Saginaw Man's Brush with Death Offers Lessons in Boating Safety

David Mittleman — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 10:00:00 GMT

A 61-year-old Saginaw man had planned a fun summer getaway: he was going to kayak from Michigan State University to Grand Rapids. He was barely on his way when his plans soon took a turn for the worse when his kayak flipped over in the Red Cedar River. Luckily, prior to starting his journey, he was wise enough to place his cell phone in a plastic bag. This move saved his life, as he was able to call 911 from his cell phone, which allowed authorities to locate him—he was lodged in some branches in a section of river near Aurelius and Mt. Hope roads.

However, not all boaters are so lucky, says the Michigan Association of Insurance Agents. In fact, boating deaths reached a six-year high in 2008 with 36 deaths—up from 35 in the previous year. Since boating is a popular summer activity, it is important to keep the following safety tips to keep in mind:

· Wear a life jacket.
· Avoid alcoholic beverages.
· Complete a boating safety course, no matter what your age.
· Be especially careful on personal watercraft.
· Don’t overload your boat.
· Have a passenger serve as a lookout in addition to the boat operator.
· Operate at a safe speed.
· Look out for low water levels or submerged objects.

The Michigan State Police also warn that you should not jump in after someone to save them from drowning—that should always remain a last resort. In fact, both people may end up drowning because we aren’t aware of our limitations and the exhaustion that quickly sets in when trying to hold someone up. However, the MSU Police do recommend putting your cell phone in a plastic bag—it could save your life, the same way it saved this man’s life.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by David Mittleman

Boating Safety Tips: How To Have A Fun & Safe Summer

David Mittleman — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 11:41:34 GMT

Michigan is fortunate to have an abundance of inland lakes, streams, and rivers, in addition to the Great Lakes. As the weather gets warmer, many Michigan residents will be spending the summer cruising around on a boat. In Michigan there are over 939,000 registered boats on file with the Secretary of State.

Although Michigan does not require a separate license to operate a boat, there are many differences between driving a car and a boat. However, boaters between the ages of 12 and 16 need a Boater Safety Certificate to operate a boat in Michigan. Here are a few safety tips to help keep your summer boating activities safe for you, your family and friends.

* Make sure you wear a life jacket. The United States Coast Guard estimates 90 percent of all drowning victims were not wearing a life jacket.

* Do not drive your boat at excessive or unsafe speed.
* Make sure to be aware of other boats on the water, but don't forget about water skiers, tubers, jet skiers, and wave runners.
* Do not drink and drive a boat.
* Perform a safety inspection of your boat in order to avoid problems when boating.
* Tell someone on land who is with you on the boat, where you are headed, and how long you expect to be gone.

Last year in Michigan, there were 35 boating deaths reported. Your local sheriff may offer boating safety classes. Please remember to take proper precautions before boating. Following the tips above will lead to a safer boating experience.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by David Mittleman

Lansing Personal Injury Lawyer - boating safety

Saginaw Man's Brush with Death Offers Lessons in Boating Safety

Boating Safety Tips: How To Have A Fun & Safe Summer