Maryland NRP Stresses Boating Safety Amid Rising Waterway Traffic

Maryland’s Natural Resources Police (NRP) are urging boaters to adhere to the state’s boating laws and safety regulations as waterway activity surges. With increased traffic on Maryland’s rivers, lakes, and coastal areas, it is critical for boaters, paddlers, and swimmers to prioritize their safety.

In 2023, Maryland experienced 123 boating accidents, resulting in 43 injuries and 11 fatalities. Over the past five years, the state has consistently seen double-digit fatal boating accidents, with more than 90 percent of victims not wearing life jackets.

Throughout the boating season, NRP officers will patrol the state’s waterways to enforce safety regulations, including monitoring for unsafe, negligent, and impaired boating practices.

“Keeping people safe on and around the water is one of the most important priorities of the Maryland Natural Resources Police,” stated NRP Superintendent Orlando D. Lilly. “Boating is fun for all ages and a great way to enjoy our state’s natural resources. However, we want to remind boaters to wear a life jacket and refrain from drinking while operating boats or other watercraft to keep yourself and others safe.”

Boaters are advised to take the following precautions to ensure their safety:

• Wear a Properly Fitted Life Jacket: All boaters should wear life jackets that fit properly. It is mandatory for children under the age of 13 to wear a life jacket on boats less than 21 feet long.
• Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol consumption is a leading cause of recreational boating deaths, impairing judgment, reaction time, balance, and vision. Designate a “sober skipper” who remains sober while operating the vessel.
• Follow Navigation Rules: Adhere to speed and navigation rules to prevent accidents.
• Avoid Bow Riding: Riding on the edge of a moving boat is illegal and dangerous. Always stay inside the boat.

Superintendent Lilly emphasized the importance of wearing life jackets and avoiding alcohol while boating, as these measures significantly enhance safety on the water.

To further promote boating safety, NRP provides several key tips:

1. Life Jackets: Ensure all passengers have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Children under 13 must wear life jackets on boats shorter than 21 feet.
2. File a Float Plan: Inform a family member or friend of your trip details in case of an emergency.
3. Safety Equipment: Carry required safety equipment, including flares, a fire extinguisher, a horn or whistle, and a throwable life preserver.
4. Check Equipment: Verify that fire extinguishers are charged and flares are not expired.
5. Avoid Impairment: Never boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
6. Monitor Weather: Check the weather forecast before departure and remain alert for changing conditions.
7. Communication Devices: Keep a charged cell phone or marine VHF radio accessible.
8. Boating Safety Certificate: Individuals born after July 1, 1972, must possess a boating safety education certificate to operate a Maryland-registered vessel.

Boaters can find more information on safe boating practices on the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website, available in both English and Spanish.

NRP officers are committed to maintaining safety on Maryland’s waterways by enforcing regulations and providing education to the public. The rise in waterway activities highlights the need for increased vigilance and adherence to safety protocols.