DATE: May 31, 2009 11:24:14 AM PDT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Coast Guard, partner agencies participate in Delta boating safety event
Photo and video release
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Eleventh Coast Guard District |
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| NEWS RELEASE |
DATE: CONTACT: |
May 31, 2009 Petty Officer Erik Swanson (510) 772-8865 |
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Coast Guard, partner agencies participate in Delta boating safety event |
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Delta Blitz I is the first of several on and offshore boating safety efforts aimed at eliminating the escalating number of recreational boating accidents and fatalities in the Bay Area Delta Region. Coast Guard water and air units, joined by law enforcement officials from Contra Costa, Solano, San Joaquin and Sacramento counties, also patrolled approximately 25 square miles of the Delta Region Saturday. The California Department of Fish & Game, the California Highway Patrol and Suisun Police Department also participated in the event. Boaters on the water, throughout the Delta, can expect on-the-water enforcement of all applicable laws and regulations throughout the weekend, and safe-boating tips and reminders. In addition, complimentary vessel safety checks are available at the Discovery Bay Marina and at the Orwood Resort. This weekend is typically one of the most intense and concentrated boating weekends of the year. Known as a haven for thousands of California boaters annually, the Delta Region is considered one of the state’s “hot spots” in terms of water recreation, according to the California Department of Boating and Waterways. Coast Guard boating statistics show that the overall number of boating-related deaths in recent years fell in California; however, the number of boating accidents has grown. The most common causes of boating accidents include intoxication, careless or reckless operation, passenger behavior and excessive speed. The Coast Guard reminds boaters to file a float plan prior to getting underway and equip their vessels with a VHF marine radio and flares. Cell phones are typically unreliable to contact emergency services while operating a vessel on the water. There should be a personal flotation device on the vessel for each person, sized accordingly. Children under the age of 13 are required by law to wear a lifejacket. It is against the law for anyone to operate a vessel under the influence of alcohol. Consumption of alcohol by anyone else aboard is also strongly discouraged. For a free vessel safety inspection, contact your local Coast Guard Auxiliary or got to http://www.cgaux.org/ for more information. Video of Delta Blitz operations ### |
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