With more than 580 miles of coastline and 35 miles of sandy beaches, it is no wonder that Pinellas County attracts millions of visitors each year. Many of our residents and guests take full advantage of our sunny weather and our close proximity to the water by boating or operating personal watercraft. That means our waterways and boat ramps have the potential to become very crowded places that require patience. Deputies assigned to the Marine Enforcement Unit and the Environmental Lands Unit patrol many Pinellas County waterways and lakes. Most people take the responsibility of operating their vessel quite seriously, however others do not. The biggest single complaint received by marine enforcement deputies is about personal watercraft. Pinellas County deputies made nearly 250 arrests, and issued almost 1,000 boating citations last year. An additional 3,600 warnings were given for less serious violations. Deputies also investigated nearly 50 marine accidents, which were serious enough that a written report was required. Many of these accidents involved alcohol, and/or the careless operation of a vessel, and some involved serious injury. For some operators, problems began before they even launched their boats. For this reason trailers and coupling devices should be properly maintained, and special care should be used while towing. Preparation, courtesy, and patience are all important attributes at crowded boat ramps, or anyplace where launching operations take place. It is also important to file a float plan and to know your vessel's capabilities before launching. Failure to do so could result in tragedy. Once underway, every operator should adhere to basic navigation rules. Keep in mind that most accidents can be avoided by practicing good seamanship, keeping a proper lookout and by maintaining a safe speed. Personal watercraft operators should remain particularly aware of other boat traffic and avoid jumping wakes or entering swim areas. I would like to take this opportunity to encourage anyone who operates a boat or personal watercraft to do so safely and in accordance with Florida Boating Regulations. Safe boating courses are recommended for new boaters, and they are required for anyone under the age of twenty-one. These courses are offered at many locations in the Tampa Bay area, by mail, and even through the Internet. For additional suggestions regarding the safe operations of boats or personal watercraft please contact the Sheriff's Office Marine Enforcement Unit at (727) 582-3434. |