Press Release
May 17, 2024
Safe Boating Week Kicks Off Recreational Boating Season
Boaters reminded to be safe and courteous
New regulations for motorized and non-motorized boaters
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (State Parks) is recognizing May 18-24 as National Safe Boating Week, the traditional beginning of the recreational boating season in New York State.
National Safe Boating Week is a campaign sponsored by the National Safe Boating Council and provides an opportunity to spread the message of boating safety and encourage boater education. Throughout the season, boaters are reminded to practice safe and responsible boating, always wear a life jacket, and be alert and aware while on the water.
State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, "Our mission at State Parks is to provide safe and enjoyable recreational opportunities for all New York State residents and visitors – including on our waterways. Please remember to always wear a life jacket and drive sober. The best way to enjoy New York's beautiful lakes and rivers is to do so safely."
State Parks Director of Marine and Recreational Vehicles Alexi Howland said, "There is no better way to enjoy a warm summer day than from a boat, but there are real risks to unsafe operation. I urge all mariners to adhere to our basic safety protocols, including the consistent use of a life jacket and diligent monitoring of weather conditions. It's critical that both boat operators and passengers keep safety in the forefront of their minds as they enjoy the water. Operators at all levels will benefit from taking a safe boating course to refresh their knowledge of the rules of the nautical road and other best practices. It's also important to introduce water safety to our youngest boaters in terms they can understand. Short stories and videos, like New York State Parks' Bodhi Beaver Adventures, can serve as a fun, age-appropriate primer on boating safety."
2024 is the final phase-in period of Brianna's Law. This year, all motorized boat operators born January 1, 1978, or later must take a safe boating course and carry their safe boating certificate with them. As of January 1, 2025, a safe boating certificate will be required of all motorized boat operators, regardless of age. Both classroom and online course options are listed on the New York State Parks website: https://parks.ny.gov/boating/education.aspx
Kayakers and other paddle craft operators are reminded that they are boaters too. In addition to a properly sized US Coast Guard approved life jacket, paddlers must also carry a sound signaling device, such as a whistle, on board. Kayaks can be difficult for larger boats to see. Please stay close to shore, wear bright colors, and consider using reflective paddle stickers or a flag to increase your visibility to other boaters. You can also request FREE reflective paddle stickers by sending a self-addressed, stamped legal size envelope to: NYS Parks Marine Services Bureau Safety Stickers Albany, NY 12238.
Let us navigate the waters responsibly, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all!
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which saw a record 84 million visits in 2023. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer app or call 518.474.0456. Join us in celebrating our Centennial throughout 2024, and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and the OPRHP Blog.