and maintain a constant safety vigil.

The Fourth of July holiday is not only the busiest boating period of the year, but it also holds the tragic distinction of being the deadliest, both nationwide and in the Northeastern United States.

Over the past dozen July 4th holidays, 40 fatalities have occurred on waters throughout the Northeast First Coast Guard District. Of these deaths, 21 occurred in motorboats, seven on personal watercraft, seven in canoes, three on sailboats and one each from aboard a pedal boat and a rowboat.

“The three factors in these fatal events involved falling overboard, vessels capsizing and single or multi-vessel collisions, alcohol was involved in 14 events that claimed 18 lives,” said Al Johnson, the recreational boating specialist for the First Coast Guard District in Boston.

“Alcohol has been involved in 45% of our Fourth of July holiday fatalities,” Johnson said, “and it impairs your ability to operate a vehicle or vessel. If you plan to use alcohol to fuel your high-spirited celebration of our country’s independence, be realistic and responsible – stay off the road, stay off the water.”

Additionally, the Northeast First Coast Guard District has suffered the loss of 16 boaters and 15 paddlers as of the end of June. “This is the highest number of deaths we’ve had at this time in the 13 years I’ve been tracking recreational boating and paddling fatalities,” said Johnson. “It’s truly cause for concern.”

“On the brighter side and with nice summer weather forecasted for the weekend, whether you’re captain of your vessel, a ride-along passenger, an experienced sailor or casual paddler, awareness is the key ingredient for this holiday period," said Johnson. "You can relax and enjoy your time on the water, but be aware of what’s going on around you, the weather, the status of your vessel and passengers, as well as the proximity of other vessels – be prepared.

The best insurance for surviving most sudden water emergencies is simply wearing a life jacket, said Johnson. There are a wide variety of comfortable, Coast Guard-approved life jackets available. Johnson emphasizes that it is not just important to have a lifejacket for each passenger aboard the watercraft; the key is to wear your life jacket – set the example and minimize the risk. Remember, when you need your life jacket you need it on.

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