The Massapequa Takes Action Coalition is continuing its Boat Smart, Boat Sober initiative to promote safe and responsible boating throughout the community this summer.
As friends and families head out on the water to enjoy the season, MTAC encourages all residents and visitors to help create a safe, fun, and enjoyable boating experience for everyone.
Drinking alcohol or consuming cannabis while boating poses serious health and safety risks that are 100% preventable. In collaboration with the Town of Oyster Bay, MTAC is working to raise awareness about the dangers of boating under the influence and encourage boaters to make safe, responsible decisions while on the water. The initiative aims to reduce boating-related accidents and create safer waterways for everyone.
While boating is a popular summer activity, alcohol and cannabis can significantly impair a person’s ability to safely operate a boat by affecting balance, coordination, reaction time, and judgment — all of which are critical for safe vessel operation. Environmental stressors commonly experienced while boating, including sun glare, heat, vibration, wind, wave motion, and engine noise, may intensify these effects and lead to fatigue more quickly.
Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or cannabis is just as dangerous as driving while impaired. Under New York State law, no person may operate a vessel while impaired or intoxicated by alcohol, cannabis, or illicit drugs. Violators may face heavy fines, imprisonment, and suspension of boating privileges.
MTAC encourages all boaters to designate a sober operator, never allow an impaired individual to operate a vessel, and never provide alcohol or cannabis to anyone under the age of 21. By making smart choices and looking out for one another, everyone can help make this summer’s boating season safe and enjoyable for the entire community.
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Source: LI Press
